How to Host a “Late Christmas” Weekend in February

Because Life and Poor Health Got in the Way. This is what That’s Christmas 365 is doing!

Christmas doesn’t stop being Christmas just because the calendar has moved on. 

If December was taken over by illness, exhaustion or simply trying to cope, a Late Christmas weekend in February can be a surprisingly perfect way to reclaim the season, gently, calmly, and without pressure.

Here’s how to do it the That’s Christmas 365 way.

1. Redefine Christmas (No Rules This Time)

This isn’t about recreating a full-on 25 December. Late Christmas is about comfort over perfection.

Strip it back to what actually matters:

Familiar food

Warm lighting

Shared moments

Plenty of rest

If health has been fragile, this version of Christmas should support you, not drain you.

2. Make It a Weekend, Not a Marathon

A February Christmas works best when it unfolds... slowly.

Friday: low-effort food, fairy lights on, early night

Saturday: festive meal, gifts, films, naps

Sunday: leftovers, pyjamas, zero obligations

Rest isn’t a failure – it’s part of the plan.

3. Keep Decorations Simple and Soothing

You don’t need the full loft clear-out.

Think:

Fairy lights on shelves or windows, LED tealights 

A small tabletop tree or branch

Candles and winter greenery

One or two decorations that spark joy

In the depths of winter, a little Christmas glow feels especially welcome.

4. Serve Comfort-First Festive Food

Late Christmas food should be easy, forgiving and familiar.

Good options include:

A smaller roast or slow-cooker main

Turkey crown, chicken or even sausages and stuffing

One or two favourite sides

Shop-bought desserts or freezer puds

Frozen roasties, ready-made gravy and leftovers are all completely valid.

5. Keep Gifts Thoughtful, Not Overwhelming

This isn’t about quantity.

A Late Christmas suits:

One meaningful gift each

Santa's on holiday, whilst you enjoy Christmas 

Comfort items (books, blankets, pyjamas, slippers)

Experiences to enjoy later in the year

Even handwritten notes instead of presents

The moment matters more than the wrapping.

6. Bring Back the Christmas Feeling

A few small touches go a long way:

Soft Christmas music in the background

One or two favourite festive films (For us, it's the 1951 A Christmas Carol, perhaps followed by the 1984 version)

Proper mugs, cosy blankets and festive pyjamas

You may be surprised how quickly the feeling returns once you allow it.

7. Let Go of the Guilt

If poor health delayed Christmas, that wasn’t a failure – it was survival.

A February Christmas isn’t indulgent or silly.

It’s kind.

You’re allowed to celebrate when you’re finally well enough to enjoy it.

Final Thoughts

Christmas is a feeling, not a date.

If December was about getting through the days, February can be about warmth, calm and reclaiming joy – quietly, gently, and entirely on your own terms.

And honestly? That feels very That’s Christmas 365!