The online source for all things Christmas
Our feline hero is invited to the Snow Queen's Ball, so he asks the magic mirror for advice on where he should go shopping for his presents.
"Boots!" says the magic mirror, so Puss in Boots takes a dangerous journey (which costs him three of his nine lives) to a branch of Boots where he buys all the presents he needs, including hand warmers for the Snow Queen.
Every year, various price comparison surveys reveal what many shoppers already suspect: Waitrose consistently ranks as the most expensive supermarket in Britain.
And it's excellent for your Christmas shopping, too.
Yet in the same breath, their stores across the country remain remarkably busy, with loyal customers who choose it over cheaper alternatives.
So why does a supermarket that charges more continue to thrive in a cost-conscious market? The answer is more layered than simple brand prestige, it taps into psychology, customer experience, quality, and a long-established reputation for treating both suppliers and shoppers well.
A Reputation Built on Quality
For decades, Waitrose has positioned itself at the premium end of the grocery market. Its customers expect:
Higher-welfare meat
Better traceability and sourcing
A wider range of specialty items
Consistent produce quality that tends to outlast cheaper supermarket alternatives
While you can certainly save money shopping elsewhere, many households argue that Waitrose’s quality reduces waste and improves meal satisfaction, making the price difference feel worthwhile.
An In-Store Experience People Actually Enjoy
In an age where shopping can feel rushed and transactional, Waitrose has leaned into the opposite. Shoppers often describe their stores as calm, well-organised and, crucially, pleasant. Clear aisles, lower noise levels, tidy displays, and attentive staff create an environment that encourages people to return.
This atmosphere becomes especially appealing during peak times of year, Christmas, Easter, and bank holiday weekends, when other supermarkets can feel chaotic.
Strong Brand Loyalty Among Middle-Income Households
While many assume Waitrose shoppers are exclusively high earners, the reality is more nuanced. A large portion of their customer base consists of middle-income, comfort-driven families who prioritise consistency and trust.
Research shows that people tend to stay loyal to a supermarket once it proves reliable, and Waitrose has spent years cultivating that reliability.
Even during tighter economic times, some shoppers reduce spending elsewhere before switching supermarkets, perceiving groceries as an area worth maintaining.
Ethical Sourcing Still Matters
A key part of the Waitrose appeal is its long-standing ethical commitments. Customers say they appreciate:
Fair treatment of farmers and suppliers
Strong environmental policies
Higher-welfare standards for dairy and meat
Minimising plastic where possible
For many shoppers, the knowledge that their food choices support responsible supply chains justifies the premium.
Partnerships and Perks: MyWaitrose and Beyond
The myWaitrose scheme, while not as discount-heavy as loyalty cards at other supermarkets, still drives footfall. Perks such as:
Personalised vouchers (We have something to pick up from our nearest branch of Waitrose next week)
Good-quality free publications and recipes
Discounts in Waitrose cafés
Occasional member-exclusive promotions
help keep shoppers engaged.
The “Waitrose effect” on neighbourhoods also persists, homes near a Waitrose store tend to be valued more highly, reinforcing the notion that shopping there is part of a lifestyle choice rather than simply a weekly errand.
People Are Willing to Pay More for Less Stress
In the end, one of the most consistent themes among Waitrose customers is simple: the shopping experience is less stressful than in cheaper supermarkets.
While low prices are essential for many households, others place equal value on:
Cleanliness
Staff availability
A quieter environment
Reliability of stock
Better product curation
When shoppers feel calmer and more respected in a supermarket, they’re more inclined to stay loyal, even if it costs more.
So Why Is Waitrose Still So Busy?
Because the supermarket isn’t selling groceries alone, it’s selling reassurance, quality, and a smoother shopping experience.
Its customers don’t simply compare shelf prices; they compare how they feel in the store, how long their food lasts, and how confident they are in the supermarket’s ethics.
In a market where consumers are becoming more discerning, those factors remain powerful.
There are festive drinks, and then there are festive legends.
The King’s Ginger sits firmly in the latter category, a bold, aromatic ginger liqueur originally created in 1903 specifically for King Edward VII.
Designed to fortify His Majesty against Britain’s cold wintery weather, this golden spirit has become a firm favourite for anyone seeking warmth, indulgence, and a touch of royal flair in their glass.
Whether you’re mixing up cocktails for a Christmas party, strolling a crisp winter market, or simply settling in for a cosy evening at home, The King’s Ginger brings a luxurious heat that feels like slipping into a velvet smoking jacket by a roaring fire.
A Royal Recipe Born from Necessity
The story of The King’s Ginger begins with a unique challenge: how do you keep the King warm during brisk automobile rides in an open-top Daimler?
The solution was a specially commissioned liqueur crafted with fiery ginger root and citrus oils, robust, invigorating, and perfectly suited to chilly Edwardian winters. And remember these were days before central heating had made inroads in even many country houses.
More than a century later, the recipe has evolved but still honours its origins: bold ginger warmth, zesty lemon brightness, and a smooth sweetness that makes it exceptionally versatile.
What Does The King’s Ginger Taste Like?
If you’ve never tried it, imagine a balance of:
Fresh, punchy ginger heat
Bright citrus notes that lift the sweetness
A warming finish that spreads slowly and luxuriously
It’s richer and more vibrant than many ginger spirits, making it ideal for both sipping and cocktail-making.
How to Enjoy The King’s Ginger
Part of this liqueur’s charm lies in its flexibility. Here are some popular ways to serve it:
1. Neat or on the Rocks
A small measure over ice delivers its full, warming depth, perfect for late-night winter relaxation.
2. The King’s Ginger Hot Toddy
A festive favourite:
50ml The King’s Ginger
Hot water
Lemon slice
A touch of honey (optional)
It’s aromatic, soothing, and ideal for cold evenings.
3. Christmas Fizz
Add a splash to prosecco or English sparkling wine for a luxurious seasonal twist.
4. The Modern Mule
Mix with ginger beer and lime for a refreshing yet fiery cocktail that works equally well in winter and summer.
5. Baking with Ginger Punch
Home bakers love to add a dash to festive bakes, gingerbread, fruitcake, mince pie filling, or even a drizzle over Christmas pudding.
A Fabulous Bottle for Gifting
The bottle itself is handsome and distinctive, instantly recognisable on the shelf. Its stylish, regal design makes it a brilliant Christmas gift, from the cocktail lover to the relative who “has everything”. It also pairs beautifully with hampers, winter picnic kits, and gourmet food selections.
Why The King’s Ginger Belongs in Your Festive Season
It’s not just a drink, it’s an atmosphere. A sense of heritage, comfort, and spirited indulgence. With its deep winter warmth and lively citrus top notes, The King’s Ginger manages to feel both traditional and contemporary.
Whether you serve it at a Christmas gathering or sip it quietly as snow begins to fall, it brings an unmistakable glow to the season.
And you can buy The King's Ginger from the That's Christmas 365 shop at this link https://amzn.to/4owHeOV
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| There's only 20 of the 24 here. That's all we could fit on! |
But in recent years, Advent traditions have expanded into something far more imaginative, and one of the most enchanting options now comes from Ravensburger, the much-loved German puzzle maker known for its craftsmanship and family-friendly designs.
Ravensburger Advent Calendar Puzzles blend the slow, comforting joy of jigsaws with the excitement of a festive countdown. Instead of sweets, each day reveals a handful of pieces that gradually build into a complete Christmas scene by the 24th. It’s gentle, screen-free entertainment during a month that can easily feel rushed.
What Makes These Advent Puzzle Calendars So Special?
1. Beautiful, high-quality artwork
Ravensburger is famous for its crisp printing, satisfying textures, and sturdy pieces. Each Advent edition features whimsical winter illustrations, think snowy villages, cosy cottages, and cheerful holiday characters straight out of a Christmas storybook.
2. A daily ritual the whole family can enjoy
Opening a door to discover puzzle pieces sounds wonderfully simple, and that’s the beauty of it. You can build it alone with a cup of tea, or make it part of your household’s evening wind-down. By Christmas Eve, you’ve not only created a gorgeous picture but also built 24 days of memories.
3. A brilliant alternative to chocolate calendars
Whether you're reducing sugar, shopping for adults who “don’t need anything”, or wanting something longer lasting, these puzzle calendars tick the box. They offer the same element of surprise but without perishable treats or plastic tat.
4. Perfect for crafters, puzzlers and mindful moments
A few pieces a day encourages mindfulness, a rare pause in a busy season. Ravensburger’s Advent calendars appeal just as much to adults seeking calm as they do to children.
5. Reusable (with a little organisation!)
If you carefully keep the doors and pieces sorted, you can re-create the countdown next year or pass it on to a puzzle-loving friend.
Popular Ravensburger Advent Calendar Puzzle Themes
Although designs vary each year, recurring favourites include:
Santa’s Workshop – cheerful elves, toys, and sparkling detail.
Winter Wonderland – snowy landscapes, animals, and frosty magic.
Festive Village Scenes – warm windows, market stalls, and twinkling lights.
Children’s Christmas Stories – gentle, nostalgic illustrations perfect for young families.
For serious puzzlers, Ravensburger also releases mini puzzle Advent calendars, where each day includes a complete tiny puzzle — a lovely collectible series.
Why These Calendars Make Brilliant Gifts
If you’re looking for something thoughtful that lasts the whole season, Ravensburger Advent Calendar Puzzles are a winner. They suit:
grandparents
teachers
puzzle enthusiasts
families with young children
anyone who prefers experiences over consumables
They’re also fantastic for Secret Santa exchanges because they feel premium without being overly expensive.
Tips for Enjoying Your Puzzle Countdown
Use a small tray or board to keep pieces safe and tidy.
Make the daily build part of your evening routine — a soothing moment with a mince pie or hot chocolate.
Frame the finished picture if you fall in love with it; they make surprisingly lovely seasonal decorations.
Keep the pieces sorted by day if you intend to reuse it next year.
A Christmas Tradition Worth Starting
In a season that can easily become hectic, Ravensburger Advent Calendar Puzzles offer something rare: a calm, creative pause. They transform each December day into a moment of discovery, and by Christmas Eve you’re rewarded with a picture full of warmth, detail, and festive delight.
If you’re ready to swap chocolate for creativity this year, a Ravensburger Advent calendar puzzle might just become your new favourite tradition.
And you can purchase the Ravensburger range at the That's Christmas 365 shop https://amzn.to/4pN0DMx
However, this led me to think about all our readers who have hearing aids and what we will need to do to ensure our hearing aids don't let us down over Christmas or the New Year.
The run-up to Christmas is a joyful, bustling time filled with music, conversation, family gatherings, carol services and festive nights out. If you use hearing aids, the last thing you need is for them to fail just when the festive season reaches its peak. A little preparation now can help you enjoy every conversation, every carol and every Christmas film without interruption.
Here’s how to keep your hearing aids in excellent working order as we head towards the busiest social season of the year.
Keep on Top of Cleaning
Winter weather, central heating, scarves and hats can all trap moisture and dust around your hearing aids. A quick daily clean can make all the difference.
Wipe the casing with a soft, dry cloth.
Use a small cleaning brush to remove wax from the microphone ports and receivers.
Check your domes or moulds for blockages.
Never use water, alcohol wipes or household cleaners, as these can damage components.
A weekly deeper clean, following your manufacturer’s guidance, helps reduce the risk of Christmas-morning surprises.
Check Your Batteries or Charging Case
Few things are more frustrating than a silent hearing aid during a party. Make sure you’re fully stocked ahead of time.
For traditional batteries:
Buy an extra pack now, before the seasonal rush. Or if you have an NHS hearing aid, order your batteries from your NHS audiologist or Doctor's surgery, well before Christmas.
Store them in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat sources.
For rechargeable aids:
Check your charging case is working properly.
Give the case a thorough wipe to remove any dust from the charging contacts.
Bring your charger if you’re staying with friends or family over the holidays.
Protect Against Moisture
Cold-to-warm temperature changes (walking in from frosty air into a heated living room) can cause condensation, which affects performance.
Consider using a hearing aid dehumidifier or drying pot overnight.
If you’re caught in rain or sleet, dry the exterior with a soft cloth as soon as you get indoors.
Avoid wearing them while using hairspray or scented products, do these before putting your aids in.
Check for Fit and Comfort
Scarves, hats, woolly jumpers and giant Christmas jumpers can all tug at behind-the-ear devices.
Make sure your tubing isn’t cracked or stiff.
Ensure domes or moulds still fit snugly and comfortably.
If you’ve noticed any whistling, feedback or changes to fit, now’s the perfect time to book a quick check with your audiologist before Christmas.
Update Any Bluetooth or App Settings
With so many festive events on the horizon, you might want to tweak your sound settings.
Update your hearing aid’s smartphone app if applicable.
Check connection settings for watching Christmas films on TV or tablets.
Save custom programmes for noisy environments such as pubs, parties or Christmas markets.
A few minutes of prep can help you glide through the season with minimal fiddling.
Prepare a Travel Kit
If you’re visiting family or going away for Christmas, pack a small kit so you’re never caught out.
Include:
Spare batteries or the charging cable
Cleaning brush and wipes
Drying pot or dehumidifier tub (travel-sized ones exist)
Spare domes or wax guards
Pop it all in a small pouch inside your overnight bag and you’re sorted.
Book a Pre-Christmas Check-Up (If Needed)
If you’ve noticed reduced clarity, muffled sound, crackling or poor battery performance, it may be worth booking a quick maintenance appointment. Audiology departments and hearing aid providers often get busy in December, so earlier is better.
Enjoy a Clear, Confident Christmas
Well-maintained hearing aids ensure you don’t miss a single festive moment, whether that's the punchline of a cracker joke, the children singing at the school nativity, or a toast around the dinner table.
A little care now means a smoother, more enjoyable Christmas season where you can focus on what matters: connection, conversation and celebration.
With glowing torches, costumed legionaries, street performances and nods to Roman merrymaking, the city is leaning into its history as the Roman fortress of Deva Victrix.
It makes for a dramatic, atmospheric spectacle... but it has also sparked questions.
Is this a festive masterstroke, or a confusing diversion from Christmas? And what do faith leaders make of it?
A City with Roman Roots
Chester’s Roman heritage is everywhere, the walls, the amphitheatre, the miniature fort remains beneath the modern streets. Local tourism promoters have seized on this, presenting Saturnalia as a way to offer something unique during the winter season.
Events include:
Roman parades through the city centre
Storytelling and reenactments about ancient winter customs
Temporary displays explaining the roots of Saturnalia
Family-friendly craft sessions and history workshops
It certainly adds colour and attracts visitors, particularly those interested in heritage tourism.
What Exactly Is Saturnalia?
Saturnalia was an ancient Roman festival honouring Saturn, the god of agriculture and renewal. Held in mid-December, it was a time of role-reversal, gift-giving, feasting, loosening of social norms and widespread revelry.
Some historians consider it a forerunner to certain Christmas customs, feasting, greenery, candles and gift-giving among them.
Chester’s tourism board emphasises the educational side: understanding how winter festivals evolved and how early Christian traditions emerged within the wider Roman world.
Is Celebrating Saturnalia a Good Thing?
It depends whom you ask.
Pros:
Boosts local tourism and footfall during the crucial Christmas shopping season.
Creates a distinctive winter event that sets Chester apart from other cities.
Encourages learning, especially for children, about Roman Britain.
Adds vibrancy to the streets during the darker winter weeks.
Potential downsides:
Some worry it may confuse or overshadow traditional Christmas celebrations.
Others feel it may be an attempt to appear “edgy” for the sake of marketing rather than meaning.
A minority view it as commercialising ancient spirituality in a way that doesn’t respect either historic Saturnalia or Christian tradition.
Overall, for most residents and visitors it appears to be taken in good humour — another colourful way to enjoy the season.
What Do Christian Leaders Think?
Reactions from Christian clergy in and around Chester have been varied but mostly measured.
Supportive or Neutral View
Several church leaders have expressed that learning about ancient history is not inherently problematic. They point out:
Christmas has incorporated many older traditions over the centuries.
Understanding Saturnalia can strengthen appreciation for how Christian celebrations evolved.
The festival does not replace church services nor Christian celebrations taking place throughout December.
Some clergy have even said that anything which brings people together peacefully at this time of year is welcome, provided Christmas itself is not diminished.
Critical or Cautious View
A few ministers, particularly within more conservative denominations, have raised concerns:
That reviving a pagan festival at Christmas might blur religious lines, especially for young people.
That the commercialisation of something historically religious could trivialise both ancient beliefs and modern faith.
That the city should ensure the celebration does not come across as a replacement for Christmas or frame Christianity as a mere historical afterthought.
However, even among critics, the tone has been more questioning than confrontational. Chester’s churches remain fully engaged with Advent and Christmas outreach, and many plan events specifically highlighting the Christian message of the season.
Can Saturnalia and Christmas Coexist?
In practice, they already do, and peacefully. Chester’s Saturnalia celebration is not a religious revival but a cultural and historic re-enactment. V
isitors can enjoy Roman parades in the afternoon and attend a carol service at the cathedral in the evening.
For most residents, the two festivals serve different purposes:
Saturnalia adds colour, theatre and historical flair.
Christmas provides spiritual grounding, community, tradition and celebration.
Chester has simply chosen to embrace both, one as heritage, the other as living faith.
Whether you see it as harmless fun or slightly peculiar, Chester’s Saturnalia festivities undeniably bring people into the city at a time when local businesses need it most. The key is balance: celebrating history without undermining the meaning of Christmas for those who observe it.
So is Saturnalia in Chester a good thing?
As long as it complements rather than competes with Christmas, many in the city seem to think so. And for visitors, it’s yet another reason to enjoy one of Britain’s most beautiful historic cities during the festive season.
We at That's Christmas 365 love Wallace & Gromit and this Christmas special is absolutely wonderful, including the Dad jokes!
It's also nice to see a special old favourite friend making an appearance. And we'll not mention who it is so as not to spoil the surprise!
Although more commonly celebrated on the Continent than in the UK, it’s a wonderful feast day to embrace at home, especially if you’re looking to add a little extra magic, kindness and old-world charm to the run-up to Christmas.
Whether you have children, grandchildren, or simply enjoy marking the season with meaningful rituals, Saint Nicholas Day offers a gentle reminder of generosity, compassion and festive warmth. Here’s how you can bring the celebration to life in your own household.
Who Was Saint Nicholas?
Saint Nicholas of Myra was a fourth-century bishop known for his extraordinary generosity, humility and willingness to help those in need. Countless legends surround him, from saving families from poverty to secretly delivering gifts to the poor.
Over time, these stories shaped the modern figure of Father Christmas and Santa Claus.
Celebrating his feast day is a lovely way to weave historical tradition into your festive season, giving children and adults alike a deeper understanding of where many of our Christmas customs come from.
A Charming Tradition: Shoes at the Door
One of the most recognisable Saint Nicholas traditions is placing shoes or boots by the fireplace or front door on the eve of 5 December. Children (and often adults!) wake to find small treats tucked inside:
Clementines
Chocolate coins
Gingerbread biscuits
A little toy or trinket
A handwritten note of encouragement or praise
It’s a gentle, exciting moment that doesn’t rival Christmas Day itself, perfect for building seasonal anticipation.
Celebrate with Simple, Heart-Warming Activities
1. Bake Speculaas or Spiced Biscuits
These traditional spiced biscuits are associated with Saint Nicholas across Europe. Baking them fills the home with the scent of cloves, cinnamon and nutmeg – the unmistakable smell of Advent.
2. Read Stories of Saint Nicholas
Sharing tales of his kindness is a brilliant way to introduce children to the roots of Christmas giving. Books and online resources abound, and you can tailor stories to different age groups.
3. Enjoy a Small Gift Exchange
A modest gift exchange on 6 December, based on thoughtfulness rather than expense, helps keep the focus on kindness.
4. Light a Candle for Kindness
Lighting a candle on Saint Nicholas Day is an invitation to practise generosity throughout December. Challenge family members to carry out “one small act of kindness” each day until Christmas.
5. Support a Charity in His Honour
Given Saint Nicholas’s commitment to helping those in need, this is an ideal moment to:
Donate food or toys to a local appeal
Support a homelessness charity
Offer time or assistance to neighbours
It’s a powerful way to celebrate the true meaning of the season.
Make It a New Family Tradition
You don’t need to be part of a religious household to enjoy the customs of Saint Nicholas Day. It’s a celebration rooted in kindness, storytelling and simple joy. Many UK families are rediscovering this feast day as a lovely way to pace the season, adding a meaningful moment in early December before the Christmas rush fully sets in.
It’s also a wonderful tradition to share on social media or incorporate into children’s Advent calendars, helping the younger generation appreciate the origins of festive giving.
The Feast of Saint Nicholas is a charming, timeless tradition that brings warmth and generosity into the heart of the Christmas season.
By adopting even one of these customs, you’ll add a beautiful and meaningful pause to the festive calendar.
If you’re looking for a way to slow down, savour the season and remind everyone at home what Christmas is really about, Saint Nicholas Day is a perfect place to begin.