When Should You Start Making Your Christmas Pudding?

If there’s one festive tradition that truly stands the test of time, it’s the making of the Christmas pudding. 

Rich, fruity, spiced and often generously laced with a splash of brandy, sometimes with lashings of Guinness, it’s the centrepiece of many British Christmas dinners. But when, exactly, should you make it?

The answer lies in tradition – and in a little day known as Stir-up Sunday.

What is Stir-up Sunday?

Stir-up Sunday falls on the last Sunday before Advent (which begins four Sundays before Christmas Day). 

In 2025, that date will be 23rd November. The day gets its name from the opening words of the Book of Common Prayer’s collect for that Sunday: “Stir up, we beseech thee, O Lord…” Over the years, this became associated with stirring up the Christmas pudding.

Families would gather in the kitchen, each taking a turn to stir the pudding mixture from east to west in honour of the Three Wise Men, and often making a wish as they did so. 

Traditionally, a silver coin (usually a sixpence) was also stirred into the mixture for luck – though if you do this today, you might want to warn your guests first! 

There's a story in my wife's family of someone breaking their tooth on the sixpence and having to wait, in considerable pain, until he dentist opened after the Christmas holiday.  

Why Make it Then?

Making your pudding on Stir-up Sunday gives it plenty of time to mature before Christmas Day. The rich blend of dried fruits, spices and alcohol develops a deeper flavour the longer it rests, and many say that a pudding made weeks ahead is far superior to one made in a rush just before the big day.

The pudding is usually steamed for several hours when first made, then stored in a cool, dark place until Christmas. On the day itself, it’s steamed again before serving, doused in brandy, and brought to the table flaming – a moment of theatre that never fails to impress.

Do You Have to Make It Then?

Not at all! While Stir-up Sunday is a wonderful tradition, life doesn’t always stick to the calendar. You can make your pudding earlier in November, or even in October, if you like. In fact, some cooks prefer making it well in advance so the flavours can really develop. On the other hand, if you find yourself short on time, even a pudding made a week or two before Christmas will still be delicious.

A Tradition Worth Keeping

Whether you follow the calendar to the letter or adapt it to suit your own schedule, Stir-up Sunday is a lovely way to mark the start of the festive season. It’s about more than just cooking – it’s about family, anticipation, and keeping alive a tradition that has been passed down for generations.

So if you haven’t tried it before, why not set aside the Sunday before Advent this year, roll up your sleeves, and stir up a little Christmas magic?

Christmas Drinks? We have that covered!

It may still be summer, but Christmas will be here before you know it - and now’s the perfect time to get ahead on gift planning. 

This year we have organised our favourite spirits by price, making it easy to find something great no matter your budget. Whether you’re after affordable stocking fillers, great-value picks or a show-stopping gift, consider it sorted. From crisp gins and award-winning whiskies to vibrant liqueurs and inclusive non-alcoholic options, our selection offers something special for every taste and occasion.

Under £10 

Sierra Margarita Canned Cocktails  

Ready to chill and serve, Sierra Margarita cans are a playful addition to Christmas celebrations - perfect for parties, stockings, or sharing with friends.

The Sierra Margarita cans have been designed in vibrant colours and feature the iconic guitar-playing Jimador, Poncho, relaxing in the sunset. 

The Sierra red sombrero is instantly recognisable as a mark of quality and heritage, guaranteeing that the cocktail inside is full of bold flavour, expertly mixed and made for those moments worth savouring. These ‘bar-quality’ Margaritas have launched in two flavours, Lime and Strawberry.

Sierra Lime Margarita and Sierra Strawberry Margarita Range 12 x 250 ml Can Pack RRP £30.00 ABV: 6%. Available from Amazon and convenience stores across the UK. 

RRP: 1 x 250ml can for £2.49. ABV: 6%. Available to purchase from Lidl.

Under £20 

Australian Bitters 

A must for any cocktail enthusiast, Australian Bitters brings depth, character, and complexity to both classic and contemporary serves - from Old Fashioned's and Manhattans to Espresso Martinis.

 A true essential for any well-stocked bar.

Australian Aromatic Bitters RRP: 1 x 250ml for £14.50. ABV: 45%. Available to purchase from Amazon. 

Van Hunks Non Alcoholic Sparkling Rosé

For those skipping the alcohol but not the celebrations, Van Hunks Non-Alcoholic Sparkling Rosé is a sophisticated, crowd-pleasing alternative. 

Crafted using traditional winemaking techniques and carefully de-alcoholised to retain character and balance, it’s ideal for festive toasts, thoughtful gifting, or pairing with light dishes and good company.

Van Hunks Non Alcoholic: RRP £14 for 75cl bottle. ABV: 0.5% Available from Amazon and Van Hunks Website https://vanhunksdrinks.com

Limoncè Limoncello  

Crafted in Sicily using handpicked Femminello lemons—renowned for their intense citrus character—Limoncè Limoncello is Italy’s number one selling limoncello and a benchmark for quality and tradition. 

Free from artificial flavours or colouring, it’s made using a cold-infusion technique that preserves the natural brightness and zest of the fruit, while gentle double filtration delivers clarity and finesse. 

The result is a vibrant, aromatic liqueur with a citrus-forward profile, balanced sweetness, and a refined, zesty finish. Enjoy Limoncè Limoncello chilled or in a refreshing Limoncè Spritz. I first found Limoncello in an Italian cocktail bar in London. Absolutely amazing drink!

Limoncè Limoncello: RRP from £15 50cl | ABV 25%. Available from: Amazon, Master Of Malt and Ocado

Cotswolds Dry Gin Essence 

A beautifully crafted, lower-alcohol alternative from the award-winning Cotswolds Distillery.

 Made with 10x the botanical concentration of their signature Dry gin, this small but mighty bottle delivers all the flavour with a fraction of the alcohol. 

Each 5ml serve contains just 0.23 units of alcohol and 14 calories, just enough alcohol to toast, not topple. Simply add tonic for a lighter version of a G&T or add to your other favourite classic Gin cocktails. 

Whether gifting to a cocktail enthusiast, a health-conscious friend or someone exploring low-alcoholic options, this is a gift that feels refreshingly different. 

Cotswolds Dry Gin Essence: RRP from 18.50 for 100ml. ABV 46%. Available from The Cotswolds Distillery https://www.cotswoldsdistillery.com

Under £30

Van Hunks Brut  

Crafted in the traditional méthode cap classique, Van Hunks Brut Sparkling Wine is a premium South African fizz made from 70% Chardonnay and 30% Pinot Noir. 

Aged on the lees for 30 months, it offers refined complexity with delicate fruit, fine bubbles, and a beautifully balanced finish.

It's ideal for festive celebrations, thoughtful gifting, or raising a glass in style. 

Van Hunks Brut: RRP from £25 for 75cl bottle. ABV: 12%. Available from Amazon and Van Hunks website https://vanhunksdrinks.com

Dutch Barn Vodka  

Dutch Barn Vodka Original

A beautifully smooth and exceptionally clean vodka, Dutch Barn Vodka Original is perfect for those who appreciate quality and simplicity. 

Its crisp, pure character makes it ideal for sipping neat or mixing into classic cocktails—an elegant gift to toast the season with style. And it's made with apples! In Yorkshire.

Dutch Barn Vodka Original RRP: from £25 for 70cl. ABV: 40%. Available from Dutch Barn Vodka,  Amazon and Sainsbury’s.  https://dutchbarn.com

Dutch Barn Vodka Cherry

Add a splash of festive cheer with Dutch Barn Vodka Cherry. This vibrant cherry-flavored vodka delivers a luscious, fruity twist on the classic, ideal for holiday cocktails or warming winter drinks. A delightful gift that brings a burst of joyful flavour to any Christmas celebration.

Dutch Barn Vodka Cherry RRP: from £32 for 70cl. ABV: 40%. Available from Dutch Barn Vodka, and  Amazon.

Under £40 

Pantalones 

This Christmas, gift an organic tequila that combines quality and character. Pantalones Tequila comes in two expressions, Reposado and Blanco, each crafted to deliver a distinctive and smooth experience. 

Co-founded by Matthew and Camila McConaughey, this award-winning spirit invites you to enjoy life with a lighthearted spirit.

Pantalones Reposado 

A perfect gift for the tequila lover who appreciates a richer sip this holiday season. Aged nine months in American oak whisky barrels, this smooth and golden Reposado offers warming notes of caramel, vanilla, and toasted oak - ideal for cozy winter evenings and festive celebrations.

Pantalones Tequila Reposado: RRP [X]  ABV 40% for 70 cl. Available on trade at select cosy club venues. Soon to be in supermarkets UK wide. 

Pantalones Blanco  

Bright, fresh, and smooth, this organic Blanco is bursting with subtle notes of honey, citrus, and cooked agave. Its clean, crisp profile makes it a versatile gift, perfect for classic cocktails or enjoying neat during holiday gatherings.

Pantalones Tequila Blanco: RRP [X]  ABV 40% for 70 cl. Available on trade at select cosy club venues. Soon to be in supermarkets UK wide. 

£50 and over 

Renais Gin Original (Can be Personalised)  

A standout gift for the season, Renais Gin brings thoughtful detail and flavour together in one beautifully crafted bottle. 

Available with personalisation when purchased from the Renais website, it’s an ideal choice for hosts or gin lovers on your list. 

Founded by Alex and Emma Watson and inspired by their family vineyard in Northern France, it’s made using upcycled wine grapes and infused with botanicals like linden flowers, cubeb berries, and acacia honey. The result is a smooth, floral gin that shines in a classic G&T or festive spritz.

Renais Gin RRP: From £48.00 for 70cl. ABV: 40% . Available from www.renais.co.uk 

Renais Grand Cru 

Just in time for buying in for the festive season, Renais Grand Cru is a limited-edition gin matured for a year in a single Grand Cru Chablis oak cask. 

It's smooth and gently spiced, it’s layered with notes of vanilla, citrus and oak, and comes in a beautifully designed bottle, hand-numbered and boxed in sustainable mycelium packaging. 

With only 800 bottles available, it’s a rare and thoughtful gift for any gin lover.

Renais Grand Cru Cask Aged Gin RRP: From £90 for 70cl. ABV 50%. Available exclusively at www.renais.co.uk

Cotswolds Founder’s Choice Single Malt Whisky 

A bold and luxurious choice for whisky lovers, the Cotswolds Founder’s Choice Single Malt Whisky is matured exclusively in STR (that's shaved, toasted, and re-charred) ex-red wine casks to create a rich and intense festive dram. 

Non-chill filtered and naturally coloured, this cask-strength expression (around 60% ABV) offers a deep, complex flavour profile with notes of toffee, dark chocolate, and red berries, followed by layers of mocha, cinnamon, and warming ginger spice. The finish brings hints of baked bread and peppery heat — ideal for sipping slowly by the fire over the Christmas holidays.

Cotswolds Founder’s Choice Single Malt Whisky: RRP £76 for 70cl. ABV  Between 59.1% ABV and 60.5%. Available at Cotswolds Distillery Website https://www.cotswoldsdistillery.com

Cotswolds Dry Gin Magnum  

Make a statement this Christmas with the Cotswolds Dry Gin Magnum , a 1.5L bottle of award-winning gin that's as impressive in size as it is in flavour. 

Crafted using a generous blend of nine carefully selected botanicals, including freshly peeled lime and pink grapefruit zest, this classic London Dry-style gin is bursting with citrus, spice and juniper-forward character. 

It’s the perfect centrepiece for festive celebrations or a standout gift for any gin lover.

Cotswolds Dry Gin Magnum: RRP £78 for1.5L. ABV 46%. Available at Cotswolds Distillery Website https://www.cotswoldsdistillery.com

Scottish skincare brand Arganorganics launches 'botanical botox' range. An Ideal Christmas Gift

Perthshire's very own natural skincare brand Arganorganics have quite literally created a new beauty buzzword. 

Which we feel will make excellent Christmas gifts for those in your life who care about their skin and also perhaps some self-gifting for you, too?

They are the only company in the world to use two types of an extract of the Madagascan botanical Acmella Oleracea in their newly launched Regeneration range. 

A delicate yellow flowering plant Acmella Oleracea's unique numbing effect led to its popularity in cocktails and the nickname “buzz buttons.” 

Now Arganorganics has harnessed the innovative muscle relaxant properties of the botanical to develop a range that is a natural alternative to injectables.

Why is Acmella Oleracea groundbreaking?

It's been clinically proven to reduce expression lines and crows feet by exerting a temporary muscle relaxant effect similar to injectables and it's particularly effective on crow's feet and wrinkles around the mouth and has an immediate smoothing effect.

The Regeneration Anti-Ageing Range

The Regeneration range comprises the flagship Regeneration moisturiser and four serums - face, night, neck/chest and eye - that can be used on their own or layered under the moisturiser. Combining organic plant oils, natural actives, optimal 1% strength plant based retinol alternative bakuchiol and sustainable marine algae the range instantly smooths and minimises lines.

What makes this range different?

By incorporating two different extracts of the Acmella Oleracea plant and combining with natural actives artisan brand Arganorganics has produced a unique and gentle alternative to commercial injectables. 

It's become something of a cliche for brands to promote 'botox in a bottle' products, but with this range with its clinically proven muscle relaxant effects Arganorganics can genuinely make that claim.

FACTFILE:

Founded in 2011 by Dr Ails Smith Arganorganics is a sustainable artisan skincare brand based in rural Perthshire. It combines rare therapeutic Asian botanicals with indigenous botanicals many of which are locally sourced and grown on her farm with plant oils and natural actives to produce therapeutic treatments for skin conditions rosacea, eczema and psoriasis and innovative beauty ranges.

The new Regeneration anti-ageing range is available to buy from https://arganorganics.co.uk

Opies. Perfect for Christmas

Festive Foodies Unite! Opies have the perfect Christmas Gifts for Home Cooks, Secret Santas & Stocking Stuffers

You can really hit the sweet spot this Christmas with a delicious gift that’s under a tenner! 

Ideal for budding chefs, secret Santas, or that relative who’s impossible to shop for.

Opies Fruits with Alcohol – pantry heroes that bring bold flavour to puddings, cocktails, meringues and more.

3 irresistible flavours – all in luxe Luxardo® spirits and packed in stylish globe jars:

Black Cherries in Kirsch 460g

Baby Pears in Amaretto 420g

Peaches in 12‑Year‑Old Brandy 460g

Buying for a special diet? The Fruits with Alcohol are both gluten and dairy free as well as vegan friendly.

Gift individually or mix ‘n’ match – make a luxe addition to a custom hamper or a Christmas stocking that’ll be a guaranteed hit.

Upgrade your festive menu – serve straight from the jar with cream or ice cream, or amplify crumbles, trifles, tarte tatin, soufflés and more.

Ready-to-use recipes on the label and even more ideas online. Head to www.bennettopie.com for creative kitchen inspiration. I can also send a selection of recipes for Christmas leftovers, side dishes, desserts and cocktails if of interest.

Make the most of that syrup – turn it into boozy ice cubes, grown-up jellies, or a savoury glaze for meats.

Reusable jars – perfect for storing spices, nuts, herbs… or repurposed as festive tealight holders or home-styled snow globe.

Buy – in store and online from Waitrose / Waitrose.com as well as Nisa stores.

RSP – from £6.75

https://www.bennettopie.com

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FeatherSnap: Your Window to the Wild This Christmas

If you have avid bird spotters in your life who you are wondering what to buy them for Christmas, then That's Christmas 365 has found you the perfect gift.

Meet FeatherSnap the amazing device that transforms birdwatching into an interactive, tech-powered experience that they and their whole family can enjoy. Key features include:

• Capture stunning high-resolution photos and videos of every bird that visits their garden.

• Offers Real-time motion alerts – never miss a moment, no matter where they are.

• They can Curate their own Bird Book, collecting photos and videos of visiting species.

• Discover fascinating bird facts as they watch.

• AI-powered bird ID to help spot and identify even the trickiest of species.

• Achievement badges unlock as they progress on their birding journey.

• Solar panel roof for extended battery life.

• Built to withstand the elements for reliable, year-round performance.

Courtesy Heather Osborn

Gift Subscription Bundle:

Give them the gift of a year-round birding adventure!

• FeatherSnap Scout – RRP £159.99

• FeatherSnap Wi-Fi Subscription – £5.99/month or £49.99/year

The subscription unlocks full app functionality, including real-time alerts, species ID, and Bird Book collection.

Perfect for nature lovers, tech enthusiasts, or anyone who’d love a window to the wild this Christmas.

Explore more: https://uk.feathersnapcam.com

Christmas Dinner to Cost 6% More This Year, Warns BRC – Here’s How to Save Without Sacrificing the Festive Cheer

The British Retail Consortium (BRC) has issued a sobering forecast: Christmas dinners in 2025 are expected to cost around 6% more than last year. 

This comes as food inflation continues to outpace wage growth, squeezing household budgets at a time traditionally associated with indulgence, generosity, and gathering.

The rise in cost is largely attributed to increased prices of staples like poultry, potatoes, vegetables, and festive favourites such as mince pies and stuffing. Rising transportation and energy costs, coupled with labour shortages and global supply chain disruptions, are also playing their part.

But a pricier Christmas dinner doesn’t have to mean a poorer celebration. Here’s how savvy shoppers and home cooks can trim costs without trimming joy.

1. Plan Ahead and Budget Smart

Create your Christmas food plan now, yes, in the summer if you can. Note what you’ll actually eat and what typically gets wasted. That forgotten third dessert? Probably not worth the spend.

Write a detailed shopping list and stick to it. Budget by meal or per guest and avoid buying “just in case” extras that end up in the bin.

2. Embrace Seasonal and Local Produce

British-grown carrots, parsnips, and Brussels sprouts are not only cheaper when in season, but also fresher and tastier. Shopping from local farm shops or markets can help you bypass supermarket markups.

Look for veg box schemes or local suppliers offering festive bundles at lower costs than big retailers.

3. Consider Alternative Centrepieces

Turkey prices have surged, so why not opt for chicken, pork shoulder, a meat-free nut roast, or even a pie? A whole chicken can feed a smaller group for less than half the cost of a turkey, and vegetarian options can be both budget-friendly and showstopping.

You could even consider serving a hot buffet of comforting seasonal dishes instead of a formal sit-down meal, reducing both meat quantities and overall costs.

4. Share the Load

Hosting? Don’t be shy, ask guests to contribute. One could bring the pudding, another the wine or crackers. This makes the meal more affordable and inclusive.

Hosting a potluck-style Christmas dinner is growing in popularity and turns meal prep into a shared celebration.

5. Start Stocking Up Now

Take advantage of offers and discounts on non-perishablesm cranberry sauce, gravy granules, stuffing mix, and tinned goods. Spread the cost across the autumn months rather than swallowing a massive December food bill.

Use loyalty points, discount vouchers, and cashback apps to help ease the financial load.

6. Shop Around and Compare Prices

Don’t assume your regular supermarket is the cheapest. Use comparison apps or websites to track prices on key Christmas items, or explore budget retailers like Aldi, Lidl, or local cash-and-carry stores.

Some butchers and smaller retailers offer pre-order discounts or bundle deals, so ask early and book ahead.

7. Reduce Waste and Use Leftovers Creatively

In the UK, we throw away around 7 million tonnes of food annually, much of it around Christmas. Plan meals that use leftovers creatively: turkey curry, bubble and squeak, festive soup, or a hearty sandwich with all the trimmings.

Store leftovers properly and freeze what you can for January “freezer surprise” meals.

8. Make Your Own

Homemade items like stuffing, gravy, cranberry sauce, and even mince pies can be cheaper and tastier than shop-bought. Baking together is a low-cost activity that adds meaning to the meal.

If time is short, enlist help from family members and make it a communal experience.

Final Thoughts

While the BRC’s prediction may cause some festive fret, it’s also an opportunity to rethink our approach to Christmas dinner. Spending less doesn’t mean enjoying less, it means making smarter, more conscious choices.

A well-planned, joyfully cooked meal, shared with loved ones, has always been the real heart of Christmas. And no inflation figure can price that out.

Planning Ahead for the Perfect Christmas Gifts: Showing You Care Starts Now

It might still be summer outside, but if you want to make Christmas truly special for the people who matter most in your life, now is the time to start thinking about their gifts. 

Thoughtful, meaningful presents take more than a last-minute panic buy on Christmas Eve. 

By planning ahead, you’ll reduce stress, stay within budget, and, most importantly, choose gifts that show just how much you care.

Why Start Now?

Christmas may feel far off, but planning early means:

More time to think carefully about each person

Better deals before the December rush

Avoiding stock issues or last-minute postage panic

Spreading the cost of Christmas over several months

It’s not about extravagance; it’s about intention. The best gifts don’t necessarily cost the most—they’re the ones that reflect your connection with someone.

Step 1: Make Your Gift List

Start by writing down the names of the people you want to buy for. Include family, close friends, work colleagues, and anyone else you'd like to show appreciation to.

Next to each name, jot down:

Hobbies and interests

Any recent life changes (a move, a new baby, retirement, etc.)

What they loved in the past

What they don’t need (we all know someone who already has 12 candles)

Step 2: Brainstorm Meaningful Ideas

Here are some categories to consider:

Experiential gifts – tickets, memberships, or classes

Personalised items – from monogrammed mugs to custom artwork

Handmade presents – baked goods, crafted ornaments, or a framed photo

Subscription boxes – monthly treats for foodies, book lovers, or hobbyists

Wellbeing gifts – think self-care kits, calming teas, or bath products

Gifts of time – vouchers for a home-cooked meal, pet-sitting, or a day out together

The key is to match the gift to the recipient’s values and tastes, not just what's trendy.

Step 3: Set a Budget

Planning ahead means you can shop smart. Decide early how much you can afford to spend per person and look for opportunities to buy gradually, especially if you're keeping an eye on sales or shopping from independent makers who might need longer lead times.

Step 4: Start Shopping (Or Crafting!)

With your ideas in place, you can begin shopping steadily rather than in a mad rush. You’ll also have time to:

Order personalised gifts well in advance

Wait for seasonal sales or special offers

Gather supplies if you’re making something by hand

Keep a record of what you’ve bought and where you’ve stashed it. There’s nothing worse than forgetting you already bought Aunt Sue a scarf in August and buying another one in December!

Step 5: Wrap with Care

Beautiful wrapping doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Starting early means you can collect materials like:

Eco-friendly kraft paper

Reusable fabric wraps

Handmade gift tags

Ribbons, string, and dried citrus slices for a traditional feel

Gift-giving is a joyful part of Christmas, but it’s the thought that truly counts. When you plan ahead, you can give with purpose, and the people you care about most will feel just how much love and attention you’ve put into their gift.

So brew a cup of tea, open your planner, and start dreaming up a Christmas your loved ones will never forget, one meaningful gift at a time.

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Is It Ever Too Early to Put Christmas Stock on Shelves?

Christmas in July. Too soon or just right?

It’s early July. The sun is shining, ice lollies are melting, and children are still counting down the days until the school holidays begin. 

But walk into some charity shops or certain retail outlets and you may already be greeted by a sight that causes some to smile and others to groan: rows of Christmas cards, festive wrapping paper, and seasonal trinkets.

So the big question is—is it ever too early to put Christmas stock out on your shelves?

The Case For Early Christmas Stock

Some businesses argue that putting Christmas stock out early is simply about being prepared, and meeting customer demand. 

Christmas planning often begins well before summer ends, especially for organised shoppers who want to spread the cost of gifts, cards and decorations over several months.

Charity shops, in particular, may benefit from an early festive rollout. Many rely heavily on seasonal sales to fund their work, and having Christmas cards or gift wrap available early can catch the attention of those looking for affordable, meaningful items. 

It’s also a practical issue: smaller shops often have limited storage space, so putting items on display is often more convenient than keeping them tucked away in the back.

There’s also the “nostalgia and joy” factor. For some customers, seeing Christmas stock, even in July, is a reminder of comfort, tradition and cheer. 

It’s not uncommon for shoppers to pick up a few cards or stocking fillers when they see them, even if they aren’t yet fully embracing the festive spirit.

The Argument Against a Premature Festive Rush

On the other hand, many consumers see early Christmas stock as an unwelcome intrusion. The term Christmas creep, the phenomenon of retailers introducing festive merchandise earlier and earlier each year—is often used in a critical sense. Critics say it robs the season of its magic, extending it so far that it loses its specialness.

There’s also concern that early exposure can fuel unnecessary spending and seasonal stress. When you’re bombarded with Christmas messages while still shopping for summer barbecues, it can feel overwhelming or even cynical.

And then there’s the environmental argument: early stock means longer display times, which can lead to more unsold seasonal waste, particularly for lower-quality or novelty items that lose appeal quickly.

So, When Is the Right Time?

There’s no universal answer, and it often depends on your business model, space, stock levels, and customer base.

For charity shops, an early rollout in July may be pragmatic and profitable, especially for cards and smaller gift items.

For larger retailers, mid-September to early October is often seen as a more acceptable window, after the summer holidays and once the autumn mood starts to settle in.

For shoppers, it might just come down to personal tolerance. Some people are ready to embrace the magic in July, while others would rather wait until the first frost.

Ultimately, putting out Christmas stock early isn’t inherently “wrong” but it should be done with care, intention, and an understanding of your customers. A small festive corner in July might bring joy to a few and boost sales for good causes. But for others, it’s a reminder that the commercial machine never sleeps.

So next time you see Santa’s face peeking out from the shelves in the middle of summer, remember: you don’t have to buy into it, but someone else probably will.