Independent Cardiff pub North Star to close on New Year’s Eve

North Star, the be-loved independent community pub located at 131 North Road, Cardiff, CF14 3AE, has today announced it will close its doors permanently on New Year’s Eve, 31 December 2025. 

The closure brings to an end more than five years of trading under the North Star name, following its opening in August 2020, and marks the end of a pub site that has served Cardiff for well over a century. 

Despite extensive efforts to continue trading, rising costs and cost-of-living pressures have forced the closure of a much-loved independent Cardiff pub. The owners describe the decision as unavoidable in the current economic climate. 

Owner Tom Edwards told That's Christmas 365: “This is without question the hardest decision we’ve ever had to make, and it’s not what we wanted. We’ve explored every possible option to keep North Star going, but in the current climate we feel this is the only responsible choice left to us.” 

North Star has been one of the few truly independent pubs in the area, not owned or leased by a brewery. Since opening, it has built a reputation as a strong community pub and a safe, welcoming space for all, particularly for students, local residents, creatives and musicians. 

“North Star has never just been a pub, it’s been a community,” Tom Edwards added. 

The venue became best known for its Sunday roasts and food offering, quiz nights, karaoke, and for supporting local independent music, while also providing a consistent, inclusive space for people to gather. 

Manager David Rowlands said: “We’re immensely proud of what this pub has stood for. This place meant something to people, and that’s what hurts the most.”

A historic pub site on North Road 

The building at 131 North Road has a long and continuous history as a public house. 

Originally established as the Maindy Hotel, the site received its first provisional licence in October 1888, meaning it has operated as a pub for over 135 years. 

Over the decades, the venue has been known by several names, including the Maindy Hotel and later The College Tavern, before becoming North Star in 2020. 

“From the Maindy Hotel to the College Tavern to North Star, this building has always been a place for people.” 

The site’s longstanding role as a community gathering place — spanning generations of locals, students and visitors — underscores why its closure is more than the loss of a single business; it marks the end of a century-plus chapter in Cardiff’s social history. 

“This isn’t just the loss of a business,  it’s the end of a pub site that’s served Cardiff for more than a century.” 

Recognition and local profile 

North Star has consistently been recognised for its role within Cardiff’s social and hospitality scene: 

● WalesOnline has previously described North Star as a “Cardiff institution adored by students and locals alike.” 

● The Cardiff Tab has reported on North Star’s financial pressures, highlighting the venue’s importance to the student and local community. 

● The pub holds a 4.9/5 rating on Tripadvisor from over one hundred reviews, with consistent praise for its food, atmosphere and Sunday roasts. 

● North Star has been name-checked in wider Cardiff food commentary connected to coverage by respected food critic Jay Rayner, placing it among the city’s notable independent venues. 

● The venue was also highlighted in national press such as the Mirror, in coverage of broader hospitality challenges, demonstrating its relevance and resonance beyond Cardiff. 

The pub will continue trading through the festive period, with New Year’s Eve marking its final night of service. Customers are invited to join the team for a final send-off. 

Revealed: the top 10 ‘cosiest pubs’ for Christmas

Experience the warmest and most inviting spots to celebrate the festive season

With Christmas fast approaching, there’s no better time to escape the winter chill and retreat to a welcoming pub for festive cheer with loved ones.

Nothing compares to settling into a snug corner beside the Christmas tree, basking in the glow of a crackling fire, and enjoying a well-earned pint. But where are the best boozers to indulge in a festive tipple?

Eat Drink Meet, a website and app that helps users discover nearby pubs, bars, and restaurants, has unveiled its list of the cosiest pubs across the UK this festive season. https://www.eatdrinkmeet.co.uk

Carefully selected from thousands of venues by Eat Drink Meet’s expert curators, these top pubs go the extra mile to deliver an unforgettable festive experience at Christmas time.

1. The Coal Hole, London

Nestled in the heart of London’s city centre, the Coal Hole is a historic pub brimming with yuletide charm and a fascinating past.

Situated in the iconic Savoy Court on the Strand, this Grade II listed pub has been spreading seasonal cheer since 1903. It was designed by the renowned architect T. E. Collcutt and exudes historical charm.

Throughout the years, the Coal Hole on the Strand has welcomed famous faces, including Victorian musical composers Gilbert and Sullivan. With its rich history and prime location near the historic Savoy Hotel, the Coal Hole offers a magical authentic British dining and drinking experience perfect for the holiday season.

This year’s Christmas menu at the pub offers traditional favourites including hand-carved turkey with all the trimmings and a festive nut roast – plus, more unique options including a pan-roasted salmon fillet and dark chocolate truffle torte to finish. https://www.nicholsonspubs.co.uk/restaurants/london/thecoalholestrandlondon

2. The Sandpiper, Ormskirk

Found in the picturesque winter wonderland town of Bickerstaffe, The Sandpiper is a charming country pub that can offer magical views over the snow-dusted countryside.

This pub offers guests a delightful dining experience in a beautifully converted farmhouse setting. With its warm, welcoming atmosphere glowing with festive cheer, this enchanting pub seamlessly combines cherished Christmas traditions with the cosy seasonal comforts you know and love.

Indulge in a festive menu brimming with delicious delights, including an apple and mince pie crumble or a traditional cheese board, perfectly complemented by a well-stocked bar including cask ales, fine wines, and a selection of British gin. The Sandpiper is the perfect destination for celebrating the magic of the festive season, where every visit feels like you’re returning home for the celebrations. https://www.vintageinn.co.uk/restaurants/north-west/thesandpiperbickerstaffe#/

3. The Black Bull, Liverpool

Just a short sleigh ride from Liverpool City Centre, The Black Bull is commended as a perfect winter pub for festive celebrations and heartwarming gatherings. After a bustling day of Christmas shopping in the city, there's nowhere better to rest your weary feet and soak up the seasonal cheer.

Whether you're hosting a Christmas party, meeting up with friends by the fireside, or treating your nearest and dearest to a sumptuous festive feast, The Black Bull has something to make everyone's Christmas extra special this year. The pub is also dog-friendly too, so even your four-legged friends can join in the yuletide joy.

With specially crafted festive menus for Christmas Day dinner, Boxing Day, and New Year's Eve including interesting twists on Christmas classics such as a camembert and bacon stack burger and turkey and pancetta pie, the celebrations don't have to end when the big day is over. Guests can still toast to good times, great food, and unforgettable memories. https://www.emberinns.co.uk/nationalsearch/northwest/the-black-bull-liverpool#/

4. The Glover Arms, Huntingtower Park  

Discover the charm of The Glover Arms in Perth, a delightful country pub where cherished traditions meet the warmth of the festive season. Only a stone’s throw from the historic Huntingtower Castle, the pub offers guests an unforgettable winter dining experience, donned with Christmas trees and carefully chosen decorations.

Here, you can indulge in a range of hearty pub favourites and comforting country pub classics from The Glover Arms carefully crafted festive menus, including the Christmas and Boxing Day menus. Plus, the pub is hosting ‘breakfast with Santa’ experiences – the perfect way for the little ones to enjoy Christmas cheer.

It’s time to cosy up beside the crackling log fires with loved ones and indulge in a drink or two from the well-stocked bar. Visit The Glover Arms this Christmas season and immerse yourself in the warmth of the festive spirit at this charming country pub.

5. The Travellers Rest, Caerphilly

Nestled in the enchanting small town of Thornhill, The Travellers Rest is a historic country pub that has been spreading warmth, cheer and Christmas magic since the 1800s.

Throughout its storied history, this beloved pub has been the heart of the community, even keeping the festive spirit alive during the Second World War under the steadfast management of Mr George Lightfoot.

This Christmas, step into a festive wonderland and indulge in the pub’s seasonal menus brimming with chef classics and festive twists that capture the true taste of the season, including hand-carved turkey breast, root vegetable wellington and sticky toffee Christmas pudding.

Whether you're gathering with loved ones for a memorable Christmas feast, unwinding with a pint by the crackling hearth after a ramble around the Caerphilly mountain, or simply soaking up the cosy hospitality, The Traveller's Rest is your perfect winter retreat.

This pub also earned points for being really dog-friendly, so punters can enjoy the festive atmosphere with their four-legged friends by their side. https://www.vintageinn.co.uk/restaurants/wales/thetravellersrestcaerphilly#/

6. The Old Cottage, Cardiff  

The Old Cottage is a dog-friendly country pub based in the charming area of Lisvane, in South Glamorgan.

With its beautiful, cosy winter views of the Welsh countryside, it’s the perfect place to indulge with loved ones this festive period. The Old Cottage invites guests to experience its luxurious country pub charm this Christmas, where crackling fires give respite from the winter chill and decorations adorn every corner.

Whether you're planning an intimate family dinner or a joyous large group celebration, The Old Cottage will make your Christmas gatherings truly magical and memorable. https://www.oldcottagecardiff.co.uk

7. The Sheep Heid Inn, Edinburgh

Located on the outskirts of Edinburgh, and not far from the world-famous Arthur’s Seat, Duddingston Loch and Edinburgh Castle, The Sheep Heid Inn is a Christmas card come to life.

As one of Edinburgh's oldest and most beloved pubs, it has welcomed everyone from monarchs to poets over the centuries. Nowadays, the pub extends its cosy embrace to all this festive season, even four-legged guests.

Enjoy an extensive range of real ales, lagers, and wines, and tuck into delicious Christmas inspired dishes including port and cheddar mushrooms, pan roasted salmon and festive crème brûlée.

The Sheep Heid is perfect for creating Christmas memories with family and this festive season, where history, hospitality and Christmas sparkle come together. https://www.thesheepheidedinburgh.co.uk/#/

8. Bacchus Bar, Birmingham  

Looking for somewhere unusual to celebrate Christmas this year? Then look no further than Bacchus Bar in the heart of Birmingham, ranked one of the best by Eat Drink Meet and hidden beneath the city’s iconic Christmas markets.

Dubbed ‘Harry Potter-style’, the bar is one of Birmingham’s oldest pubs with an eclectic mix of themed rooms, which makes it a magical setting for all your festive celebrations this winter. Located beneath the Burlington Arcade on one of the city’s oldest streets, the Bacchus Bar offers guests an extraordinary Christmas experience. Step inside and be transported to a winter wonderland of enchantment as you explore the pub’s rooms, each with its own captivating character and adorned with seasonal touches.

From stunning Greek and Roman mosaics to atmospheric medieval archways, and impressive suits of armour, the pub’s remarkable underground interiors will make it a festive experience you and your guests won’t forget.

Whether you’re looking to celebrate with colleagues, host an unforgettable Christmas dinner with family, or just enjoy a mulled wine in a pub unlike any other in the city, Bacchus Bar provides a captivating choice this Christmas. https://www.nicholsonspubs.co.uk/restaurants/eastandwestmidlands/bacchusbarbirmingham?

9. The White Lion, Allesley

Nestled in the enchanting countryside setting of Allesley, The White Lion has been welcoming guests with warmth and heartfelt hospitality since 1835.

Originally a family home and village shop, this charming pub now offers guests a cosy, country haven perfect for festivities. Whether you're exchanging gifts with friends beside the crackling fireplace, enjoying a leisurely Christmas meal without the washing up afterwards, or simply seeking refuge from the winter chill, The White Lion wraps you in comfort and Christmas cheer.

Step inside and you'll find exposed timber beams adorned with Christmas decorations, their timeworn character providing a magical backdrop to your festive celebrations.

The White Lion sits in the heart of a picturesque conservation area surrounded by a network of scenic rural footpaths, making it perfect for a brisk winter walk to work up an appetite before settling in by the fire. The White Lion is a hidden gem worth discovering when you need a break from your busy Christmas shopping. https://www.vintageinn.co.uk/restaurants/midlands/thewhitelionallesley

10. Old Bull and Bush Hampstead

The Old Bull & Bush is a stylish, dog-friendly pub nestled in the heart of North London, where Christmas cheer meets idyllic views of North Hampstead's winter wonderland.

The pub also offers a number of festive menus with a range of Christmas classics and seasonal twists such as chicken, leek and Davidstow cheddar pie, 12oz pork tomahawk and Christmas pudding.  All of which can be washed down with a carefully curated selection of warming tipples, from real ales and crisp lagers to fine wines and winter cocktails.

It's the perfect spot to unwind after a busy day of Christmas shopping or after a winter walk on Hampstead Heath, all wrapped up in the cosy atmosphere of the pub’s stylish, fire-warmed interiors. https://www.thebullandbush.co.uk

Whether you’re looking to warm up by the fire after exploring the winter countryside, or for a delicious yuletide meal with loved ones, these cosy Christmas pubs offer the perfect setting for a festive season you’ll remember for years to come.

A Christmas Warning: Preventing Food Poisoning at Home and in Catering Kitchens

A warning for homes and businesses on food safety, highlighting how food poisoning outbreaks can cause ill health and misery at Christmastime.

Christmas is a time of abundance. Packed fridges, overflowing ovens, buffet tables groaning under the weight of turkey, stuffing, pigs in blankets and trifle. It’s also, unfortunately, a time when cases of food poisoning spike sharply across the UK.

Whether you’re cooking at home for family and friends, or serving food professionally in a pub, restaurant, care home or events venue, Christmas meals must be prepared with care. One poorly handled dish can turn festive cheer into days of illness – or worse.

Why Christmas Is a High-Risk Time for Food Poisoning

The festive period creates a perfect storm for food safety problems:

Large volumes of food prepared in advance

Fridges overfilled and struggling to stay cold

Cooked food left out for long periods

People reheating leftovers multiple times

Temporary or seasonal catering staff under pressure

Add alcohol, distractions, late nights and “it’ll be fine” attitudes, and mistakes become far more likely.

Common Christmas-related outbreaks are linked to salmonella, campylobacter, E. coli, and listeria – all of which can cause serious illness, particularly in older people, young children, pregnant women and those with weakened immune systems.

At Home: Festive Food Safety Essentials

1. Turkey Must Be Fully Cooked

Undercooked poultry is one of the biggest Christmas dangers.

Ensure the thickest part of the bird reaches at least 75°C

Juices should run clear, not pink

If in doubt, cook longer – resting time does not finish cooking

Stuffing should ideally be cooked separately to reduce risk.

2. Don’t Overcrowd the Fridge

A packed fridge cannot cool properly.

Raw meat must be kept on the bottom shelf

Leftovers should cool quickly and be refrigerated within two hours

Fridge temperature should be 5°C or below

If necessary, prioritise food safety over drinks storage.

3. Reheating Means Piping Hot

Leftovers are a Christmas joy – but only if handled correctly.

Reheat food once only

Ensure it’s piping hot all the way through

Never reheat turkey more than once

If something smells off or looks questionable, it’s not worth the risk.

4. Hands, Surfaces and Utensils Matter

Festive cooking often involves multiple people in the kitchen.

Wash hands thoroughly before and after handling food

Use separate boards for raw meat and ready-to-eat foods

Clean surfaces regularly, especially during long cooking sessions

“Christmas germs” are not festive – they spread fast.

For Catering Establishments: No Festive Exceptions

Professional kitchens carry a legal and moral responsibility to protect customers.

1. Pressure Is Not an Excuse

Busy Christmas services increase risk, but safety standards must never slip.

HACCP procedures must be followed at all times

Temperature logs must be accurate and up to date

Hot holding and cold storage must remain within safe limits

2. Temporary Staff Need Proper Training

Seasonal workers are common in December.

Food hygiene training must be provided

Supervision is essential, especially during peak services

“Learning on the job” is not acceptable where safety is concerned

3. Vulnerable Diners Must Be Protected

Care homes, hospitals, schools and Christmas community meals must take extra care.

Avoid high-risk foods such as unpasteurised cheeses

Ensure allergen information is clear and accurate

Maintain strict hygiene during buffet and self-service meals

An outbreak linked to a Christmas event can have devastating consequences.

Food Poisoning Isn’t “Just a Stomach Bug”

Foodborne illness can lead to:

Severe dehydration

Hospitalisation

Long-term digestive problems

In extreme cases, death

At Christmas, when NHS services are already stretched, preventable illness places additional strain on an already pressured system.

A Safer Christmas Is Everyone’s Responsibility

Christmas food should bring people together, not send them home ill.

By taking simple, sensible precautions, at home and professionally, too, we can ensure that festive meals are remembered for the right reasons: laughter, warmth, and good food safely enjoyed.

Because no one wants their Christmas story to include food poisoning.

How to Run Christmas-Themed Quizzes for Your Pub, Restaurant or Hotel

Christmas is one of the busiest and most profitable times of the year for hospitality venues. 

Guests are looking for festive fun, cosy surroundings and memorable experiences to share with family, friends and colleagues. 

A Christmas-themed quiz night ticks all the boxes: it’s affordable entertainment, easy to host, and brilliant for boosting footfall and dwell time.

Whether you run a local pub, a family-friendly restaurant or a boutique hotel, or are in charge of Christmas entertainments at a hotel that's part of a chain, here’s how to host a festive quiz that keeps guests returning year after year.

Why Christmas Quiz Nights Work So Well

They attract groups

Office parties, club socials and family get-togethers, all love a quiz. It’s an ideal pre-Christmas event that appeals to mixed ages.

They encourage longer stays

Teams ordering sharing boards, puddings or an extra round while the quizmaster tallies scores is great for revenue.

They create a warm community feel

A quiz night adds atmosphere and gives you a chance to showcase your venue’s personality.

They’re easy to run

With a bit of preparation, you can host a brilliant evening without needing specialist equipment.

Choose a Format That Works for Your Venue

★ Traditional Pen-and-Paper Quiz

Perfect for pubs and casual restaurants. Keep it simple: several themed rounds and a picture sheet on each table.

★ Christmas Bingo-Quiz Hybrid

Guests fill in bingo cards with answers instead of numbers. It’s fast-paced and great for families.

★ Big Screen Quiz

If you have a projector or large TV, add picture rounds, music clips and film stills. Ideal for hotel lounges or larger restaurants.

★ Charity Quiz Night

Partner with a local charity, hospice or foodbank. It strengthens community ties and boosts turnout.

Festive Quiz Round Ideas

Mix easy and harder questions to keep all teams engaged. Popular round themes include:

The 12 Days of Christmas

Questions about birds, meanings, and origins of the song.

Christmas TV Specials

From Morecambe and Wise to The Vicar of Dibley, this always goes down well.

Food and Drink at Christmas

British festive traditions, unusual global practices or guess-the-ingredient challenges.

Name That Christmas Tune

Short clips or even hummed intros if you want to add some humour.

Christmas Toys Through the Decades

Nostalgia always sparks lively conversation.

Christmas Around the World

Perfect for hotel guests or venues with an international crowd.

Add On-Brand Prizes

You don’t need to spend much to create excitement. Choose prizes that also promote your venue:

Free dessert or coffee for each team member

A gift card for the pub or restaurant

A Christmas hamper featuring local produce

A bottle of fizz for the winning team

A “booby prize” such as a wooden spoon or novelty reindeer antlers

Many venues also offer a “rollover jackpot” for a bonus question, encouraging repeat visits.

Make It Special With Festive Touches

A Christmas quiz should feel magical, not just another Thursday night. Small details make a big difference:

Serve mulled wine, hot chocolate or Christmas cocktails

Offer a quiz-night festive platter or sharing board

Add fairy lights, table candles or music to set the mood

Invite teams to wear Christmas jumpers for a prize

Use decorative answer sheets or scorecards

Promote Your Quiz Effectively

Good advertising ensures a full house. Try:

Posters in-venue and on your entrance door

Daily posts on Facebook, Instagram, X and Threads

An event listing on your website or Google Business page

Sharing details with local community groups

Adding a “Book your table for our Christmas quiz!” button online

Always encourage teams to reserve tables early to manage capacity.

Keep the Night Running Smoothly

Start on time to respect early arrivals

Keep rounds short and lively

Use a microphone if the room gets busy

Allow a short break for ordering drinks

Check answer sheets in full view for transparency

Announce results with plenty of cheer and humour

A friendly, upbeat quizmaster makes all the difference.

Make It a Seasonal Tradition

If your first quiz goes well, turn it into a Christmas tradition. Many venues run:

Weekly quizzes throughout December

A festive “Big Quiz Night” just before Christmas

A New Year quiz to kick off January trade

Guests love rituals, and a well-run quiz night becomes something they look forward to each year.

Hosting a Christmas-themed quiz night is an easy, low-cost way to generate excitement, increase bookings and bring people together. With clever theming, good promotion and a welcoming atmosphere, your pub, restaurant or hotel can become the go-to venue for festive fun in your community.

How to Make a Late Booking for Christmas Dinner at a Pub, Restaurant, or Hotel

Sometimes, the best-laid plans for a cosy Christmas dinner at home can go awry. 

Whether it’s due to an unexpected bout of poor health, a last-minute kitchen disaster, or simply a change of heart, finding yourself without a festive meal on Christmas Day can be stressful. 

But fear not! Many pubs, restaurants, and hotels are prepared to cater for last-minute bookings.

 Here’s how to secure your spot and enjoy a delicious Christmas feast without the hassle of cooking at home.

1. Act Quickly

Time is of the essence when it comes to last-minute Christmas bookings. Venues often fill up weeks in advance, but cancellations do happen. As soon as you realise your plans have changed, start your search. The earlier you act, the better your chances of finding availability.

2. Be Flexible with Timing

Prime dining slots, such as midday or early afternoon, are likely to be fully booked. However, some venues may have availability for later sittings. If you’re willing to dine a little earlier or later than usual, you’ll have a better chance of securing a table.

3. Use Online Booking Platforms

Websites like OpenTable, ResDiary, or Bookatable can be invaluable for checking real-time availability at multiple venues. Some platforms even allow you to join waitlists for fully booked restaurants, so you’ll be notified if a table becomes available.

4. Call Venues Directly

Not all establishments update their online booking systems immediately. Calling pubs, restaurants, and hotels directly can give you a clearer picture of their availability. Be polite and explain your situation; some venues may go out of their way to accommodate you.

5. Consider Smaller or Lesser-Known Venues

While popular spots may be fully booked, smaller or less well-known establishments might still have space. Local pubs or family-run restaurants can offer a warm and welcoming atmosphere, often with more flexibility for last-minute bookings.

6. Look for Cancellations

Keep an eye out for last-minute cancellations. Many venues experience no-shows or cancellations in the days leading up to Christmas. Follow your chosen venues on social media, as they often post about sudden availability there.

7. Be Prepared to Travel

If local options are fully booked, consider broadening your search to nearby towns or villages. A short drive or train journey could open up a range of possibilities, and you might discover a hidden gem in the process.

8. Consider Hotel Restaurants

Hotels often cater to both guests and non-guests on Christmas Day and may have more extensive dining facilities than standalone restaurants. Even if their main dining room is fully booked, they might have alternative spaces available for festive meals.

9. Check for Special Menus and Pricing

Before booking, confirm the details of the Christmas menu, including pricing and what’s included. Many venues offer set menus with multiple courses, but it’s always good to double-check to ensure it fits your preferences and budget.

10. Be Ready to Pay a Deposit

Most venues require a deposit to secure a Christmas booking, especially for last-minute reservations. Have your payment details ready and be prepared to confirm your booking promptly.

11. Plan Your Transport

Ensure you have a reliable way to get to and from the venue, especially if you’re dining in the evening or travelling to a rural location. Book taxis or check public transport schedules in advance, as services may be limited on Christmas Day.

12. Enjoy the Experience

Once you’ve secured your booking, focus on enjoying the day. Dining out on Christmas can be a delightful change of pace, with festive decorations, professional service, and a stress-free atmosphere. Embrace the opportunity to relax and savour a meal prepared by skilled chefs.

By following these tips, you can turn a potential Christmas Day disaster into a memorable dining experience. With a bit of flexibility and quick thinking, you’ll soon be tucking into turkey and all the trimmings without lifting a finger in the kitchen. Cheers to a stress-free Christmas!

How to Organise and Host a Brilliant Christmas Quiz

The festive season is upon us, and what better way to celebrate than by hosting a Christmas quiz? 

Whether it's at your local pub, for your club, your workmates, or just for family and friends, a quiz night is the perfect way to bring people together. 

It’s fun, festive, and filled with friendly competition. Here’s how to organise and host a Christmas quiz everyone will remember.

1. Choose Your Venue and Audience

The setting of your quiz will dictate a lot of your decisions. Are you hosting at a pub, your club, the office, or at home? 

For larger groups, a spacious venue with enough seating and a microphone might be necessary. For smaller, intimate gatherings, your living room or a cosy corner of a pub will do just fine.

Make sure the environment fits the tone of your quiz – fun and relaxed, with a touch of festive cheer.

2. Set the Date and Spread the Word

Pick a date that works for your audience, ideally a week or two before Christmas when the festive spirit is in full swing. Avoid overly busy dates like Christmas Eve or weekends when people may have other plans.

Send out invites via email, social media, or old-fashioned Christmas cards for a personal touch. Include details like the time, venue, and whether there’s a prize for the winners.

3. Create Festive Quiz Rounds

The heart of any quiz is its questions, so make them engaging and Christmassy. Here are some ideas for festive quiz rounds:

Christmas Films: Name the movie based on a quote or describe a plot in a few words.

Music Round: Play snippets of Christmas songs for teams to identify, or go for a “finish the lyrics” challenge.

General Knowledge: Mix in some Christmas-related trivia (e.g., What’s the best-selling Christmas single of all time?).

Picture Round: Show pictures of famous Christmas traditions, celebrities dressed as Santa, or festive foods.

History & Traditions: Questions about Christmas customs from around the world.

Keep the rounds balanced to suit everyone – not just the trivia buffs!

4. Equip Yourself With the Right Tools

You’ll need some essentials to keep the quiz running smoothly:

Answer Sheets: Provide sheets for teams to write down their answers.

A Timer: Keep rounds on schedule with a timer or stopwatch.

Speaker System: If it’s a large crowd, a microphone and speakers will ensure you’re heard.

Projector or Screen: Great for picture or video rounds.

You can also use online platforms like Kahoot or Google Forms for a tech-savvy quiz night.

5. Add Festive Decorations and Extras

Set the mood with Christmas decorations. Hang fairy lights, garlands, and maybe a mistletoe or two. A festive dress code, like Christmas jumpers or Santa hats, adds to the fun.

Consider offering mulled wine, mince pies, or other festive treats to keep everyone in high spirits.

6. Decide on Prizes

People love a bit of competition, especially when there’s a prize involved. Keep it light-hearted with festive-themed prizes like:

A bottle of wine or bubbly

A hamper of Christmas goodies

Gift cards

A humorous trophy, like a "Christmas Quizmaster Crown"

Have a small consolation prize for the team in last place to keep it fun for everyone.

7. Be a Great Host

As the quizmaster, it’s your job to keep the energy high and the atmosphere lively. Inject some humour, don’t be afraid to banter with teams, and keep the quiz moving along at a good pace.

8. Add a Twist

Spice things up with a few unique twists:

Bonus Points: Offer extra points for best team name or best festive attire.

Speed Round: Include a rapid-fire round where teams shout out answers.

Secret Santa Round: Hide bonus prizes under chairs or have a random “lucky team” winner.

9. End on a High Note

Finish the evening with a heartfelt thank-you to everyone for participating. Announce the winners with a bit of fanfare, hand out the prizes, and maybe have a festive singalong to close the night.

10. Follow Up

If it’s a regular event, get feedback on what people enjoyed or what could improve. Sharing photos or funny moments from the quiz on social media can help keep the festive spirit alive and encourage attendance next year.

With a little planning and a lot of Christmas cheer, your quiz night is sure to be a hit. So, put on your Santa hat, brush up on your trivia, and get ready to host a fabulous Christmas quiz!

Why You Might Need to "Ask for Angela" in a Pub, Café, or Restaurant Over the Christmas Period

The festive season is one of joy, laughter, and celebration, but it's also a time when many of us find ourselves socialising more than usual—whether that's catching up with friends at a local pub, enjoying a cosy coffee date at a café, or indulging in a festive meal at a restaurant, or a work Christmas do.

However, not every social situation goes as planned, and sometimes, things can take an uncomfortable or even dangerous turn. 

That's where the "Ask for Angela" initiative comes in—a discreet code phrase that can offer an essential lifeline to anyone feeling unsafe.

What is "Ask for Angela"?

"Ask for Angela" is a safety campaign that was introduced in the UK in 2016 to help individuals discreetly signal that they need help if they are feeling threatened or unsafe. 

The idea is simple: if you're in a pub, café, or restaurant and feel uncomfortable—whether that's because of a bad date, a stranger’s unwanted attention, or just a situation that doesn’t feel right—you can go up to a member of staff and "Ask for Angela". Staff members will understand that this is a code for needing assistance and will then help you to leave the situation safely, either by arranging a taxi, offering a safe space, or even calling the authorities if necessary.

Why the Festive Season Can Be Riskier

Christmas is a time for celebration, and many of us use it as an opportunity to unwind and socialise. Unfortunately, the festive season also comes with increased risks:

Alcohol and lowered inhibitions: Many people drink more over the Christmas period, which can lead to poorer judgement and, in some cases, unwanted advances or inappropriate behaviour.

Busy venues: Pubs and restaurants are often packed during the festive season, making it easier for uncomfortable situations to escalate unnoticed by others. It's harder for friends to keep an eye on each other when crowds are large, and staff are often rushed off their feet.

Meeting new people: The Christmas season is a popular time for online dating, blind dates, and social gatherings with strangers. While most encounters go smoothly, the reality is that not everyone you meet will have good intentions. "Ask for Angela" offers a way out if your date takes an unexpected or unsettling turn.

Increased loneliness and vulnerability: Not everyone feels festive cheer during Christmas. Some people may feel lonely or vulnerable and, as a result, might end up in situations they’re not entirely comfortable with. Whether it's being pressured into staying longer than you’d like or dealing with someone who won't take "no" for an answer, it's important to have an exit strategy.

How "Ask for Angela" Works

If you ever feel uncomfortable or unsafe, the process of using "Ask for Angela" is straightforward:

Approach a staff member: Find a member of staff behind the bar, counter, or at the reception area. It’s best to do this away from the person causing the discomfort if possible.

Use the phrase discreetly: Simply say, "Can I speak to Angela, please?" The staff should recognise this as a request for help and will take you aside to assess the situation discreetly.

Receive assistance: Depending on the circumstances, staff may offer to call a taxi, escort you to a safe area, or alert security or the police. They are trained to help you leave the situation without drawing attention to the fact that you're seeking help.

How Venues Can Support the Initiative

For "Ask for Angela" to be truly effective, venues need to actively participate. Here are some ways that pubs, cafés, and restaurants can make sure the initiative works:

Display posters: Visible signs in bathrooms, near the bar, or in seating areas can help remind patrons that this service is available.

Train staff: Employees should be trained on how to respond quickly and discreetly if someone uses the "Ask for Angela" phrase.

Create a supportive atmosphere: Encouraging a safe environment and zero tolerance for harassment can go a long way in preventing uncomfortable situations from arising in the first place.

Final Thoughts

The "Ask for Angela" initiative is an empowering tool that can help ensure everyone feels safe while socialising, especially during the Christmas period when people are more likely to be out celebrating. Whether you're meeting friends, family, or even new acquaintances, it's comforting to know that help is just a discreet question away.

So, this festive season, while you're out enjoying yourself, keep "Ask for Angela" in mind—not just for yourself, but for others who may need support. By raising awareness and using it when necessary, we can help make the holiday season safer and more enjoyable for everyone.

Stay safe, and happy Christmas!