The Magic of Traditional Christmas Festivities in Iceland

Iceland, the land of fire and ice, takes on an enchanting aura during Christmastime. 

The country’s unique blend of ancient folklore, wintery landscapes, and warm community spirit makes Christmas in Iceland a truly magical experience. 

Here’s a closer look at how Icelanders celebrate this cherished season, filled with traditions that reflect their rich cultural heritage.

Advent and Festive Preparations

The Icelandic Christmas season begins with Advent, marked by the lighting of candles on an Advent wreath. Each Sunday leading up to Christmas, one more candle is lit, symbolising hope and the anticipation of brighter days during the long winter nights.

Icelanders also take great pride in decorating their homes with twinkling lights, stars, and Christmas ornaments. These adornments bring warmth and cheer to the dark December days. Traditional Christmas plants, like poinsettias and amaryllis, are popular decorations. Families often bake Christmas biscuits and cakes, filling their homes with the comforting aroma of cinnamon, cloves, and ginger.

The Yule Lads: Mischievous and Magical

One of the most beloved aspects of Icelandic Christmas folklore is the Yule Lads, a group of 13 mischievous characters who visit children in the 13 days leading up to Christmas. Each night, children leave a shoe on their windowsill. If they’ve been good, the Yule Lad of the day leaves a small gift, such as sweets or toys. If they’ve been naughty, they might find a potato instead!

The Yule Lads, with names like Spoon-Licker, Door-Slammer, and Candle-Stealer, have their origins in Iceland’s pagan past. Today, they bring a sense of whimsy and excitement to the season.

Jólaöldur and Christmas Eve

As Christmas Eve approaches, the festivities ramp up. On 23 December, Icelanders celebrate Þorláksmessa (St. Þorlákur’s Mass), honouring the country’s patron saint. It’s traditional to eat fermented skate on this day—a delicacy that has a strong smell but is a favourite for many.

Christmas Eve, or Aðfangadagur, is the heart of the Christmas season. Families gather in the evening for a grand feast, often featuring roast lamb, ptarmigan, or smoked pork. Dessert might include laufabrauð, a crisp, intricately decorated flatbread. 

At 6 pm, the church bells ring across the country, marking the official start of Christmas. After dinner, gifts are exchanged, and families spend the evening together, reading books and enjoying one another’s company.

Books and Cosy Nights: The Joy of Jólabókaflóð

One of Iceland’s most cherished Christmas traditions is the Jólabókaflóð, or “Christmas Book Flood.” Books are a popular gift, and families exchange them on Christmas Eve.

It’s customary to spend the night reading by the fire, often accompanied by a cup of hot chocolate. This tradition reflects Icelanders’ deep love for literature and the cosy spirit of the season.

New Year’s and Epiphany

The festive season doesn’t end with Christmas. Icelanders celebrate New Year’s Eve with spectacular fireworks displays that light up the dark winter skies. Families and friends gather for feasts and festivities, often lasting until the early hours of the morning.

The season concludes on 6 January with Þrettándinn (Epiphany). This day is steeped in folklore, with bonfires, elfin dances, and tales of mythical creatures making an appearance. It’s a fitting end to a season filled with magic and wonder.

Final notes

Iceland’s Christmas traditions are a delightful blend of ancient customs and modern celebrations, infused with warmth and charm. From the playful antics of the Yule Lads to the heartfelt tradition of sharing books, Icelandic Christmas is a time of togetherness, storytelling, and joy. If you ever have the chance to visit during this season, you’ll find yourself enchanted by the country’s festive spirit—and perhaps even leave with a new appreciation for the magic of Christmas.

Let this year’s festive season be an inspiration to embrace a slower, more meaningful celebration, Icelandic style!

How to Get Involved in the Samaritan’s Purse Christmas Shoebox Appeal 2024

The Samaritan’s Purse Christmas Shoebox Appeal, also known as Operation Christmas Child, is a beloved initiative that spreads joy and hope to children around the world during the festive season. 

By filling a shoebox with thoughtful gifts, you can make a difference in a child’s life, sharing love and generosity with those who may otherwise go without. Here’s how you can get involved in the 2024 appeal.

Step 1: Choose Your Shoebox

The first step is to choose a shoebox. You can use an empty shoebox from home or purchase a pre-printed one directly from Samaritan’s Purse. If you’re using your own box, make sure it’s sturdy and cover it with festive wrapping paper, keeping the lid separate so it can be opened easily.

You’ll also need to decide whether your box will be for a boy or girl and select an age category: 2–4 years, 5–9 years, or 10–14 years.

Step 2: Fill Your Shoebox

Fill your shoebox with a selection of gifts that will bring joy and practical help to a child. Samaritan’s Purse suggests including:

Toys: A cuddly toy, a skipping rope, a small puzzle, or a deflated football with a pump.

School Supplies: Pens, pencils, notebooks, colouring books, or crayons.

Hygiene Items: A toothbrush, a bar of soap (in a sealed bag), a comb, or a flannel.

Accessories: Hats, gloves, socks, or hair accessories.

Avoid items that could be harmful or unsuitable, such as chocolate, food, liquids, breakable items, or war-related toys. Check the official website for a detailed list of prohibited items.

Step 3: Add a Personal Touch

Include a personal note or photo in your shoebox to connect with the child who receives it. Many recipients cherish these messages as much as the gifts themselves. You might even hear back from the child, as some choose to write a thank-you letter in return.

Step 4: Donate £5 and Track Your Box

Samaritan’s Purse requests a £5 donation per shoebox to cover shipping and distribution costs. You can donate online and print a label that allows you to track your box to its final destination. If you’re unable to donate online, you can include the money in an envelope inside your shoebox.

Step 5: Drop Off Your Shoebox

Once your shoebox is ready, find your nearest drop-off point using the Samaritan’s Purse website. Drop-off points are typically open during National Collection Week, which will take place in mid-November 2024.

If you’re part of a church, school, or community group, consider organising a collection to bring in multiple shoeboxes at once.

Alternative Ways to Participate

If you’re short on time or unable to shop for items, you can still participate. Samaritan’s Purse offers an online Build a Shoebox option, where you can choose gifts and personalise a box digitally.

You can also spread the word by encouraging friends, family, and colleagues to join in. Share the joy on social media and invite others to participate in this meaningful cause.

Why It Matters

The Samaritan’s Purse Christmas Shoebox Appeal is about more than just gifts—it’s about hope. Many of the children who receive these boxes live in poverty, conflict zones, or areas affected by natural disasters. Your act of kindness reminds them that they are loved and not forgotten.

This year, make your Christmas season even brighter by giving to a child in need. Together, we can share love, generosity, and the true spirit of the holiday season.

Visit the official Samaritan’s Purse Operation Christmas Child website for more details and to get started on your shoebox today. https://occ.samaritans-purse.org.uk

Ready to pack a shoebox? Start now and make 2024 a year of giving!

Kickstart Christmas at Wembley Park

Winter in Wembley Park Chris Winter / Wembley Park

Wembley Park, North West London’s renowned culture and entertainment hub, transforms into a global festive celebration this winter. 

Winter in Wembley Park 2024 will showcase how cultures worldwide unite through festive music, traditions and vibrant markets.

Kickstarting the winter celebrations on December 7th, Wembley Park’s open-air Sound Shell presents A Global Christmas: A Thousand Years of Festive Music Through Cultures and Time. This unique concert bridges continents and traditions, showcasing the universal spirit of Christmas through music. Starting on the same day, the Wembley Park Festive Market will be a global treasure trove of artisan and festive products. For three weekends in December, visitors can discover unique gifts, international flavours and seasonal treats, from German sausages and Italian Panettone to South American Alpaca crafts and African textiles.

Returning due to popular demand, the From Saint to Santa outdoor exhibition delves into the fascinating evolution of one of the world’s most enduring festive figures. Located in Arena Square from 3rd December, this unique display takes visitors on a journey through centuries of history, exploring how the image of Santa Claus has been shaped by diverse cultures and traditions from across the globe. Meanwhile, younger visitors will be delighted by Festive Fun: A Merry Celebration for Young Ones, a special, free children’s event designed to bring joy and creativity to the season.

With a stunning 15 metre tall, traditional Christmas Tree in Market Square setting the festive scene from 4th December and the launch of Trialogue, a new audio-visual 3D art installation on 27th November as part of the public Art Trail, Wembley Park offers a wealth of free attractions for residents and visitors of all ages to explore.

A Global Christmas: A Thousand Years of Festive Music Through Cultures and Time

Saturday 7th December – Free to attend concert

Kicking off the wintery celebrations, Wembley Park's open-air Sound Shell will host A Global Christmas: A Thousand Years of Festive Music Through Cultures and Time, a one-of-a-kind Christmas concert that brings together festive musical traditions from across the world. Taking place on Saturday, 7th December from 1pm – 6pm, A Global Christmas will be a free, open-air musical journey into global Christmas music traditions on iconic Olympic Way, right in front of Wembley Stadium. 

For more information, visit wembleypark.com

Winter Gardening Tasks to Tackle Over the Festive Period

The festive period is often associated with cosy evenings by the fire, indulging in seasonal treats, and spending time with loved ones. 

However, it’s also an excellent time to prepare your garden for the coming year. While your garden may appear dormant, there’s plenty to be done to ensure it flourishes when spring arrives. 

Here’s a guide to winter gardening tasks that will keep your green spaces in prime condition over the holiday season.

1. Tidy Up and Clear Debris

Start with a good garden tidy-up. Fallen leaves, twigs, and other debris can harbour pests and diseases over winter. Clear these away, adding healthy material to your compost heap. If you’ve got a lawn, keep it free of leaves to prevent it from suffocating or becoming patchy.

2. Prune Trees and Shrubs

Winter is the perfect time to prune dormant trees and shrubs. Focus on removing dead, damaged, or diseased branches to improve the plant’s health and shape. Be sure to check what’s safe to prune now – some plants, such as spring-flowering shrubs, are better left until after they’ve bloomed.

3. Protect Delicate Plants

Frost-sensitive plants need extra care during the colder months. Use horticultural fleece, cloches, or mulch to insulate them. Move potted plants to sheltered spots or indoors if possible. Pay particular attention to tender herbs, such as rosemary or bay, which might need some extra protection.

4. Feed the Soil

Winter is an excellent time to enrich your soil. Spread well-rotted manure, compost, or other organic matter over your beds. The nutrients will slowly leach into the soil, ready to give your plants a boost come spring. Mulching also helps suppress weeds and insulate the ground.

5. Plan for Next Year

Use the quieter gardening season to plan your garden for the year ahead. Whether it’s redesigning a flower bed, starting a vegetable patch, or introducing new plants, this is your chance to dream big. Sketch out layouts, research planting schedules, and order seeds or bulbs.

6. Maintain Tools and Equipment

Take advantage of the slower season to clean, sharpen, and oil your gardening tools. Check your lawnmower and other equipment to ensure they’re in good working order. Organising your shed or greenhouse now will save you time and hassle later.

7. Support Wildlife

Winter can be tough on garden wildlife. Keep bird feeders topped up with seeds, fat balls, and fresh water. Consider building log piles or installing insect hotels to provide shelter for small creatures. A garden rich in biodiversity will repay you in the growing season.

8. Plant Winter Interest 

If your garden feels a bit bare, consider planting shrubs and flowers that thrive in winter, such as hellebores, winter jasmine, or dogwood. Evergreens and plants with striking bark or berries can add structure and colour to your outdoor space.

9. Check Fences and Structures

Inspect fences, gates, and garden structures for damage caused by wind or frost. Tighten loose screws, treat wood with preservative, and make any necessary repairs to ensure everything is secure before the worst of the winter weather sets in.

10. Embrace the Season

Finally, don’t forget to enjoy your garden over the festive period. Decorate outdoor trees with fairy lights, bring in sprigs of holly and ivy for natural décor, or create a cosy corner with a fire pit and blankets. Your garden is an extension of your home – celebrate it!

By taking care of these tasks during the festive season, you’ll not only keep your garden in great shape but also enjoy the satisfaction of knowing you’re ahead of the game for spring. So, wrap up warm, grab a pair of gloves, and make the most of the crisp winter days!

Fantastic Christmas Presents for the Pet Parrots in Your Life

As Christmas approaches, it’s not just the humans who deserve a special treat under the tree. 

Your feathered companions bring so much joy and character to your home, so why not include them in the festive celebrations? 

Our little bird has her own advent calendar, her own nativity scene, her own Christmas village and her own gifts under the tree!

Parrots are intelligent, social creatures who thrive on stimulation and interaction, making Christmas the perfect time to spoil them. Here’s a guide to some fantastic Christmas presents for your pet parrot.

1. Festive-Themed Toys

Parrots love to chew, shred, and explore, so why not gift them some holiday-themed toys? Look for bird-safe toys in the shapes of Christmas trees, stars, or bells. Toys with natural fibres, colourful wooden pieces, and bells are perfect for keeping your parrot entertained while also satisfying their natural instincts.

2. Foraging Treats and Puzzles

Parrots adore foraging—it mimics their natural behaviour in the wild. For Christmas, treat them to a new foraging toy or puzzle feeder. Fill it with their favourite treats, such as nuts or dried fruit (free from sugar and preservatives). Not only does this keep them busy, but it also promotes mental stimulation.

3. Natural Perches

A new natural wood perch can be both a practical and enriching gift. Opt for perches made from bird-safe wood like manzanita, apple, or java wood. Natural shapes encourage better foot health and add a touch of variety to their habitat.

4. Customised Parrot Playground

Consider creating a dedicated play area for your parrot. You can purchase a parrot gym or DIY one with ladders, swings, and ropes. Add some festive touches with red and green elements to make it feel Christmassy.

5. Edible Christmas Wreaths

Treat your parrot to an edible Christmas wreath made from bird-safe materials. You can find pre-made ones or craft your own with willow branches, dried fruit, and vegetables. Just be sure to avoid toxic foods like avocado, chocolate, and onion.

6. Cosy Snuggle Hut

For smaller parrots like budgies or conures, a cosy snuggle hut makes a great present. These little hideaways offer warmth and security, ideal for the colder months. Ensure it’s made from non-toxic materials and is easy to clean.

7. Parrot-Safe Christmas Crackers

Make your parrot their own Christmas crackers filled with surprises! Use untreated cardboard tubes and stuff them with paper shreddings, small toys, and treats. Watching your parrot tear into their "cracker" is bound to bring a smile to your face.

8. Parrot Training Kit

Christmas is a wonderful time to bond with your feathered friend. A parrot training kit with clickers, target sticks, or rings can make for a fun, interactive gift. Use it to teach them tricks or encourage positive behaviours.

9. Parrot-Themed Christmas Decorations

Why not involve your parrot in decorating the house? Purchase or craft ornaments shaped like parrots or featuring feathers and bright colours. Your pet might not use these directly, but it’s a lovely way to celebrate their place in your family.

10. Homemade Parrot Treats

If you enjoy baking, whip up some homemade parrot treats. Use bird-safe ingredients like oats, wholemeal flour, and fresh fruit to create festive-shaped biscuits. Wrap them up in colourful, parrot-safe paper for an extra special presentation.

Final Tips for a Parrot-Safe Christmas

While it’s lovely to indulge your parrot during the holidays, remember to prioritise their safety. Avoid toys with small parts they could swallow, and steer clear of decorations or materials coated in paint or glue. Keep your parrot away from Christmas trees and lights unless supervised, as they can be hazardous.

By treating your parrot to one or more of these gifts, you’ll not only make their Christmas merry but also enrich their everyday life. So, as you deck the halls and wrap the presents, don’t forget the feathered members of your family!

Merry Christmas to you and your parrots!

Support Family Farms This Christmas: The Power of Buying Local

Of course Santa visits the local farmer's market!

With family farms in the spotlight due to proposed inheritance tax changes that could unfairly burden small family farms or smallholders, this Christmas presents a unique opportunity for the British public to stand in solidarity. 

Supporting small family farms is not only a way to preserve a vital part of our countryside and heritage but also ensures you’re enjoying high-quality, locally sourced produce. 

Here’s why it matters and how you can make a difference by shopping at genuine farm shops this festive season.

Why Family Farms Need Your Support

Family farms are the backbone of rural Britain, producing fresh, sustainable food while stewarding the land for future generations. However, looming changes to inheritance tax could force many small family farms to sell off their land or go out of business entirely. This would have devastating consequences, not only for farming families but for the biodiversity and rural economy of the UK.

By choosing to shop directly from small farms, you are contributing to their survival and helping them remain a vibrant part of our communities. Every pound spent on locally produced goods supports these hardworking families and ensures that their farms remain operational in the face of growing economic pressures.

Why Choose Farm Shops This Christmas?

Farm shops are treasure troves of high-quality, fresh, and often seasonal products. Here are some compelling reasons to shop there this Christmas:

Locally Sourced Goods: Farm shops typically stock items that are produced right on the farm or sourced from nearby, reducing food miles and ensuring freshness.

Unique Finds: From handmade preserves to free-range meats and artisan cheeses, farm shops offer a distinctive selection of treats perfect for festive feasts.

Ethical Shopping: Supporting a family farm means backing sustainable farming practices and local economies rather than large, faceless corporations.

Finding Your Nearest Genuine Farm Shop

It’s easier than you might think to locate a small, genuine farm shop near you. Here’s how:

Check Online Directories

Websites such as Farm Retail (https://farmretail.co.uk) or BigBarn https://www.bigbarn.co.uk) feature searchable maps to help you find independent farm shops and local producers.

You will also find the following link of interest https://thebowlerhatfarmer.com

Look for Accreditation

Many genuine farm shops are members of organisations like the Farm Retail Association, ensuring their produce is authentically local and farm-sourced.

Ask Your Local Community

Word of mouth is a great way to discover hidden gems. Speak to neighbours or join community forums to get recommendations.

Visit Farmers’ Markets

Many farmers who run small shops also attend local markets. Stop by, meet the producers, and ask about their shops.

Making It a Family Tradition

Visiting a farm shop at Christmastime can be a delightful outing for the whole family. Many farms host festive events, offer handmade gifts, and even provide the chance to pick out a locally grown Christmas tree. By making it a part of your holiday tradition, you’ll be supporting rural communities and creating lasting memories.

The Spirit of Christmas Giving

This Christmas, your choices can make a real difference. Whether it’s a Christmas roast sourced from a local farmer or a hamper filled with artisanal goodies, your support ensures that family farms can continue to thrive despite the challenges they face.

Let’s stand together for Britain’s farming families and ensure they remain at the heart of our countryside. Visit your nearest farm shop, spread the word, and give the gift of local this Christmas.

Together, we can ensure the future of our family farms, one festive purchase at a time.

Should You Use Buy Now, Pay Later for Christmas Gifts? The Pros and Cons

The festive season is upon us, and for many, it’s a time of joy, celebration—and significant expense. With Christmas shopping lists growing longer, Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) services like Klarna, Clearpay, and Laybuy have become increasingly popular. 

These schemes allow you to spread the cost of purchases, easing immediate financial pressure. However, convenience often comes at a cost, and it’s important to weigh up the pros and cons, especially if using BNPL could lead to increased prices of up to 10%.

What Are BNPL Schemes?

BNPL services allow you to divide the cost of your purchases into instalments, often over a few weeks or months. Many offer interest-free options if payments are made on time, while others might charge late fees or interest, depending on the plan.

While these schemes can be a lifesaver for spreading out payments, they also come with risks—particularly during the high-pressure holiday season.

The Pros of Using BNPL for Christmas Shopping

1. Immediate Access to Gifts

BNPL lets you purchase items straight away, even if your budget is tight. This can be particularly helpful for snagging sales or securing items that might sell out before payday.

2. Spreading Costs Over Time

Rather than paying a lump sum upfront, BNPL breaks your expenses into smaller, more manageable payments. This can help you balance your Christmas spending with other financial obligations.

3. Interest-Free Options

Many BNPL providers offer interest-free repayment plans, as long as payments are made on time. This can make it a more attractive option than traditional credit cards with higher interest rates.

4. Convenience

BNPL is often integrated directly into online checkouts, making it easy to choose this option when shopping.

The Cons of Using BNPL for Christmas Shopping

1. Risk of Overspending

BNPL can make purchases feel more affordable than they truly are, encouraging you to spend beyond your means. The temptation to “add one more gift” can quickly lead to mounting repayments.

2. Potential for Hidden Costs

If BNPL increases the price of your purchase by 10% or more, you’re effectively paying a premium for spreading out payments. This extra cost can add up, especially when buying multiple gifts.

3. Late Payment Penalties

Missing a payment can result in late fees or interest charges, which can quickly snowball. Some providers report missed payments to credit agencies, potentially affecting your credit score.

4. Psychological Impact

The "buy now, worry later" mindset can create financial stress once repayments begin, particularly in January, when budgets are often stretched.

5. Limited Consumer Protection

Unlike credit cards, BNPL transactions don’t always offer the same consumer protections, such as chargebacks for faulty or undelivered goods.

When BNPL Might Be Worth It

BNPL can be a helpful tool if:

You’ve carefully budgeted and know you can meet the repayment schedule without issue.

The provider offers an interest-free option, and you’re confident you won’t incur late fees.

You’re purchasing high-ticket items where spreading costs is genuinely beneficial.

When to Avoid BNPL

You might want to steer clear if:

The price increase outweighs the benefit of spreading payments.

You’re already juggling multiple debts or tight finances.

There’s a risk you might struggle to make repayments on time.

You’re tempted to use BNPL for impulse buys rather than planned purchases.

Tips for Responsible BNPL Use

Budget Carefully: Treat BNPL repayments as part of your monthly expenses and ensure they fit within your budget.

Track Your Spending: Keep a record of all BNPL purchases to avoid losing track of your total repayments.

Read the Terms: Understand the repayment schedule, fees, and potential interest charges before committing.

Plan Ahead: Only use BNPL for items you genuinely need or can’t afford upfront, and avoid using it as a way to buy gifts impulsively.

Explore Alternatives: If the price increase is significant, consider using a credit card with cashback or interest-free offers instead.

Final Thoughts

Buy Now, Pay Later schemes can be a handy way to manage Christmas shopping, but they’re not without risks. If the convenience comes at the cost of higher prices or potential financial strain, it’s worth considering other options. At its heart, the festive season is about connection and thoughtfulness—not overspending.

Before using BNPL, take a step back and evaluate your budget and priorities. A well-thought-out plan can ensure a joyful, stress-free Christmas for both you and your wallet.

Bringing Thanksgiving to the UK: How to Host a US-Style Dinner for American Friends or relatives

Thanksgiving may not be a British tradition, but it’s a treasured American celebration rooted in gratitude, family, and feasting. 

For Brits with American friends, neighbours or American family members living in the UK, staging a Thanksgiving dinner is a heartfelt way to make them feel at home. 

Whether they’re missing pumpkin pie or the camaraderie of the entire day, your gesture can mean the world. Here’s how to host a truly authentic (and memorable) US-style Thanksgiving right here in Britain.

1. Learn the Thanksgiving Essentials

Thanksgiving falls on the fourth Thursday of November. (The 28th, this year!) It’s a day for Americans to reflect on gratitude while gathering with loved ones. The feast is the centrepiece, with dishes like roast turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, green bean casserole, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie taking pride of place. 

For many, it’s also about football (the American kind) and watching the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

Do a little homework about the holiday’s origins and significance—it’s a thoughtful way to show you understand the spirit of the day.

2. Plan the Menu

The food is the star of the show, so a traditional Thanksgiving menu is essential. Many key ingredients are available in the UK, but a bit of creative sourcing might be needed:

Turkey: A large roast turkey is non-negotiable. Many butchers in the UK can supply one for this time of year if you pre-order.

Stuffing: Opt for classic American-style flavours, such as sage, sausage, and cornbread (you can make cornbread from scratch if needed).

Sweet Potatoes with Marshmallows: Yes, it sounds strange to us Brits, but this sweet and savoury dish is a Thanksgiving staple.

Pumpkin Pie: Canned pumpkin purée is available in many supermarkets and online, making this iconic dessert achievable. Alternatively, a pecan pie is a great substitute.

Be sure to ask your American friends about their family traditions. Every household does Thanksgiving a little differently, and they might love to share their recipes with you.

3. Decorate with Warmth

Thanksgiving décor is all about autumnal charm. Use warm colours like orange, gold, and deep red. Arrange pumpkins, gourds, and candles on the table, and perhaps add a centrepiece of autumn leaves or a cornucopia. Simple but thoughtful touches will create the right atmosphere.

4. Share the Gratitude

One of the most touching Thanksgiving traditions is going around the table and sharing what everyone is thankful for. It’s a moment of connection that encapsulates the holiday’s essence. Encourage your guests to participate, and don’t forget to share your own thoughts—it’s a lovely way to build bonds and make the evening special.

5. Include Some Entertainment

If you have a TV, put on some American football or a replay of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade to capture the ambience. You could also plan a quiz or play board games to keep the festivities lively.

6. Be Mindful of Homesickness

Thanksgiving can be an emotional time for those far from home. A kind word or a familiar dish might help ease the pangs of homesickness. Your effort in hosting the meal will already mean a great deal, so don’t worry about perfection—it’s the thought that counts.

7. Send Them Home with Leftovers

Leftovers are a big part of the Thanksgiving experience. Pack up some turkey, pie, and sides for your guests to enjoy the next day—it’s a simple but thoughtful way to prolong the joy of the holiday.

By hosting a Thanksgiving dinner for your American friends, you’re not only offering them a taste of home but also showing how much you value their friendship. In return, you might even find yourself falling in love with the warmth and togetherness of this uniquely American holiday.

So don your apron, embrace the pumpkin pie, and get ready to share a day of gratitude and good food—it’s a tradition worth celebrating, no matter where you’re from.

The genesis for this post? My "day" job is based in the USA and my employer very kindly gives all staff, even those in the UK, South Africa, etc, the Thanksgiving break. So my wife and I honour this kindness by hosting out own mini Thanksgiving event here in the UK.

https://buymeacoffee.com/martinschox

Welcome to my Buy Me a Coffee Page!

Hello, everyone, and welcome!

Thank you so much for your amazing support for That's Christmas and That's Food and Drink! Your enthusiasm and kind words have always meant the world to me.

I'm thrilled to let you know that I've launched a Buy Me a Coffee page! It's a little corner of the internet where you can support my work and help keep the festive cheer and foodie inspiration coming. 

Whether it's a warm cup of cocoa or a glass of something sparkling, your support fuels my creativity and helps me bring you even more fantastic content.

If you'd like to chip in and show your love, pop over to my page here: [Insert Link]. Every little bit is deeply appreciated, and it means so much to me to have you along on this journey.

Thank you again for being the wonderful community that you are – here's to plenty more festive fun and delicious discoveries ahead!

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Traditional Christmas Cooking for Indian Christians: A Celebration of Faith and Flavours

Christmas in India is a vibrant tapestry of faith, culture, and cuisine, where age-old traditions blend seamlessly with local flavours. 

For Indian Christians, the Christmas season is marked by heartfelt prayers, midnight masses, and, of course, the aroma of festive delicacies wafting through the air. 

The kitchen becomes the heart of the celebration, bringing families together to prepare a feast that honours both heritage and the joy of the season.

Here’s a glimpse into the culinary traditions that make Christmas a magical time for Indian Christians.

Christmas Cake: A Festive Essential

The Christmas cake is an unmissable highlight of the season. Inspired by the classic plum cake brought by the British, it has been lovingly adapted to suit Indian palates. This rich, spiced cake is brimming with dried fruits, nuts, and a generous splash of rum or brandy. The preparation often begins weeks in advance, with families soaking dried fruits in spirits to ensure the flavours deepen.

In many homes, baking the Christmas cake is a cherished family ritual, with everyone gathering to mix the ingredients—a process often accompanied by laughter, carols, and a prayer for blessings in the coming year.

Savoury Stars of the Table

While sweets hold a special place, the savoury dishes in an Indian Christian Christmas feast are equally noteworthy.

Vindaloo or Sorpotel: From Goa to Kerala, pork dishes like vindaloo or sorpotel are staples at Christmas gatherings. These slow-cooked dishes are infused with vinegar, spices, and a touch of jaggery, creating a harmonious balance of heat and tang.

Appam and Stew: In Kerala, a Christmas breakfast often features appam (fermented rice pancakes) served with a fragrant stew made with chicken, lamb, or vegetables simmered in coconut milk.

Biryani: For many families, biryani is a centrepiece dish, showcasing a medley of fragrant basmati rice, tender meat, and warm spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves.

Sweets for the Soul

Indian Christians have a rich tradition of Christmas sweets, influenced by regional cuisines yet unified by their festive spirit.

Kulkuls: These tiny, deep-fried curls of dough are coated in sugar syrup and have a delightful crunch. Kulkuls are often made in large batches, perfect for sharing with neighbours and friends.

Neureos: A Goan favourite, these sweet, crescent-shaped pastries are filled with coconut, jaggery, and nuts, and fried to golden perfection.

Bebinca: This decadent, layered Goan dessert is made with coconut milk, eggs, and sugar, baked layer by layer for a stunning finish. Bebinca is a labour of love and a symbol of Christmas indulgence.

Drinks to Toast the Season

No Christmas meal is complete without a festive drink to raise a toast. Many families brew their own homemade wine using grapes or plums, a practice steeped in tradition. For those seeking something more warming, a cup of spiced tea or coffee infused with cardamom and cinnamon is the perfect way to round off a hearty meal.

The Spirit of Community and Sharing

Christmas cooking in Indian Christian households is about more than just the food; it’s a celebration of togetherness and generosity. The festive season is a time to share meals, sweets, and love with neighbours of all faiths, reflecting India’s pluralistic spirit.

As you plan your Christmas menu this year, consider drawing inspiration from these rich culinary traditions. Whether it’s a slice of boozy plum cake, a bowl of aromatic biryani, or a crunchy kulkul, each bite tells a story of faith, family, and festivity.

Wishing you a Christmas filled with joy, warmth, and delicious food!

Interestingly as my wife's family originated in India some of the above utterly delicious dishes are not unknown in our home!