A Traditional Indian Christmas Feast: Flavours, Family and Festive Joy

Christmas in India is a vibrant blend of faith, family and fabulous food. 

While the country is home to many cultures and cuisines, its Christian communities, from Kerala to Goa, from Mumbai to the North East, have developed rich Christmas traditions that combine local flavours with centuries-old heritage.

If you fancy celebrating the season with something a little different this year, an Indian Christmas feast offers colour, spice and heart-warming dishes that are perfect for gathering your loved ones around the table.

The Heart of the Celebration

Although Christmas menus vary across India, one thing is universal: food brings everyone together. Preparations often begin days in advance, with households filling their kitchens with the aromas of roasting spices, baking fruit-rich cakes and simmering curries.

Christmas Day normally starts with church services, followed by home visits, open houses and a big family meal. Many communities exchange plates of homemade sweets with their neighbours – a gesture known in Goa and parts of Karnataka as “Kuswar.”

Star Dishes of an Indian Christmas Feast

1. Goan Roast Pork Sorpotel

A Goan Christmas classic, sorpotel is a richly spiced pork dish slow-cooked with vinegar, chilli and aromatics. Its tangy, fiery depth pairs beautifully with soft pão, the traditional Portuguese-influenced bread rolls baked in local bakeries.

2. Kerala Christmas Chicken Roast

In Kerala, families often serve Nadan Chicken Roast, a deep red, slow-roasted chicken cooked with caramelised onions, curry leaves, black pepper and aromatic spices. It's usually accompanied by appam (fermented rice pancakes) or fragrant ghee rice.

3. Anglo-Indian Plum Cake

Every region has its version of Christmas cake, but the Indian plum cake is especially beloved. Typically soaked for weeks in rum or fruit juice, the dried fruits give this cake its deep flavour. Bakeries across India begin selling plum cakes from early December – and queues can be long!

4. Mutton Biryani

A festive biryani always feels special, and for Christmas many families prepare an elaborate mutton biryani with saffron, fried onions and warming spices. Often the centrepiece of the table, it’s served with cooling raita and crisp pappadums.

5. Kuswar: The Sweet Spread

In Goa and Mangalorean homes, plates of Kuswar fill the table. These can include:

Neureos – deep-fried pastries filled with coconut and jaggery

Kalkals – tiny, sugar-dusted fried curls

Bebinca – a layered Goan pudding made with coconut milk, eggs and ghee

Rose cookies – lacy, floral-shaped treats dipped in batter and fried

No Indian Christmas celebration feels complete without an assortment of these sweets.

Vegetarian Delights for Christmas

Many Indian families follow vegetarian traditions, especially in parts of South India. Popular dishes include:

Vegetable Cutlets – lightly spiced patties of potato and veg, crumb-coated and fried

Paneer Butter Masala – rich, creamy and perfect with naan

Vegetable Stew with Appam – aromatic and comforting

Jeera Rice and Dal Tadka – simple but flavour-packed sides that appeal to all ages

These dishes are often served with homemade pickles and chutneys, creating a beautifully balanced festive meal.

Drinks to Complete the Feast

An Indian Christmas table often includes warming drinks such as:

Homemade wine (especially in Kerala and Goa)

Masala chai with ginger, cardamom and cloves

Spiced coffee

Tender coconut water in coastal regions

Some families also prepare a festive punch made with citrus, ginger and spices.

Bringing an Indian Christmas Home

You don’t need to be in India to enjoy the brightness of an Indian Christmas feast. A few ideas to help you celebrate:

Add a spicy centrepiece like biryani or Kerala roast chicken to your Christmas menu.

Bake an Anglo-Indian fruit-soaked plum cake instead of (or alongside) the traditional British version.

Create your own Kuswar platter to share with family, neighbours and colleagues.

Decorate your home with bright colours, oil lamps and fragrant spices such as cinnamon and cloves.

Play festive songs in English, Hindi, Malayalam or Konkani to set the mood.

It’s a wonderful way to honour another culture while adding something unique to your own celebrations.

A traditional Indian Christmas feast is a joyful blend of heritage, generosity and flavour. Whether you’re hosting an Indian-themed Christmas dinner or simply looking to add a touch of spice to your holiday table, these dishes and traditions offer warmth worth sharing.

Why not try an Indian Christmas this year? 

Give the Gift of Improved Hearing This Christmas

Christmas is all about togetherness, bustling family gatherings, lively parties, favourite films on telly, and chatting with loved ones you may not see often. 

It’s also, quite surprisingly, one of the key times of year when people realise they may be struggling with their hearing.

If you’ve ever found yourself nudging the TV volume higher than everyone else prefers, or if a festive party leaves you smiling and nodding through conversations you can’t quite catch, you’re certainly not alone. 

Many people first notice hearing changes during the louder, busier days of December. And at family gatherings, having to ask people to repeat themselves can feel frustrating or even a little embarrassing.

This Christmas, why not consider giving someone, or yourself, a gift that genuinely improves quality of life: hearing support.

Why Christmas Makes Hearing Difficulties More Noticeable

1. The telly test

Christmas films, the King’s Speech, and a marathon of festive specials often highlight changes in hearing. If you need the volume far louder than everyone else, it’s worth checking whether it’s more than just preference.

2. Seasonal socialising

Parties, dinners, and pub meet-ups come with background music, clinking glasses, and overlapping conversations. If deciphering speech becomes hard work, that’s a sign worth paying attention to.

3. Family gatherings

Large dining tables, excited children, and multiple conversations at once can strain hearing. Asking people to repeat themselves can feel awkward, but it’s a very common experience for those with early hearing loss.

The Practical, Life-Changing Gift: Hearing Support Vouchers

Instead of guessing at presents or buying yet another novelty jumper, you can give someone something that truly matters: the opportunity to improve their hearing.

Many audiology clinics and hearing centres offer hearing aid vouchers, which can be used towards:

A professional hearing test

Hearing aids tailored to the individual

Assistive listening devices

Follow-up checks or adjustments

Accessories such as rechargeable batteries or cleaning tools

This type of gift can be a gentle, supportive way to help someone take the first step. It’s not intrusive or patronising – it simply gives them the means to explore better hearing when they’re ready.

Why This Makes a Brilliant Christmas Gift

It’s thoughtful

You’re giving someone the chance to enjoy clearer conversations, more relaxed social events, and everyday confidence.

It’s long-lasting

Many gifts get forgotten by New Year. Improved hearing transforms daily life for years to come.

It helps keep people connected

Hearing changes can feel isolating. This gift offers connection, clarity, and comfort.

It can be life-enhancing

Better hearing supports mental wellbeing, reduces strain on relationships, and helps people stay active and engaged.

How to Give Hearing Aid Vouchers

Contact local independent audiologists or major high-street service providers

Ask whether they offer gift vouchers for hearing tests or hearing aids

Present the voucher in a festive card explaining that you want them to enjoy every conversation without strain

Reassure them it’s entirely up to them when and how they use it

A Christmas Filled with Clearer Conversations

Whether it’s for a parent who turns the telly up too high, a partner who struggles in noisy restaurants, or even a gift to yourself, hearing support is a thoughtful and genuinely helpful present.

Christmas is about connecting with the people we love. Giving the gift of improved hearing helps make every laugh, every joke, and every shared story a little clearer – not just on Christmas Day, but all year long.

In closing, let me point out that getting a hearing aid was probably one of the best decisions that I have made in recent years. 

How to Avoid Catching the Mutated Flu Virus Sweeping Britain

A practical, reassuring guide for a safer, more healthy Christmas.

As Britain gears up for the festive season, many of us are juggling gift lists, food prep, travel plans and party invitations. 

Unfortunately, this year we’re also contending with a mutated strain of flu that’s making its way rapidly through workplaces, schools and social events, having cunningly side-stepped the vaccination programme. 

Nobody wants to spend Christmas Day under a duvet with a thermometer and a box of tissues. So here’s a clear, sensible guide to help you reduce your risk, stay well, and enjoy the season’s celebrations.

Keep Your Hands Clean (It Still Works Wonders)

Handwashing remains one of the most effective ways to stop flu viruses spreading.

Wash with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds.

Keep a small bottle of hand sanitiser in your coat pocket or bag when out Christmas shopping.

After using public transport, handling coins, or touching door handles in busy shops, sanitise or wash your hands as soon as you can.

It’s simple, quick and reduces your chances of picking up unwanted germs.

Give Your Immune System a Helping Hand

A strong immune system isn’t a guarantee, but it makes a real difference.

Eat well: Include fruit, vegetables, whole grains, nuts and lean proteins in your meals.

Stay hydrated: Cold weather often makes us forget to drink enough.

Get enough rest: Late-night wrapping sessions are fun, but sleep is essential for immune function.

Consider a flu jab: If you’re eligible or simply want extra protection, check with your GP or pharmacy. You can have NHS or private vaccinations. 

Ventilate Your Home and Party Spaces

Christmas often involves cosy, closed rooms packed with people — ideal conditions for viruses.

Open windows for short bursts throughout the day.

If you’re hosting, let in a little fresh air between guests arriving and food being served.

In pubs, cafés or parties, pick spots with some airflow where possible.

Good ventilation reduces the concentration of airborne viruses without making the room chilly.

Be Sensible About Crowds

This isn’t about avoiding fun — simply being aware.

Choose quieter times to shop if you can.

If attending a very crowded indoor event, consider wearing a mask (especially if you’re vulnerable or visiting elderly relatives soon).

Keep a respectful distance if someone nearby is coughing or sneezing.

Don’t Share Drinks, Snacks or Utensils

It sounds obvious, but Christmas buffets often lead to accidental cross-over.

Avoid double-dipping.

Don’t hand round drinks for taste tests.

Use serving spoons rather than fingers when nibbling from platters.

It’s not killjoy advice — it’s about keeping festivities flu-free.

Wrap Up Warm (It Makes a Difference)

Cold air itself doesn’t cause flu, but sudden temperature drops can make your body more vulnerable.

Wear layers when out carolling or attending Christmas markets.

Keep scarves and gloves handy.

Dry off and warm up after being caught in winter rain.

Comfort helps your body stay resilient.

Stay Home If You’re Unwell

If you wake up with flu symptoms — high temperature, aches, exhaustion, a heavy cough — give yourself permission to rest and recover.

Cancel events if you need to.

Let friends and family know you’re keeping your germs to yourself.

It’s far better to miss one outing than risk ruining Christmas for someone else.

Most people appreciate the honesty.

Christmas is meant to be joyful, social and uplifting — and with a few simple precautions, we can all enjoy it while staying as healthy as possible. The mutated flu virus may be circulating, but good hygiene, sensible planning and a little consideration for others go a long way.

Stay warm, stay well, and have a wonderfully festive season. 

The History of Gingerbread: From Ancient Spice to Christmas Favourite

Few festive treats feel as timeless and comforting as gingerbread. 

Whether it’s shaped into biscuits, crafted into enchanting houses, or baked into rich loaves, gingerbread has become a much-loved part of Christmas across Britain and beyond. 

But where did this spiced delight come from, and how did it become so firmly linked to the festive season? 

The story stretches back thousands of years and weaves together culture, trade, celebration, and a dash of Christmas magic.

Ancient Beginnings: Ginger Arrives in Europe

Gingerbread begins with one key ingredient: ginger. This fiery root was first cultivated in ancient China and quickly spread along early trade routes. By the time of the Roman Empire, ginger was prized not only for its flavour but also for its supposed medicinal properties.

Romans were known to make early versions of gingerbread, spiced honey cakes thought to help with digestion. When the Empire fell, ginger remained a treasured ingredient, though rare and expensive.

Medieval Europe: Gingerbread as a Delicacy

By the Middle Ages, ginger had made its way into the kitchens of Europe, including Britain. Medieval gingerbread bore little resemblance to the airy biscuits we know today. It was often a mixture of breadcrumbs, honey, and ground spices, pressed into moulds carved with intricate designs.

Gingerbread became especially popular at fairs, markets, and religious festivals. In fact, gingerbread shapes were often created as charms or tokens—hearts for lovers, knights for young men, even animals for children.

In England, gingerbread was so significant that towns like Market Drayton in Shropshire became renowned centres of gingerbread making, a tradition that continues today.

Royal Approval: Queen Elizabeth I and the First Gingerbread Men

The festive gingerbread figure owes much to the Tudor court. Queen Elizabeth I famously had her cooks create gingerbread biscuits shaped like her visiting dignitaries. These early “gingerbread men” were beautifully decorated and presented as personalised gifts.

This charming idea spread throughout Britain, and shaped gingerbread soon became a staple of festive banquets and celebrations.

Gingerbread and Christmas: A Perfect Pairing

So how did gingerbread become specifically connected to Christmas? There are several reasons:

1. Spices were luxury winter treats

In medieval and early modern Europe, spices such as ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves were expensive. Using them in baking was a way to celebrate special occasions, especially Christmas, the most important feast of the year.

2. Gingerbread fairs were winter traditions

Throughout Europe, winter markets and Christmas fairs were famous for stalls filled with gingerbread hearts, stars, and figures. These treats were easy to transport and lasted well in cold weather, making them ideal festive gifts.

3. Gingerbread houses added a magical twist

The tradition of gingerbread houses began in Germany, inspired in part by the Brothers Grimm tale Hansel and Gretel. Bakers began crafting elaborate little houses from spiced biscuit, decorated with sweets and icing. German immigrants later carried the tradition around the world, and it soon became a Christmas favourite.

4. Victorian Britain embraced festive baking

The Victorian era shaped much of our modern Christmas, including cards, trees, and many seasonal foods. Gingerbread biscuits, cakes, and decorative ornaments became common in British households—particularly once spices became more affordable.

Decorating gingerbread at home became a family tradition, and the scent of warm spices firmly established itself as part of the Christmas atmosphere.

Modern Gingerbread: A Festive Favourite

Today, gingerbread continues to evolve. From iced biscuits in school fairs to towering gingerbread houses in luxury hotels, gingerbread remains a symbol of creativity, warmth, and seasonal cheer.

Bakers experiment with shapes ranging from classic Christmas trees and reindeer to modern pop culture characters. And while recipes vary, the comforting aroma of ginger, cinnamon, and golden syrup remains instantly recognisable.

Why Gingerbread Still Matters at Christmastime

Gingerbread captures something special about Christmas:

Nostalgia – it reminds us of childhood baking, festive fairs, and cosy winter evenings.

Creativity – making gingerbread shapes or houses is a hands-on activity that brings people together.

Tradition – it connects us with centuries of winter celebrations across Europe.

Comfort – its warm spices make it the perfect companion to a mug of tea, mulled wine, or hot chocolate.

From ancient Chinese roots to medieval markets, Tudor courts, and Victorian homes, gingerbread has travelled a long way to become a Christmas classic. Its rich history and warm, spiced flavour ensure it remains part of the festive season for generations to come.

All Welcome to Perform in London's Biggest Christmas Carol Concert at Kings Cross

Hundreds of musicians from London and across the UK will be joining together in an enormous outdoor Christmas carol performance. 

And you can join in, too! 

The Big Christmas Wind Orchestra and Choir takes place on Saturday December 13th in Kings Cross, London, and everyone is invited to participate in their joyous celebration of carols and festive music. 

More performers are signing up every day, and they welcome anyone to join in, free of charge.

Anyone can come and perform with their wind, brass or percussion instruments, or even simply bring their voices to join their choir. 

Traditional carols from O Come All Ye Faithful to Hark the Herald Angels Sing will be featured, alongside Christmas pop classics, orchestral favourites and some beautiful, special arrangements. 

There is something on the programme for everyone, all specially-selected for the event with parts to suit all ability levels.

The performance will be held at Kings Cross, a stunning backdrop among the Christmas markets, shops and restaurants and plenty of special winter activities. 

With hundreds of musicians already registered to form the enormous ensemble among the trees and lights, festive musical fun is guaranteed.

Event co-ordinator Adam Funnell told That's Christmas 365: "our Christmas events are a highlight of the festive season for many performers, with well known carols and music performed at an unbelievable scale. 

"It's also a perfect way to get into performing as a group without diving into a commitment. We'll be playing and singing everyone's favourite carols and well known festive music to inspire everyone into music making".

The event is now in its 14th year and has steadily grown from just a handful of friends to 500 or more musicians. Performers flock to participate from across the UK, and even visitors from around the world. 

Led by expert professional musical directors, the Big Christmas Wind Orchestra and Choir always has space for more performers to join in, with no rehearsal or experience required.

Anyone wishing to perform must register online via bigchristmaswindorchestra.org so that they can be sent sheet music in advance of the day. 

They can then join the event from 1pm on Saturday December 13th, and perform all afternoon. There is no cost at all to participate, and all accessibility needs will be catered for. Audiences are also very welcome to come and watch, or even sing along!

Scottish viral trio Weegie Hink Ae That? release charity Christmas single Feeling This Christmas in support of Testicular Cancer Charity

Scottish viral trio Weegie Hink Ae That? release charity Christmas single Feeling This Christmas in support of Cahonas.

Festive track launches on International Men’s Day to raise funds and awareness for testicular cancer

Scottish comedy music trio Weegie Hink Ae That? released their brand new Christmas single Feeling This Christmas on 19 November to mark International Men’s Day. 

The track supports Cahonas Scotland’s national testicular cancer education, awareness, and support charity, by raising awareness and vital funds for their life saving work.

International Men’s Day is a key annual moment for raising awareness of men's health issues, making it a fitting date to release a single focused on early detection.

Weegie Hink Ae That? are one of Scotland’s most recognisable online comedy acts, known for their musical parodies and relatable Scottish humour. 

The trio have built a dedicated following across social media, with millions of views and a growing presence on live stages across the country. Their previous release “Seagulls of Aberdeen” charted on iTunes at number 21 and gained national media attention, making them a natural fit for a charity single that blends humour with an important public health message.

The single comes at a crucial time. Testicular cancer is the most common cancer in men aged fifteen to forty-five, yet many men do not check regularly or know what to look for. Early detection is vital, with 95% survival rates when the cancer is found early. During the festive season, health habits often slip as people become busier. Feeling This Christmas brings an important message into a moment people actually pay attention to, using humour and festive spirit to prompt more men to check.

Cahonas has become the recognised national voice on testicular cancer awareness, particularly during the Christmas period. Its annual festive campaign #CheckYerBawballs is an award-winning initiative that has reached tens of millions of people over the last decade and has received support from well-known names such as William Shatner, Mark Hamill, James McAvoy, Sam Heughan, Amy Macdonald, Zander Fagerson, and Scotland captain Andy Robertson. The charity delivers education in schools, sports clubs, workplaces, and communities while offering support to those dealing with a diagnosis.

By pairing a feel good charity single with an important message aimed at the age group most affected, the band hopes to spark conversations and positive habits during one of the busiest times of the year.

Gregor Mackay from Weegie Hink Ae That? Told That's Christmas 365: “A few years ago I spotted a collaboration between Bawbags and Cahonas Scotland. I was in my mid-twenties and had never actually thought to check myself. I did it straight away and it opened my eyes to how important it is for men to stay informed about their own health. It starts with something as simple as a check."

"We want to keep that message going and reach as many men as we can with the importance of checking early. If this single helps even a few people take that step, it will be worth it.”

Ritchie Marshall, CEO of Cahonas, added: “Christmas is a season of giving and this single gives us something priceless. It gets the message of early checking into homes, headphones, and holiday playlists in a way that feels natural. Weegie Hink Ae That? have taken our #CheckYerBawballs message and wrapped it in something uplifting, fun, and full of heart. Their support helps us reach the men who need to hear this most and we are incredibly grateful.”

Feeling This Christmas will be available across all major streaming and download platforms from 19 November. Funds raised throughout the campaign will help Cahonas continue its education, awareness, and community support work across Scotland.

Feeling This Christmas will be available on all major platforms from 19 November. Download it, stream it, share it, and help spread a message that can save lives. To find out more visit www.feelingthischristmas.com

A six-year-old reminds us that Granny needs her music more than the John Lewis Dad needs a vinyl

John Lewis may have got the message right, but Music for Dementia’s Christmas ad, shot on a shoestring budget, reveals the missing audience.

Music for Dementia has today released a powerful new Christmas film.

Inspired by the John Lewis ad, the film demonstrates the unspoken power of music, but this time in the lives of families impacted by dementia. 

The Music for Dementia campaign conceived and shot the film in just ten days on a shoestring budget, casting friends and family in the film to show how music can connect generations.

The film opens with an old woman isolated and locked out of technology as she fumbles with a vinyl record and in a poignant moment, she contemplates putting CDs into her toaster. 

She is handed a children’s audio player by her six-year-old granddaughter. With the simple inserted of a card, the Yoto Player (designed for kids but brilliantly easy to use for all ages), instantly connects her with m4dRADIO, a radio station specifically designed to give those living with dementia non-stop access to music from different decades. Immediately, the family shares a special moment of connection across three generations, and the woman’s world becomes instantly brighter.

The six-year-old star of the film is Aria Wheele, whose mother, Peyton, works for Music for Dementia. Aria, who has no previous activating experience, told That's Christmas 365: “Being on set was like stepping into a giant storybook. I got to wear a costume, and help everyone smile with music, it was cool.”

Amy Shackleton, Project Lead at Music for Dementia says: “John Lewis's Christmas campaign articulates something Music for Dementia has been advocating for years, that music connects us.

"It’s great that they are helping shine a light on the power of music, but we’re mindful that the people that need music the most often find it hardest to listen to because of barriers with technology. 

"That’s why we decided to make our own Christmas film - albeit in just a few days and with a tiny budget! We think it packs an emotional punch and hope it encourages families to help their loved ones enjoy the gift of music this Christmas.”

Recent Music for Dementia research with 1,000 family carers of people living with dementia reveals the scale of the problem: only three in ten older family carers are able to stream music with their loved one 

Age UK research paints a similar picture,they found that six in ten internet users aged 65 or over never use the internet to stream music or videos.

Music for Dementia spent the last year working with families living with dementia to understand why they struggle to listen to music, redesigning its m4dRADIO interface in order to make it easier. It’s part of the charity's Music Made Easy campaign launched earlier this year, calling on tech companies and music streamers to help older generations access their music.

It discovered that children’s tech is leading the way in creating screen-free, tactile, intuitive devices. In May of this year Music for Dementia ran a pilot trial with 180 families affected by dementia, giving them each a children’s Yoto Player and a Yoto card that when inserted, plays automatically, allowing them to listen to m4dRADIO in one simple move. 80% of families said the Yoto Player increased the amount that they were able to listen to music, and 92% of participating families would recommend screen-free music devices for older people.

Following the success of the Yoto trial, Music for Dementia is giving away 500 free Yoto kits, which include a 20% discount code for a Yoto Player, Yoto cards which give access to m4dRADIOs six non-stop music channels and handy stickers to attach to the device with easy-to-read instructions. To apply for a free Yoto kit visit https://www.musicfordementia.org.uk/yoto

Dom Hodge, Head of Music and Sound at Yoto, commented: “Yoto's screen-free, intuitive technology was designed to empower children as young as three to access audio independently, and this pilot with Music for Dementia showed that it's equally effective at connecting people living with dementia to the music they love simply and easily without screens or complicated mechanisms. 

This powerful film perfectly highlights how simple, accessible tech can break down barriers and bring joy to families through the universal power of music."

In the UK there are 940,000 people living with dementia, and this figure is projected to rise to 1.5million by 2040. Research shows music can manage dementia symptoms such as agitation and distress, bring back memories and even abilities thought lost, create moments of joy and overcome isolation.

You can learn more about Yoto here https://thatschristmas.blogspot.com/2025/09/the-yoto-player-and-yoto-mini-world-of.html

Southend Foodbank launches live festive Reverse Advent Calendar

As food banks across the country prepare for the busy festive season, Southend Foodbank is sharing the story behind its newly launched Reverse Advent Calendar campaign,  brought to life thanks to the creativity and teamwork of staff, volunteers and their families.

Every day for 24 days, the Foodbank is releasing a new short video across its social media channels, each highlighting an item on their Reverse Advent Calendar in a bid to encourage donations in the run up to Christmas.

The idea was sparked by the Foodbank’s Comms & Campaigns Coordinator, Cass Francis, and within days, everyone was pitching in to make it a reality. A life-size Advent calendar door and backdrop were hand-built and volunteers were enlisted, with recent university graduate Henry Goodchild volunteering his time to film.

Cass told That's Christmas 365: “It’s a combination of a calendar and a cuckoo clock! We had such fun filming it, with all sorts of volunteers adding their own flourish to every day on the calendar. We’ve got downloadable versions of the calendar on our website too, so people can print off a version and tick off the items as they collect them.

“It’s going to be a really tough winter for the Foodbank and the guests that visit us, we are so grateful to everyone that continues to donate food, money or their time.”

The Foodbank have even had some help from special guests to support the campaign, including former Strictly Come Dancing judge Arlene Phillips!

To download a version of the calendar, and for more information, follow Southend Foodbank on social media or visit their website southend.foodbank.org.uk/christmas-2025.

Are You Concerned About Buying Plastic Toys for Your Tots and Teens? Choose Non-Plastic Gifts This Christmas

Christmas gifting for children has changed enormously over the last few decades.

Once upon a time, toys were built from wood, metal, fabric, wool and other natural materials that aged gracefully and could be repaired or passed on. 

Fast-forward to today, and many parents are understandably concerned about the environmental impact of plastic toys, especially those that break easily or fall out of favour long before January.

If you’re hoping to shop more sustainably this season, there’s good news: there are now more non-plastic toy options than ever. 

From handcrafted wooden playsets to metal balance bikes and fabric dolls, you can fill your stockings without filling landfill.

And if you need convincing that plastic toys really do linger far longer than childhood itself, here’s a rather telling story…

The Plastic Toys That Wouldn’t Die

A friend recently shared an extraordinary anecdote from his own family home. While digging over the back garden, soil that hadn’t been disturbed for decades, he unearthed several old toys he’d played with as a child. 

They’d been buried under the earth for years, yet the plastic hadn’t rotted or broken down at all. They looked almost exactly as they had when they’d first been thrown, lost or abandoned there all those years ago.

It’s a vivid reminder that while our children grow up, the toys of their childhood do not. They often outlive the children who once adored them, and sometimes even the houses they were played in.

Why Choose Non-Plastic Toys This Christmas?

1. Better for the Planet

Natural materials such as wood, cotton, wool and metal biodegrade or can be recycled far more easily. Choosing them means reducing the long-term environmental footprint of your festive gifts.

2. Longer-Lasting and Repairable

Wooden and metal toys don’t crack or split as easily as plastic. They can be sanded, tightened, repaired and kept in the family for future generations.

3. Safer for Curious Little Ones

Many parents prefer to avoid plastics that may contain chemicals or additives. Natural materials offer peace of mind for babies and toddlers who love exploring with their mouths.

4. Timeless Charm

There’s something magical about a beautifully made wooden train set or a hand-stitched soft toy. They look lovely under the Christmas tree and often become keepsakes.

5. Support Small Makers and Local Craftspeople

Many non-plastic toys are produced by small UK businesses, woodworkers, crafters and independent shops. Choosing these gifts supports local creativity and craftsmanship.

Ideas for Non-Plastic Toys and Gifts

Wooden building blocks, jigsaw puzzles or construction kits

Perfect for toddlers right through to early teens.

Metal balance bikes, scooters or die-cast vehicles

Tough, practical and often repairable.

Fabric dolls, puppets and soft toys

With the added bonus of machine-washable bodies and clothes.

Natural craft kits

Beeswax modelling sets, wool felting kits, pottery-for-beginners and candle-making sets are hugely popular.

Classic board games made from cardboard and wood

A brilliant way to bring the family together on Christmas night.

Musical instruments

Think wooden percussion kits, recorders, ukuleles and hand drums.

A More Meaningful Christmas Morning

Choosing non-plastic toys doesn’t mean spending more or compromising on fun. In fact, these gifts often spark imagination, last far longer and feel more meaningful, especially when little ones know that Father Christmas has delivered something special they can treasure for years.

With a little mindful shopping, your Christmas can be magical, memorable and more eco-friendly. 

And with any luck, nothing you buy this year will still be lurking in someone’s back garden a generation from now.

Cost-Effective Ways to Stay Warm Over Christmas

Staying warm at Christmastime shouldn’t mean worrying about your energy bills. 

With the winter chill settling in, many households are looking for clever, affordable ways to stay cosy without cranking the heating up. 

Here are some practical, budget-friendly tips to keep your home warm and festive this season.

Layer Up for Seasonal Comfort

Layering is one of the simplest and most effective ways to keep warm. A breathable base layer, a comfy jumper, and a chunky cardigan can work wonders. Don’t forget thick socks, slippers, or even festive fluffy footwear to keep the cold at bay.

Heat the Rooms You Actually Use

There’s no need to heat the entire house if you’re spending most of your time in the lounge or bedroom. Shut doors to trap heat, and consider using an energy-efficient space heater for short bursts in the room you’re in.

Block Draughts and Trap the Warmth

Thermal curtains, draught excluders, and even rolled-up towels at the base of doors can make a surprising difference. Keeping warm air inside is half the battle during the colder months.

Cosy Up Your Bedding

Winter duvets, brushed cotton sheets, and a few extra blankets help create a warm sanctuary at bedtime. Hot water bottles and microwavable heat packs are wonderfully effective, affordable, and comforting.

Keep Moving and Stay Warm Naturally

A bit of festive bustle, wrapping gifts, dancing to Christmas tunes, or a brisk walk to admire the lights, helps boost body heat and keeps you warm without flicking the heating on.

Seasonal Food That Warms You Through

Hearty Christmas favourites such as stews, soups, and slow-cooker meals warm you from the inside out and gently heat your kitchen at the same time. Using slow cookers or air fryers can save energy while still delivering delicious winter comfort.

Use Timers and Lower Settings Wisely

If you do use your central heating, reduce the thermostat by just one degree and rely on timers. Your home stays comfortable, and your bills stay calmer.

Snuggle with Throws and Blankets

A festive throw or fleece blanket can make a cosy night on the sofa even more inviting. It’s one of the easiest ways to feel warmer, perfect for Christmas film nights.

Make the Most of Natural Light

Open your curtains during the day to welcome in whatever winter sunshine appears. Close them as dusk sets in to help retain that warmth.

Fill Your Home with People and Christmas Cheer

A room full of family and friends not only warms the atmosphere emotionally, it literally adds warmth. Christmas gatherings are good for the soul and the thermostat.

With a few simple adjustments, you can enjoy a wonderfully warm and welcoming Christmas without overspending. Embrace the cosy season, stay snug, and let your festive celebrations shine, without the extra cost.