How to Use Cyber Monday to Score Brilliant Bargain Christmas Gifts

Make the most of Cyber Monday with smart tips for finding brilliant bargain Christmas gifts. Discover how to save money, shop smarter and get ahead with festive preparations.

Cyber Monday has become one of the biggest online shopping days of the year, and for anyone preparing for Christmas, it’s a golden opportunity. 

From tech treats to cosy winter warmers, this is the moment to snap up gifts at prices that won’t stretch your festive budget. 

With a little planning and a few clever tricks, you can make Cyber Monday work for you and tick off a huge chunk of your Christmas list.

What Is Cyber Monday?

Cyber Monday falls on the first Monday after US Thanksgiving and has grown into a global online shopping event. While Black Friday tends to focus on in-store and broad discounts, Cyber Monday is renowned for its flash deals, online exclusives and limited-time reductions across hundreds of retailers.

For UK shoppers, it’s the perfect chance to stock up on Christmas gifts without the December price spike.

Why Cyber Monday Is Ideal for Christmas Shopping

1. You’ll Find Big Savings on Big-Ticket Items

Whether it’s a new tablet for a teenager, upgraded headphones for your commute-loving partner or smart home gadgets for the tech fan in your life, Cyber Monday is prime time for discounts on electronics and premium items.

2. Many Retailers Offer Online-Only Bundles

Gift sets, special online bundles and exclusive colourways often drop on Cyber Monday only. These can be great for stocking fillers, beauty hampers and practical gifts like kitchen gadgets and hobby tools.

3. It Helps Spread the Cost of Christmas

Shopping early takes the pressure off December spending. Getting ahead also means you avoid last-minute delivery fees or panic buying at higher prices.

Top Tips to Make the Most of Cyber Monday

Make a List (and Stick to It)

Plan exactly who you’re buying for and what they might enjoy. This stops impulse purchases and keeps your budget intact. If you run multiple festive events or secret Santa swaps, include those on your list too.

Use Price Trackers

Sites and browser extensions that track pricing history show whether a discount is genuine. This helps you avoid fake “was £99, now £49!” deals that were never really £99 to begin with.

Shop Early in the Day

The best deals often launch at midnight or early morning. Popular gifts can sell out within hours, especially toys, gaming gear and premium beauty items.

Look Out for Stacked Discounts

Many shops offer:

Extra percentages off if you sign up to their newsletter

Free delivery thresholds

Additional cashback via certain payment cards or apps

Using these together can turn a good deal into a brilliant one.

Don’t Forget Small UK Businesses

Cyber Monday isn’t just for the big retailers. Many independent makers and small UK brands run their own online promotions. These smaller shops often provide unique gifts, handmade items and personalised presents you won’t find anywhere else.

Great Christmas Gifts to Look For on Cyber Monday

Tech gifts: tablets, wireless earphones, smart speakers

Beauty & grooming sets: great for stocking fillers and luxury gifts

Toys and games: especially bestselling board games and STEM toys

Home & kitchen items: air fryers, coffee makers, heated throws

Subscription gifts: magazines, streaming services, food boxes

Fashion & footwear: winter coats, boots, scarves, knitwear

Final Thoughts

Cyber Monday gives you the perfect chance to save money, shop smarter and get ahead with your Christmas preparations. With a bit of planning and a keen eye for the best offers, you can fill your stockings, treat your loved ones and still stay well within budget.

If you’re ready to kick off your festive shopping, grab a cup of tea, settle in and start browsing, you might be surprised by how much you can save before December even begins.

Age Concern Hampshire Extends Partnership with SNG to Combat Social Isolation Among Older People

Age Concern Hampshire is proud to announce the continuation of its valued partnership with SNG (Sovereign Network Group) to deliver social groups aimed at reducing social isolation and improving wellbeing among older people across Basingstoke, Overton, Whitchurch, Fordingbridge, and Totton.

Christmas can be especially isolating for older people. 

With support from SNG, Age Concern Hampshire will run a variety of social groups that bring people together in safe, welcoming, and engaging environments. The groups focus on physical and mental wellbeing, while creating opportunities for older people to socialise, connect, and build lasting friendships.

The social groups are open to all older people in the local community, as well as residents of the housing schemes. This ensures that everyone has the chance to take part, enjoy the activities, and build connections across the wider community.

Social isolation remains one of the biggest challenges facing older people today. Many experience loneliness due to reduced mobility, limited transport options, or the loss of loved ones. By participating in these social groups, older people can stay active, try new activities such as gentle exercise and creative workshops, and enjoy companionship in a supportive and friendly environment.

“We’re delighted to be continuing our partnership with SNG,” Brogan Rehill, Head of Fundraising and Volunteer Services at Age Concern Hampshire told That's Christmas 365.

“These social groups make such a difference and help those attending to stay active, build friendships, and feel part of a supportive community. Tackling loneliness and isolation remains at the heart of what we do, and partnerships like this allow us to reach those who might otherwise be left behind. 

"We’d love to expand this model to more supported housing schemes for older people across Hampshire, where around 12% of residents aged 65 and over live in similar settings. By working together, we can ensure even more people benefit from connection, companionship, and a sense of belonging.”

Stevie Chadwick, Community Investment & Partnership Manager at SNG, said: “At SNG, we’re committed to supporting our communities to live well and thrive. 

"We’re proud to continue our partnership with Age Concern Hampshire, whose groups are making a real difference to the lives of our customers. The positive feedback we’ve received from customers has been incredibly heartening; these sessions support them to feel healthier and more connected. It’s a powerful reminder of the impact that meaningful connection and community support can have on wellbeing.”

This partnership is part of Age Concern Hampshire’s ongoing commitment to support older people through social groups, volunteer-led programmes, and community initiatives that promote wellbeing and connection across the county.

https://www.ageconcernhampshire.org.uk

Why not look at providing similar services in your area?

Winter market, food, family games, The Youth Zone that has it all

Legacy Youth Zone is hosting their annual Winter Community Day on Saturday, the 6th of December 2025. 

Legacy Youth Zone is a state-of-the-art youth provision in the heart of Croydon and is going to be celebrating the festive season by hosting their annual Winter Community Day. Think Christmas Markets, food, festive fun, family games, and so much more.

Legacy will be opening its doors to the community of Croydon and the surrounding areas for a day to remember and celebrate. Anyone who is interested in going can sign up for a ticket via their Eventbrite page, which can be found here - bit.ly/43ru2mT

They will have activities for the whole family, including Santa’s Grotto, Christmas Stories, Christmas Photos, Winter Roller Skating, Winter Baking, Elf Roulette, Pin the Rudolph, Wrap the Staff, and so much more!

Legacy Youth Zone is committed to providing a safe, positive and inspiring environment for young people from Croydon and surrounding areas. The Winter Community Day continues its mission to bring the community together, support young people’s wellbeing and celebrate the festive season in a welcoming space.

Legacy warmly welcomes families and individuals from the local area to book their free tickets and join them for a joyful afternoon of community, connection, and celebration. Please register early to secure your place.

https://legacyyouthzone.org/

Elder launches national winter care concerns survey to capture the voice of families

Elder, the UK’s leading care home care platform, has today launched its Winter Care Concerns National Survey, inviting families with elderly loved ones to help capture key insights about their greatest anxieties as winter and Christmas approaches.

In 2024–25, flu hospitalisations in the UK reached record levels, while Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) remained a significant cause of hospitalisation and death in older adults. The NHS also estimated that 10% of excess winter deaths (EWD) are attributable to fuel poverty and 21.5% to cold homes.

More than two million people in England over the age of 75 live alone, meaning they face increased risks of isolation, illness and injury during winter.

Having facilitated over 15 million hours of home care, Elder’s survey findings will be used to inform care practices, shape policy advocacy and better support older people to remain safe, warm and connected in their own homes.

Elder Founder and CEO Pete Dowds said the survey would act as a timely reminder to local communities, councils and government about the realities that older adults and their families face in winter.

“We hope this survey sparks a broader conversation about what winter truly feels like for families and their elderly loved ones, many who live alone and unassisted,” he told That's Christmas. 

“It’s a reminder that keeping our elders warm, connected and cared for takes a whole-community effort, one that extends far beyond the care sector.”

How to participate

Families can complete the survey via the link here. Contributions will directly feed into Elder’s advocacy, research reports and service improvements for winter care. All answers will remain anonymous.

https://www.elder.org/live-in-care

Could your business make the Nice List this Christmas?

Scottish amputee charity calls on workplaces to give back where it really counts.

Every day in Scotland, people lose limbs through illnesses like diabetes, cancer and sepsis. 

What happens next can be devastating - isolation, loss of confidence, and the fear that life will never feel normal again.

That’s where Finding Your Feet steps in. The Scottish charity supports people living with amputation or limb absence through counselling, fitness sessions, and social clubs that rebuild confidence and community.

This Christmas, FYF is calling on businesses to join their ‘Nice List’, a festive fundraising campaign packed with 12 fun and easy ways for offices to give back while having a laugh along the way.

From jumper days and bake-offs to quizzes and desk-decorating competitions, every event helps raise funds that keep FYF’s life-changing support going strong across Scotland.

Zoey, Fundraising Manager at FYF, says the campaign is about helping companies find meaning in their Christmas celebrations:

“We know offices love a good jumper day or quiz, and we don’t want to stop that - we just want to make it count. The FYF Nice List gives workplaces everything they need to turn festive fun into real impact. One team day could fund a counselling session or help an amputee take their first swim lesson,” she told That's Christmas 365.

Companies can download The FYF Nice List and access fundraising posters, templates and toolkits at www.findingyourfeet.net/christmasgiving.

They can also support through EasyFundraising, Alternative Gifting, or by nominating FYF as their Charity of the Year for 2026.

So before the Christmas shop begins, FYF is asking one simple thing:

Get on the Nice List and help someone find their feet again.

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

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

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

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

The Toys That Defined an Era

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

Transformers and Action Figures

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

Cabbage Patch Kids

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

Rubik’s Cube

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

Big Wheels, BMXs and Skateboards

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

Handheld Electronic Games

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

Christmas Telly We Still Talk About

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

The Big Films

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

Festive Specials

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

Children’s TV

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

Decorations, Tinsel and Retro Sparkle

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

Tinsel Everywhere

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

Coloured Fairy Lights

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

Shiny Baubles and Paper Chains

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

The Tree Topper Debate

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

Festive Food and Family Traditions

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

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

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

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

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

Why ’80s Christmas Still Charms Us

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

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

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

Is Die Hard a Christmas Movie? Let’s Settle This Once and For All (With a Wink!)

There are few festive debates as enduring, or as enthusiastically argued, as the annual question: Is Die Hard a Christmas movie? 

Every December, families across the UK gather for mince pies, mulled wine, and the inevitable good-natured bickering about whether John McClane belongs alongside the 1951 A Christmas Carol, It’s a Wonderful Life and not to forget The Muppet Christmas Carol.

So, in the spirit of seasonal cheer (and mild chaos), let’s take a playful look at both sides of the argument before delivering the definitive answer. Well… sort of.

The Case For Die Hard Being a Christmas Movie

Those in favour stand proud and firm — like a heroic action star walking barefoot across broken glass.

1. It’s literally set on Christmas Eve

Not “around Christmastime”. Not “in winter”. Christmas Eve. At a Christmas party. With tinsel. That’s pretty strong evidence.

2. Christmas music is everywhere

Run-DMC’s Christmas in Hollis sets the tone. We hear festive favourites throughout. Even the closing song wishes us a merry Christmas. If music makes a Christmas film Christmas-y, Die Hard qualifies.

3. The theme of reconciliation is pure Christmas tradition

John wants to mend things with Holly. Families reconnecting? Hearts softening? That’s prime festive material. Actually, is the name of the hero's wife, Holly, perhaps a producer's nod to it being a Christmas movie? 

4. There are presents

Granted: one of the presents is a machine gun (“Ho-ho-ho…”), but let’s not be snobby about alternative gift-giving cultures.

5. Hans Gruber falls from a great height — which is practically a panto tradition

“Oh no he didn’t!”

“Oh yes he did!”

6. It’s become an annual ritual

If you watch it every December without fail… congratulations. It’s a Christmas movie to you. And that counts for something.

The Case Against It

For balance, and to keep the peace at the table, here are the counter-arguments.

1. It’s an action film first, Christmas film second

Most Christmas movies don’t feature a body count, explosions, and endless gunfire. Elf this is not.

2. Remove Christmas from the plot… and it still works

You could set the Nakatomi incident in July at the office summer BBQ and the story wouldn’t fold in half.

3. There’s no Santa, snow, reindeer, or magical lesson

Unless you count “always check the ventilation ducts”, which admittedly is quite practical.

4. Hans Gruber is not a festive villain

He doesn’t want to steal Christmas. He wants the bearer bonds. Not very Christmassy.

So… What’s the Verdict?

Here at That’s Christmas 365, we believe in festive inclusivity. Some people love pudding. Some prefer trifle. Some think Die Hard is a Christmas film. Some think it isn’t.

But we can reveal the definitive, conclusive, scholarly truth:

If you watch it at Christmas, it’s a Christmas movie. If you don’t, it isn’t.

There you go. Argument settled. John McClane may not wear a Santa hat (although that ho-ho-ho jumper counts for partial credit), but he brings families together every year — even if it’s just to argue about him.

Final Die Hard Thought

Whether you’re Team Christmas Movie or Team Absolutely Not, pop it on this December, grab a plate of leftover turkey sandwiches, turn down the lights, and enjoy the explosions.

And remember:

Now I have a machine gun. Ho-ho-ho.

Happy watching — and happy debating!

Eco-Friendly Christmas Decorations and Wrapping Ideas – Sustainable but Still Stunning

Christmas is the season of sparkle, warmth and celebration, but it can also create a surprising and concerning amount of waste. 

From single-use wrapping paper, that can't be recycled, to plastic decorations that last only a season, the environmental impact soon adds up. 

But here's some good news? You can still enjoy all the magic of Christmas while choosing beautifully sustainable, planet-friendly options for your home.

Here are some inspiring ways to keep your festivities gorgeous and green this year.

Why Choose Eco-Friendly Christmas Decor?

Reduces landfill waste – much seasonal décor is thrown away after only a few weeks.

Saves money – reusable and natural decorations often cost less in the long run.

Supports small and ethical makers – many sustainable items come from independent UK creators.

Creates a charming, timeless Christmas look – nature-inspired décor feels instantly cosy and classic.

1. Bring the Outdoors Indoors

Nature provides some of the most stunning Christmas decorations of all.

Try these:

Foraged foliage garlands using holly, pine, ivy and rosemary.

Pine cone centrepieces dusted with a touch of biodegradable glitter.

Dried orange slices hung on twine for a festive pop of colour and citrus scent.

Fresh greenery wreaths made at home or at local craft workshops.

Tip: Foraging? Always follow local guidelines and gather responsibly.

2. Reusable Decorations That Look Beautiful Year After Year

Investing in high-quality, long-lasting decorations reduces waste and builds memories.

Ideas that last:

Wooden ornaments and laser-cut designs.

Fabric bunting or felt garlands that replace plastic tinsel.

Handcrafted ceramic baubles made by UK potters.

LED fairy lights that are energy-efficient and long-lasting.

Choose a colour scheme that will still feel stylish in years to come – soft gold, forest green, and deep red never go out of fashion.

3. Upcycled and Handmade Decorations

Upcycling gives unwanted items a second life – and creates unique décor with plenty of charm.

Try:

Salt dough decorations – perfect for families.

Old jam jar lanterns with tealights or LED candles, or LED light strings coiled up inside.

Scrap-fabric ribbon from old clothes, duvet covers or craft leftovers.

Repurposed wooden pallets turned into rustic Christmas trees or display boards.

These projects are great for crafting days, school holidays or cosy winter evenings.

4. Sustainable Christmas Wrapping Ideas

Traditional wrapping paper often contains foil, plastic film or glitter, making it unrecyclable. But sustainable wrapping can be even more beautiful.

Eco-friendly alternatives:

Brown kraft paper decorated with stamps, dried foliage or fabric bows.

Furoshiki cloth wrapping, using scarves, tea towels or purpose-made cloths.

Newspaper or old maps for a vintage, quirky look.

Recycled wrapping paper from verified eco brands.

Reusable gift bags that become part of the present.

Add twine or natural jute string instead of plastic ribbon for an elegant finishing touch.

5. Choose Recyclable and Compostable Accents

Little details make big differences.

Switch to biodegradable glitter.

Use paper tape instead of plastic Sellotape, or use the new eco-friendly Sellotape® Zero Plastic, which is a plant-based tape is made with cellulose film and naturally based glue, both derived from plant-based renewable resources.

Opt for compostable gift tags or cut your own from card offcuts.

These small swaps help keep your wrapping fully recyclable from top to bottom.

6. Go Digital Where You Can

Christmas cards remain a beloved UK tradition, but digital options are gaining popularity.

Send digital cards to friends who prefer them.

Share family photo updates by email.

Create digital gift receipts and wishlists instead of printed papers.

Mixing physical and digital choices helps reduce printing and postage waste while keeping the connection with loved ones.

A Greener Christmas Still Sparkles

Choosing eco-friendly options doesn’t mean sacrificing style. In fact, natural textures, handcrafted touches and thoughtful wrapping often look more elegant and heartfelt than mass-produced alternatives. This year, let your home shine with decorations that celebrate both Christmas joy and care for the planet.

Your sustainable Christmas can be every bit as magical – and maybe even more meaningful.

Make the Most of Black Friday: A Smart Way to Source Your Christmas Gifts and Festive Foods

Use Black Friday to make Christmas easier and more affordable with smart ways to source gifts, festive foods, and seasonal treats. 

A simple guide to planning ahead, supporting small UK businesses, and stocking up early for a stress-free Christmas.

Black Friday may have started life as an American tradition, but it has become one of the UK’s biggest shopping events. 

For anyone preparing early for Christmas, it’s the perfect opportunity to pick up thoughtful gifts, stock up on festive favourites, and lighten the load before December arrives.

Below you’ll find simple ways to use Black Friday to make your Christmas planning easier, cheaper, and more enjoyable.

Plan Ahead for the Best Savings

A little preparation helps keep your shopping focused and stress-free.

Before Black Friday begins:

Write your Christmas gift list

Note down any food or drink you want for parties and family gatherings

Bookmark items you’re hoping to buy

Keep an eye on early hints and preview deals

When you shop with a plan, you avoid impulse buys and make the most of genuine savings.

Support Small British Businesses

The big chains get most of the attention, but many independent makers join in with Black Friday too. This is a brilliant time to support small UK producers while saving a bit of money.

Look out for:

Handmade decorations

Small-batch gins and local ales

Artisan cheeses and chutneys

Unique gifts from British craftspeople

Buying local adds heart to your Christmas and keeps money in the community.

Stock Up on Festive Foods Early

It’s not just electronics and toys on offer. Lots of supermarkets and online retailers discount Christmas treats and essentials on Black Friday.

Great items to buy ahead include:

Luxury biscuits and chocolates

Panettones, stollens, and Christmas cakes

Cheeses and charcuterie boards

Wines, gins, whiskies, and craft beers

Frozen party foods

Long-life items for buffets and cosy nights in

Buying now spreads the cost and helps you avoid the busy December shelves.

Make Use of Loyalty Points and Voucher Codes

Some retailers offer bonus loyalty points or extra voucher codes during the Black Friday period.

Check your supermarket apps, wine clubs, and online gift retailers to see whether you can combine discounts.

Every little extra helps at Christmastime.

Consider Experience Gifts

Experience gifts are always popular and often heavily reduced. They make meaningful presents and suit all ages.

Look out for discounts on:

Theatre and concert tickets

Afternoon tea and restaurant vouchers

Spa days

Family attraction passes

Craft workshops or festive experiences

They’re easy to wrap, easy to personalise, and often excellent value during Black Friday.

Check Delivery Dates Before You Buy

December deliveries can be slow thanks to cold weather, courier delays, and heavy Christmas demand. Shopping early means your parcels arrive in plenty of time.

Many retailers offer free or discounted delivery during Black Friday too, making it an even better time to stock up.

Shop Mindfully and Avoid Pitfalls

To make sure you’re getting genuine bargains:

Compare prices across several shops

Ignore anything you only want because it’s reduced. If you didn't want it yesterday, do you really need it today?

Be cautious about “final sale” items

Read reviews before buying

A great deal is only great when it actually helps your Christmas plans.

Start Christmas Calmly and Confidently

Using Black Friday wisely helps you gather gifts, treats, and essentials without the usual December pressure. With your preparations already underway, you can enjoy a calmer, cosier, and more joyful lead-up to Christmas.

How to Celebrate Thanksgiving Day in the UK in Honour of Your American Friends and Family

Thanksgiving may be an American holiday at heart, but here in the UK many of us have friends, family members, colleagues, or even readers across the Atlantic,  and marking the day can be a lovely way to show appreciation for the people who enrich our lives. 

Whether you’ve lived in the United States yourself, have American relatives, or simply enjoy an excuse for a hearty seasonal feast, Thanksgiving can easily become a cherished celebration on this side of the pond.

If you’re thinking of hosting a UK-based Thanksgiving gathering this year, here are some enjoyable and meaningful ways to join in with the spirit of the day.

Plan a Traditional Meal — with a British Twist?

The centrepiece of Thanksgiving is, of course, the meal. While American classics like roast turkey, mashed potatoes, pumpkin pie, green bean casserole and cranberry sauce are staples, you can happily blend these with British favourites.

Ideas for your menu:

Roast turkey or chicken with sage and onion stuffing

Cranberry sauce (homemade or shop-bought — nobody will judge!)

A tray of roasted root veg, Yorkshire puds and buttery mash

Sweet potato mash or a sweet potato bake

A pumpkin or apple pie for pudding

If you have American guests, they’ll appreciate a nod to home. If you're celebrating with British friends, they’ll enjoy discovering new festive dishes.

Share What You’re Grateful For

Thanksgiving is ultimately about gratitude, and adding a moment of reflection elevates the meal into something more heartfelt.

You could:

Invite everyone to say one thing they’re thankful for

Make little paper leaves where guests can jot down their thoughts

Create a “gratitude jar” to fill with notes throughout the evening

It’s a simple, touching way to honour the holiday’s true spirit.

Add a Touch of American Flair

Decor doesn’t need to be elaborate. A few well-chosen touches will set the mood:

Mini pumpkins or gourds on the table

Warm autumnal colours: burnt orange, deep reds, golds

A playlist of American classics or country music

Napkins or bunting featuring subtle stars and stripes

A cosy, autumnal ambiance is all you need.

Include American Friends and Family Virtually

If your loved ones are in the States, time zones permitting, a video call during the day or after the meal can bring everyone together.

You might:

Toast each other over Zoom

Swap recipes

Share photos of your respective dinners

Let American relatives judge your pumpkin pie efforts — at their peril!

It’s a lovely way to make the occasion feel connected and communal.

Watch an American Film or TV Special

Thanksgiving episodes are practically an American art form. After dinner, curl up with:

Friends Thanksgiving specials

Modern Family

A feel-good film like Planes, Trains and Automobiles

American football highlights for the truly committed

It rounds off the evening in classic US style.

Support a Good Cause

Many Americans mark Thanksgiving by helping others, whether through charity dinners or food drives. You could follow the same spirit by:

Donating to a UK foodbank

Supporting a warm spaces project

Bringing extra tins for a collection basket

Encouraging guests to chip in

It’s a meaningful, thoughtful nod to the holiday’s values.

A Celebration of Friendship and Connection

Thanksgiving in the UK isn’t about copying the American holiday exactly — it’s about celebrating the people in our lives, acknowledging how fortunate we are, and enjoying a delicious seasonal meal together.

Whether your table is full of British friends recreating American recipes or you’re joined by relatives who’ve flown across the pond, marking Thanksgiving here is a lovely way to honour traditions, share cultures, and create lasting memories.