A Look Back at Christmas in the 1980s: Toys, TV and Tinsel – Nostalgic Fun for All Ages

There’s something wonderfully warm about looking back at Christmas in the 1980s. It was a decade of bright colours, big hair, iconic telly, and toys that still spark joy today.

 For many, an ’80s Christmas was a magical mix of simple pleasures and glittering excess – tinsel everywhere, festive jumpers knitted by nan, and the unmistakable sound of Wham! on the radio. 

If you’re craving a little nostalgia or want to share some retro fun with the next generation, here’s a cheerful look at the decade that shaped so many of our festive memories.

The Toys That Defined an Era

Christmas mornings in the ’80s often meant tearing open wrapping paper to reveal one of the decade’s must-have toys. A few favourites still raise a smile today:

Transformers and Action Figures

Robots that transformed into cars and planes were the height of cool. Paired with Star Wars figures, Masters of the Universe, and G.I. Joe, kids could recreate their favourite film and cartoon moments long after the Queen’s Speech.

Cabbage Patch Kids

These quirky, slightly odd-looking dolls caused a frenzy. Each one had its own name and adoption certificate, making them feel extra special – and incredibly hard to find some years.

Rubik’s Cube

Whether you solved it properly, peeled the stickers off, or resorted to creative “methods”, the Cube was the stocking filler that frustrated and fascinated everyone.

Big Wheels, BMXs and Skateboards

The ’80s kicked off the era of the cool kid on wheels. Bikes and skateboards under the tree meant Boxing Day was spent outside, showing off new tricks. Or scraped knees...

Handheld Electronic Games

Before smartphones, there were beeping, chunky handheld games with simple graphics but endless appeal. Game & Watch, Simon, and battery-hungry devices were prized treasures.

Christmas Telly We Still Talk About

Back when there were only a handful of channels and no streaming, Christmas TV was a communal experience. Families gathered around the set, fighting for the best seat and the last of the chocolates.

The Big Films

Holiday schedules often featured classics like The Wizard of Oz, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, and Bond films. If a blockbuster was on, everyone watched it.

Festive Specials

From Only Fools and Horses to The Two Ronnies, Christmas specials became iconic, and many remain firm favourites. The 1986 episode of Bread, the memorable Morecambe & Wise reruns, and the annual Top of the Pops Christmas Day show helped set the festive mood.

Children’s TV

Younger viewers were treated to The Snowman, Bagpuss, Worzel Gummidge, and a seasonal episode of Blue Peter, often featuring that year’s famous Advent crown (health and safety nightmare and all).

Decorations, Tinsel and Retro Sparkle

You couldn’t walk into a living room in the 1980s without being blinded by glitter. Decorations were bold, bright, and completely unapologetic.

Tinsel Everywhere

Not just on the tree – along mantelpieces, wrapped around the banister, and even on lampshades. More was definitely more.

Coloured Fairy Lights

Before today’s sleek white LEDs, it was all about chunky coloured bulbs that got warm enough to toast a marshmallow. And if one bulb went out, the whole string failed. Classic.

Shiny Baubles and Paper Chains

Foil garlands, homemade Christmas paper chains, and those honeycomb tissue-paper bells brought instant cheer to any home.

The Tree Topper Debate

Star or fairy? Every family had a tradition – often one passed down or slightly battered from years of use.

Festive Food and Family Traditions

No ’80s Christmas was complete without the tastes and treats of the season.

Terry’s Chocolate Orange, After Eight mints, and Cadbury Roses (in the original tins!) were shared around – or hidden away by adults.

Home-made sausage rolls, trifle, and Vol-au-vents made starring appearances at the buffet table.

Sherry and Babycham added a festive sparkle, while children clinked glasses with Schweppes Snowball or Shloer.

And of course, the annual board games evening brought out Cluedo, Monopoly, and Trivial Pursuit – along with some family squabbles.

Why ’80s Christmas Still Charms Us

The 1980s captured a particular kind of magic – one shaped by shared experiences, simpler technology, and a sense of collective celebration. Looking back reminds us of the excitement of circling items in catalogues, watching the TV guide with anticipation, and spending the day together without the distraction of devices.

Whether you lived through it or have simply fallen in love with the retro aesthetic, revisiting an ’80s Christmas brings back the joy of wide-eyed wonder, colourful decorations, and the timeless feeling that anything could be wrapped up under the tree.

If you fancy a truly nostalgic festive season, try bringing back a few retro touches this year – a tinsel-heavy tree, a classic board game, or an old-school Christmas film night. After all, Christmas is about joy, connection and making memories, no matter the decade.

Choosing a Bedroom TV as a Christmas Present for Children and Teens

Finding the perfect Christmas present for children and teenagers can be tricky. 

Toys often lose their appeal as kids grow older, while clothes and gadgets can feel a little too practical. 

One gift idea that bridges the gap between fun and functional is a bedroom television.

A TV can transform a bedroom into a personal entertainment space, giving children and teens a spot to relax, watch their favourite shows, or play games. 

But with so many models on the market, how do you choose the right one?

Consider the Size

Bigger isn’t always better in a bedroom setting. A 24–32 inch TV is usually ideal for most children’s and teens’ rooms. It provides a clear picture without dominating the space. For older teens with larger rooms, a 40-inch set could work well, but make sure it won’t overwhelm their space.

Think About Smart Features

Most televisions today come with smart capabilities, meaning they can connect to apps like Netflix, Disney+, YouTube, and BBC iPlayer. For teens especially, a smart TV is a must-have, giving them instant access to their favourite content without needing extra devices.

Safety First

If you’re buying for younger children, consider how the TV will be set up. Wall-mounting can save space and keep screens safely out of reach. Look for parental controls too, which allow you to manage what they can access. But if you do, make sure wall-mounting brackets are put up by a trained and insured professional craftsman/woman. 

Gaming Compatibility

If the teen in your life is a gamer, check that the TV supports consoles like PlayStation, Xbox, or Nintendo Switch. Look out for HDMI ports, low input lag, and full HD or 4K resolution to keep gameplay smooth and immersive.

Energy Efficiency

Since the TV may be used often, choosing a model with a good energy efficiency rating will help reduce electricity costs and environmental impact.

Setting Boundaries

A TV in the bedroom can be a wonderful gift, but it’s also important to set some ground rules. Agree on screen time limits to balance entertainment with homework, sleep, and family time.

Wrapping It Up

A bedroom television makes a thoughtful Christmas gift because it combines practicality with fun. Whether your child is still enchanted by cartoons or your teen is bingeing the latest box set, the right TV will be a gift they’ll appreciate well into the new year.

This Christmas, give them the gift of entertainment, independence, and comfort — all in one neat package.

The Problems with Amazon Firesticks This Christmas

As Christmas approaches, many households are preparing for cosy movie nights and festive binge-watching sessions. 

The Amazon Firestick, a popular streaming device, often tops the list of tech gifts or essential gadgets for the season. 

However, while the Firestick is a handy tool for accessing streaming platforms, this Christmas, several users are encountering issues that could dampen the festive spirit. 

Let’s explore some of the common problems and potential solutions.

1. Overheating Issues

One of the most reported problems this year is Firesticks overheating during extended use. With families gathering around for movie marathons, the Firestick’s compact design struggles to handle prolonged streaming, leading to performance drops or unexpected shutdowns. Overheating can also shorten the device’s lifespan, making it less reliable over time.

Solution: Ensure the Firestick is plugged into a well-ventilated area. Avoid using it for hours on end without breaks. If overheating persists, consider investing in a cooling accessory or contacting Amazon for support.

2. Wi-Fi Connectivity Problems

With multiple devices competing for bandwidth in busy households, Firesticks are frequently experiencing buffering or connection drops. This can be especially frustrating when trying to stream a festive favourite in high-definition.

Solution: Position your router closer to the TV or use a Wi-Fi extender. Alternatively, connect the Firestick to your network via an Ethernet adapter for a more stable connection.

3. App Crashes and Freezing

Many users are reporting that apps like Netflix, Disney+, or Prime Video are crashing unexpectedly or freezing during playback. This issue can stem from outdated software, insufficient storage, or compatibility problems with the latest app updates.

Solution: Regularly check for software updates on the Firestick and clear the cache of individual apps. If storage is an issue, uninstall unused apps to free up space.

4. Remote Control Woes

The Firestick remote is notorious for being temperamental. This Christmas, many users are finding their remotes unresponsive, with issues ranging from battery drain to connectivity problems.

Solution: Replace the batteries with fresh ones and ensure they are inserted correctly. If the remote still doesn’t work, try resetting it by holding down the Home button for 10 seconds. Alternatively, download the Fire TV app to use your smartphone as a remote.

5. Limited 4K Streaming

Despite being marketed as a 4K device, some Firestick users are struggling to stream content in ultra-high definition. This issue is often due to compatibility issues with certain TVs or internet speeds that fall short of 4K requirements.

Solution: Verify that your TV supports 4K and ensure your internet speed is at least 25 Mbps. Check the settings on both the Firestick and streaming apps to enable 4K playback.

6. Power Supply Problems

Many users are finding that their Firesticks don’t turn on or frequently restart. This is often due to insufficient power from the TV’s USB port or a faulty power adapter.

Solution: Always use the power adapter provided by Amazon rather than relying on the TV’s USB port. If the adapter is faulty, contact Amazon for a replacement.

7. Increased Ads and Promotions

Another common complaint this Christmas is the sheer volume of ads and promotional content on the Firestick interface. While Amazon uses this space to promote its content, it can feel intrusive and detract from the user experience.

Solution: Unfortunately, there’s no way to completely remove ads from the Firestick interface. However, you can reduce their impact by customising your home screen to prioritise your favourite apps.

Final Thoughts

While the Amazon Firestick remains a popular choice for streaming, these issues highlight the importance of troubleshooting and preparation to avoid disruptions during the festive season. If you’re planning to gift a Firestick or use one for your holiday entertainment, take some time to address potential problems in advance.

If these issues persist, it might be worth exploring alternative streaming devices such as Roku or Google Chromecast, which may offer a more seamless experience. After all, Christmas is about enjoying time with loved ones, not wrestling with technology!

Choosing the Best Broadband Provider for Your Home This Christmas

As the festive season approaches, many of us will be spending more time at home, streaming Christmas films, video calling loved ones, or shopping for the perfect gifts online. 

The last thing you want is a slow or unreliable broadband connection interrupting your holiday plans. With that in mind, now is the perfect time to reassess your broadband provider to ensure you're set up for a seamless digital experience this Christmas.

Here’s a guide to help you choose the best broadband provider for your home this festive season.

1. Assess Your Internet Needs

Before diving into the numerous broadband deals that pop up in the run-up to Christmas, it’s essential to consider what your household’s needs are. Factors to consider include:

How many devices are connected? If you’ve got several people streaming videos, gaming, and working from home, you’ll need a high-speed, reliable connection.

How much data do you use? Heavy internet users should prioritise an unlimited data package to avoid any unpleasant surprises when the bill arrives.

What’s the primary purpose of your broadband? If it’s mostly for casual browsing and streaming the odd programme, you might not need the fastest speeds available. However, if you're gaming, streaming 4K content, or using smart home devices, higher speeds will be necessary.

2. Compare Broadband Speeds

Speed is often the first thing people look for when choosing a broadband provider. While faster speeds are always better, not every household requires the highest packages available. Be realistic about your needs:

Standard Broadband (ADSL): This is suitable for lighter internet users, typically with download speeds of up to 24Mbps.

Fibre Broadband: With speeds from 35Mbps to 1Gbps, fibre optic broadband is perfect for larger households and heavy internet users.

Full Fibre (FTTP): This is the fastest option, with speeds going beyond 1Gbps, ideal for those who want future-proof broadband or are heavily reliant on the internet.

3. Check Availability in Your Area

Not all broadband providers and packages are available nationwide, especially when it comes to full fibre services. Use comparison tools or the provider’s website to check availability based on your postcode. Some areas may be limited to slower, standard broadband, while others will have access to faster fibre services.

4. Look for Christmas Offers

Christmas is an excellent time to find broadband deals, as many providers offer discounts or bundled deals to attract new customers. You may find offers such as:

Reduced prices for the first few months of your contract.

No setup fees, saving you upfront costs.

Bundled deals with phone or TV packages.

Freebies like streaming service subscriptions or vouchers.

It’s worth keeping an eye out for these seasonal promotions, but be sure to check the full terms and conditions. Sometimes prices rise after the introductory period, so factor in the long-term cost too.

5. Consider Contract Length

Most broadband deals tie you into a contract, usually between 12 and 24 months. While longer contracts can offer better pricing, be sure to check if you’re happy with the service over the long term. Some providers offer more flexibility with shorter contracts or no-contract options, although these often come at a higher monthly cost.

If you're planning to move house in the near future, or you're not sure about your current provider’s quality, it might be worth avoiding long-term commitments.

6. Customer Service and Reliability

The festive period is the worst time to be left without internet, so choosing a provider with reliable service and strong customer support is crucial. Look at customer reviews and ratings, especially focusing on:

Speed of repairs: How quickly they can fix issues.

Customer support: Availability and helpfulness of their support team.

Uptime guarantees: Does the provider offer compensation if there are outages?

Some of the UK’s best-rated broadband providers in terms of customer service include Zen Internet and BT, though others like Sky and Virgin Media offer solid options as well.

7. Consider Bundle Deals

If your home uses TV services or landline phones, a broadband bundle could be the perfect choice. Many providers, such as Sky, BT, and Virgin Media, offer attractive packages that combine broadband with digital TV and phone services. This can save money and simplify billing by consolidating your services under one provider.

8. Don’t Forget Hidden Costs

When comparing broadband deals, be sure to factor in additional costs. These could include setup or activation fees, router delivery charges, or line rental costs. Some providers advertise low monthly rates but have higher upfront fees, so always check the total cost over the length of the contract.

Final Thoughts

The right broadband provider can make your Christmas more enjoyable, keeping you connected with family and friends while allowing for uninterrupted streaming and online shopping. Consider your household’s internet usage, compare the speeds and offers available in your area, and take advantage of any Christmas promotions. With a little research, you’ll find the perfect broadband deal in time to sit back, relax, and enjoy the festive season.

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https://www.moneysupermarket.com/broadband

https://www.broadband.co.uk/broadband

https://www.confused.com

https://www.gocompare.com/broadband