Man Utd players kick off Christmas with festive visit to Francis House Children's Hospice

Manchester United goalkeepers Tom Heaton and Senne Lammens spread some Christmas joy on a visit to Francis House Children’s Hospice.

The Manchester United first-team players visited seriously ill young people and their families at the hospice in Didsbury, handing out an array of United-themed presents, including scarves, hats and calendars.

Heaton and Lammens met with a group of children, their parents and siblings in the home from home surroundings of the family lounge at Francis House and heard how the hospice supports them with respite care and a range of palliative care services.

Bertille Chuipa, mum of Anderson who receives regular respite at Francis House  said: “For the players to find the time to come and see people like Anderson I think that is really important. Having met them today, it’s a nice kick off for the Christmas period.”

Senne enjoyed spending time with fans at Francis House. He said: "We are grateful for what we do and the life we have and it’s really nice to see all the happy faces. It’s nice to give back to them as well because we also have a lot of support from them. It’s been an honour to be here."

The players then moved onto Francis Lodge, the teenage and young adult wing at the hospice, where they were greeted by more than a dozen young people and hospice staff.

Josh, who receives respite care at Francis House, said: “It was a privilege to meet Senne and Tom. I’ve watched Manchester United from being a little boy so it means a lot. It feels like an early Christmas present at this time of year. They gave us a bag with some gifts in and I’m looking forward to opening it!”

After the visit Tom Heaton said: "These visits are a great reminder of how much football can impact people’s lives, and as a player, the responsibility to be a role model and to have an affect on people in a positive way. Francis House does an incredible job supporting these families, so for us, we just came to meet some of the families and try to bring some festive cheer. There's been an incredible atmosphere here and it's been an honour to be a part of."

The visit organised annually by the Manchester United Foundation is enjoyed by Francis House families in addition to children receiving treatment at nearby Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital and The Christie Palatine Treatment Centre.

Sharon Doodson, director of care at Francis House, thanked the Club for the visit. She said: “It’s always such a joy when United come to visit. Seeing our children, young people and families light up with smiles and laughter, sharing their love of football with people they admire, is truly magical. Moments like these fill the hospice with warmth and leave memories that stay with them long after the day has ended.”

Francis House supports over 435 families from across Greater Manchester. The hospice services are all given completely free of charge and include respite care, homecare, sibling support, end of life care, emotional and bereavement support.

The hospice needs to raise £15,900 a day in donations to continue to provide long-term support to the children, young people and their families.

For more information on Francis House or to give a donation visit www.francishouse.org.uk

Why Advantage and Loyalty Cards Are Brilliant at Christmas

Christmas has a habit of creeping up on both our diaries and our bank balances. Between gifts, food, decorations, travel, and those all-important festive treats, the costs add up quickly.

That’s where Advantage cards and loyalty cards quietly come into their own, and why they deserve a place in every Christmas planner.

One of the most familiar examples in the UK is the Boots Advantage Card, but the festive benefits apply to loyalty schemes right across the high street.

Turning Everyday Shopping into Christmas Savings

The real magic of an Advantage card is that it rewards spending you’re already doing.

Toiletries, skincare, vitamins, cold remedies, baby essentials, these are year-round necessities. 

By using an Advantage card throughout the year, you’re effectively building a Christmas fund without even noticing.

Come December, those points can:

Knock money off gifts

Cover stocking fillers

Pay for festive self-care treats

It’s one of the easiest ways to soften the financial impact of Christmas.

Christmas Is Peak Points Season

Retailers know Christmas is busy, and Advantage card holders are often rewarded accordingly. In the run-up to Christmas, it’s common to see:

Extra points on gift ranges

Bonus points when you spend over a certain amount

Seasonal points boosters

Targeted festive offers

This is when points really snowball, especially if you’re buying gifts anyway.

Ideal for Stocking Fillers and Small Gifts

Advantage cards are particularly powerful when it comes to:

Beauty gifts

Mini gift sets

Toiletries for hampers

Teacher, neighbour, and colleague presents

By redeeming points, you can pick up thoughtful gifts without dipping further into the Christmas budget — and without it feeling like you’re cutting corners.

A Quiet Way to Budget Without Feeling Mean

Not everyone enjoys strict Christmas budgeting. Advantage points offer a gentler alternative.

Because the money is already “spent” earlier in the year, using points in December doesn’t feel like sacrificing anything. It feels like a bonus — or even a little Christmas gift to yourself.

That psychological lift matters, especially during an already expensive and emotionally charged season.

Perfect for Last-Minute Christmas Emergencies

We’ve all been there:

A forgotten gift

An unexpected visitor

A stocking that suddenly looks empty

Having Advantage points ready to go can save the day. Whether it’s a quick beauty gift, festive treats, or practical essentials, points give you flexibility when Christmas throws a curveball.

Digital Cards Make Festive Shopping Easier

With most Advantage cards now stored in apps, there’s no rummaging through wallets at busy tills. Your offers, points balance, and festive promotions are all there on your phone — ideal when shops are crowded and queues are long.

It’s one less thing to think about during an already hectic time of year.

A Small Christmas Habit with Big Rewards

Using an Advantage card is one of those quiet Christmas wins:

No cost to join

No obligation to spend more

No downside

It simply rewards loyalty and planning — two things that make Christmas calmer, kinder, and a little more affordable.

If you’re shopping regularly and not collecting points towards Christmas, you’re making the festive season harder than it needs to be.

And at That’s Christmas 365, we’re always in favour of Christmas magic that doesn’t break the bank. And if you are over 65, there are even more perks and more points! 

If Your Christmas Food Delivery Doesn't Arrive... Don't Panic!

Sometimes things go awry, despite the best planning 

We’ve all seen it – or heard it. Christmas Eve, packed shop, frazzled nerves… and suddenly someone realises their carefully planned Christmas food delivery hasn’t arrived. Panic sets in. Voices rise. Festive goodwill wobbles.

If that happens to you, here’s what to do next – calmly, practically, and without letting Christmas be ruined.

First things first: pause and breathe

It’s easy to feel that Christmas has been “cancelled”, but it hasn’t. Food delivery problems are stressful, yes – but they are fixable. Take a moment, breathe, and switch from panic mode to problem-solving mode.

Check the basics (before assuming the worst)

Before heading into meltdown territory, quickly check:

Delivery confirmation emails or texts – wrong date, missed slot, or a reschedule?

Neighbours – many deliveries are left with someone nearby.

Safe places – sheds, porches, garages and bins (yes, really).

You’d be surprised how often the food has arrived… just not where expected.

Contact the retailer – calmly but firmly

Customer services will be overwhelmed on Christmas Eve, but it’s still worth contacting them.

Ask specifically:

Has the order been marked as delivered?

Is there a partial delivery?

Can a refund or emergency credit be issued immediately?

Even if nothing else, you’ll usually get your money back – and that gives you options.

Switch plans: Christmas is flexible

This is the most important mindset shift. Christmas dinner does not have to look like the advert.

If the big shop hasn’t arrived:

Buy what’s available, not what was planned

Scale down – fewer courses, simpler dishes

Swap the “centre-piece roast” for something quicker

A roast chicken, gammon joint, sausages, salmon, cheese boards or party food can all save the day.

Use what’s already in your kitchen

Before heading back out into the crowds, check what you already have:

Freezer staples

Tins and jars

Pasta, rice, potatoes

Frozen veg

Cheese, crackers, chutneys

A “make-do” Christmas made with what you have often becomes the one people remember most fondly.

Shop smarter, not harder

If you do need to shop:

Try smaller local shops, petrol stations, or corner stores

Avoid chasing “perfect” – aim for “good enough”

Look for ready-to-eat or minimal-prep options

Christmas Eve is not the day for culinary ambition.

Let go of the guilt

This is crucial.

A missed delivery is not your fault.

Your Christmas is not ruined.

Your value as a host, partner, or parent is not measured by roast potatoes.

What people remember is warmth, kindness, laughter – not whether the pigs in blankets were artisanal.

Turn it into a story, not a disaster

Years from now, no one will recall the delivery slot number – but they will remember:

“That year everything went wrong…”

“…and we ended up eating whatever we could find”

“…and it was actually brilliant.”

Those are the stories that last.

One final thought

If Christmas food doesn’t arrive, Christmas itself hasn’t gone anywhere.

Lower the bar. Keep the people. Put the kettle on.

Everything else is just trimmings.

Why Sprouts Are the Underrated Heroes of the Christmas Feast

And how to choose and cook them to true brassica perfection!

Few Christmas foods divide opinion quite like the humble sprout. Mention them at the dinner table and you’ll often hear groans, jokes, or exaggerated childhood trauma stories. 

Yet sprouts are not the villain of the Christmas feast — they are, in fact, its most underrated heroes.

Cooked properly, sprouts bring freshness, balance, texture, and a welcome bitterness that cuts through rich roast meats, stuffing, gravy, and all the trimmings. When mistreated, they become sulphurous, soggy, and unfairly blamed. The problem has never been the sprout. The problem has always been how we treat it.

At That’s Christmas 365, we believe it’s time to give sprouts the respect they deserve.

Why Sprouts Belong on the Christmas Table

Sprouts are part of the brassica family, alongside cabbage, broccoli, and kale, vegetables that thrive in cold weather and are at their very best in winter. Christmas is their season.

They earn their place on the plate because they:

Balance rich and fatty foods

Add colour and texture to the meal

Work beautifully with festive flavours like bacon, chestnuts, garlic, butter, and nutmeg

Are packed with fibre and nutrients (a quiet win during a heavy meal)

A Christmas dinner without sprouts is like a tree without lights — technically fine, but missing something traditional and grounding.

How to Choose the Best Sprouts

Perfect sprouts start at the shop, market, or greengrocer.

What to Look For

Firm and tight: The leaves should be compact, not loose or floppy

Bright green: Avoid yellowing or brown edges

Small to medium size: These are sweeter and cook more evenly

Heavy for their size: A sign of freshness

If you can find sprouts still on the stalk, grab them. They stay fresher for longer and look wonderfully festive in the kitchen.

What to Avoid

Strong cabbage smells (a warning sign)

Soft or spongy sprouts

Black spots or excessive leaf damage

Preparing Sprouts Properly (This Matters)

Before cooking, take a few simple steps that make all the difference:

Trim the very base of the stalk

Remove any damaged outer leaves

Rinse briefly in cold water

For larger sprouts, cut a shallow cross in the base or halve them for even cooking

This helps heat penetrate quickly and evenly — which is key to avoiding bitterness.

How to Cook Sprouts to Brassica Perfection

1. Boiling (Yes, But Briefly)

Boiling isn’t the enemy — overboiling is.

Use well-salted water

Cook for 4–6 minutes max

Drain immediately

Steam-dry for a moment before serving or finishing in butter

They should be tender with a slight bite, not army-green and collapsing.

2. Steaming (Clean and Reliable)

Steaming keeps flavour and colour intact.

Steam for 6–8 minutes

Finish with butter, seasoning, and perhaps a pinch of nutmeg or black pepper

Perfect if you want sprouts to taste like sprouts — but at their best.

3. Roasting (The Crowd-Pleaser)

If you’re converting sceptics, this is the method.

Halve sprouts

Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper

Roast at 200°C (fan) for 25–30 minutes

Add bacon lardons, garlic, or chestnuts halfway through

Roasting brings sweetness, crisp edges, and deep flavour.

4. Pan-Frying or Sautéing (Luxurious and Festive)

Ideal for Boxing Day or smaller Christmas dinners.

Parboil sprouts briefly first

Fry in butter with shallots, pancetta, or nuts

Finish with lemon zest or a splash of stock

This method gives sprouts a rich, glossy finish that feels properly celebratory.

Classic Christmas Pairings That Always Work

Sprouts with bacon and chestnuts

Sprouts with butter and nutmeg

Sprouts with garlic and Parmesan

Sprouts with honey and mustard glaze

These combinations don’t hide the sprout — they elevate it.

The Final Word: Respect the Sprout

Sprouts don’t deserve their bad reputation. They deserve timing, care, and a little love. When treated properly, they’re not just an acceptable side dish they’re essential to the balance and tradition of the Christmas feast.

So this Christmas, don’t apologise for serving sprouts. Cook them well, serve them proudly, and let them shine as the underrated heroes they truly are.

Because Christmas dinner wouldn’t be Christmas without them.

Watch Seymour Hicks’ A Christmas Carol (1935): A Theatrical Scrooge for a New Era

Explore Seymour Hicks’ 1935 A Christmas Carol, a theatrical and historically rich film adaptation that captures a lifetime of Scrooge performances and early British sound cinema.

At That’s Christmas 365, we love revisiting the many screen versions of A Christmas Carol, especially those that sit slightly outside the usual festive spotlight. 

One such adaptation is the 1935 British film starring Seymour Hicks, a version that beautifully bridges the gap between Victorian stage tradition and modern cinema.

While later adaptations — particularly those from the 1950s onwards — are more widely known today, Seymour Hicks’ 1935 A Christmas Carol deserves recognition as the culmination of a lifetime spent portraying Ebenezer Scrooge.

Seymour Hicks: A Scrooge for the Ages

By 1935, Seymour Hicks was already legendary. Actor, playwright, producer, and theatre manager, Hicks had been performing A Christmas Carol on stage since the late 19th century, playing Scrooge hundreds — possibly thousands — of times.

This was not a role he stepped into for a single film; it was one he had lived with for decades. By the time cameras rolled on the 1935 adaptation, Hicks’ Scrooge was fully formed, deeply considered, and instinctive.

The 1935 Film: Sound, Cinema, and Stage Combined

Unlike his earlier silent-film version, the 1935 A Christmas Carol fully embraces the possibilities of sound cinema, allowing Hicks to combine his expressive physical performance with vocal delivery.

This Scrooge is:

Sharp-tongued and intimidating in the opening scenes

Commanding and theatrical, rooted firmly in stage tradition

Gradually softened through fear, reflection, and moral reckoning

Hicks’ performance is unmistakably theatrical, but that is very much part of its charm. Rather than aiming for realism, the film leans into Dickensian storytelling, heightened, moral, and emotionally clear.

A Film Steeped in Tradition

What makes the 1935 version especially interesting is how faithful it feels to Victorian and Edwardian interpretations of Dickens. This is not yet the restrained, psychologically complex Scrooge popularised later; instead, it reflects how audiences had understood the character for generations.

The ghosts are overtly symbolic, the moral lessons clearly stated, and Christmas itself is presented as a transformative force, not merely a seasonal backdrop.

For viewers interested in Christmas history, this makes the film an invaluable cultural artefact.

Overshadowed, But Not Forgotten

The 1935 A Christmas Carol is often overshadowed by the hugely influential A Christmas Carol, released just over a decade later. That later version redefined Scrooge for post-war audiences and remains a festive staple.

However, Seymour Hicks’ film represents the end of an era, the last great screen Scrooge rooted in Victorian stage performance and 19th-century moral storytelling.

Without it, the evolution of A Christmas Carol on screen would be incomplete.

Why It Still Matters at Christmas

At That’s Christmas 365, we believe Christmas is as much about remembering as it is about celebrating. The 1935 Seymour Hicks version reminds us that:

A Christmas Carol has always evolved with its audience

Christmas storytelling reflects its time and culture

Every familiar tradition once had a beginning

Watching this version today offers a rare chance to see how earlier generations experienced Dickens’ most famous Christmas tale.

That’s Christmas 365 Final Thoughts

Seymour Hicks’ 1935 A Christmas Carol is not just another adaptation, it is the final screen statement of a man who dedicated much of his life to bringing Scrooge to the public.

It may not be the most famous, nor the most frequently broadcast, but it holds a special place in Christmas film history. For those willing to step back into an earlier style of storytelling, it remains a richly rewarding and deeply festive watch.

Sometimes, the heart of Christmas is best found in the versions that time almost forgot.

Reset Your Pantry in With New Launches from Seggiano

If you thought gluten free meant dull and boring, or you were bewildered about what Veganuary might hold for you besides some weird looking vegetable things in the super market; you should rethink your entire approach because the chefs at Seggiano have been working hard to bring some new and very exciting products to their already impressive range. 

NEW! Corn & Rice Spaghetti: New to the Seggiano Gluten Free Pasta Range 

Crafted in the artisan tradition, this organic gluten free spaghetti is made from a carefully balanced blend of corn and rice flour. Bronze drawn and slow dried at low temperatures, the process preserves flavour and delivers a satisfying bite that challenges expectations of gluten free pasta. 

The subtle sweetness of rice complements the robust structure of corn, creating a well-balanced texture that holds sauces beautifully. Certified gluten free and plant-based, it is a versatile cupboard staple that works just as well with a classic tomato and basil sauce as it does with a simple drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil. 

A reminder that gluten free pasta does not have to compromise on flavour, texture or pleasure. 

Size: 250g 

Price: £5.10 

NEW! Corn & Rice Spaghetti: Corn & Rice Tagliatelle  

This organic gluten free tagliatelle is crafted from a simple blend of corn and rice flour, made using traditional pasta-making methods. Bronze drawn and slow dried at the better, low temperatures, the process delivers a firm, well-defined ribbon with a clean, balanced flavour. 

The gentle sweetness of rice softens the robust structure of corn, creating a satisfying texture that holds richer sauces with ease. Certified gluten free and plant-based, this tagliatelle is ideal for everything from a silky olive oil finish to slow-cooked ragùs. 

Proof that gluten free pasta can be every bit as indulgent, structured and versatile as the classic. 

Size: 250g 

Price: £5.10 

NEW! Chickpea & Rice Tagliatelle: New to the Seggiano Gluten Free Pasta Range 

This organic gluten free ribbon pasta is crafted from a blend of chickpea and rice flour, offering a naturally warm, gently nutty flavour profile. Made using traditional methods, it is bronze drawn and again is slow dried at low temperatures to preserve both texture and taste. 

Chickpeas bring depth, plant-based protein and fibre, while rice adds balance and subtle sweetness. The result is a firm, satisfying pasta that holds its shape and pairs effortlessly with everything from light olive oil dressings to richer, layered sauces. 

A distinctive, artisan alternative that proves gluten free pasta can be flavour-led, nourishing and deeply satisfying. 

Size: 250g 

Price: £5.10 

NEW! Amaranth, Teff & Quinoa Conchiglie: New to the Seggiano Gluten Free Pasta Range 

This organic gluten free shell pasta is crafted from a considered blend of ancient grains, amaranth, teff and quinoa, bringing depth and character to a classic shape. Made using traditional methods, it is bronze drawn and slow dried at low temperatures to protect flavour and achieve a satisfying bite. 

The naturally earthy, gently nutty qualities of these grains create a pasta with real complexity. The shell shape is designed to cradle sauces, making it equally suited to simple olive oil dressings or more generous, layered recipes. 

A flavour-led gluten free pasta that celebrates ancient grains, craftsmanship and versatility. 

Size: 250g 

Price: £5.10 

NEW! Corn & Rice Maccheroni: New to the Seggiano Gluten Free Pasta Range 

This organic gluten free maccheroni is crafted from a balanced blend of corn and rice flour, made using time-honoured artisan techniques. Bronze drawn and slow dried at low temperatures, the process protects flavour while delivering a firm, reliable bite. 

The subtle sweetness of rice works in harmony with the robust structure of corn, resulting in a pasta that holds its shape and performs exceptionally well with sauce. Its traditional tubular form is designed for heartier, fuller-bodied recipes. 

A dependable gluten free staple that brings structure, flavour and versatility to everyday cooking. 

Size: 375g 

Price: £5.10 

NEW! Pistachio Pesto 

This pistachio pesto is bold, indulgent and unapologetically rich, made with over 50% pistachios for a luxuriously creamy texture. Blended with extra virgin olive oil, chilli and salt, it delivers buttery sweetness up front, followed by a gentle, warming heat. 

It is the kind of condiment that instantly transforms a dish. Toss it through hot pasta and it melts into the strands, spoon it over roasted vegetables for depth, or spread it thickly onto crostini for an effortless yet impressive bite. A small amount goes a long way. 

Naturally gluten free and vegan, this is a pesto designed to bring flavour, confidence and a little drama to everyday cooking. 

Size: 190g 

Price: £9.75 

NEW! Tomato & Almond Trapanese Pesto 

This vibrant Sicilian pesto captures the sun-soaked flavours of western Sicily, inspired by the coastal town of Trapani where ripe tomatoes and almonds are celebrated ingredients. Fresh, savoury and gently warming, it offers a regional twist on the classic green pesto. 

Made with sun-ripened tomato pulp and paste, Sicilian almonds, basil, garlic and oregano, the flavour is bright and rounded, with a subtle hint of chilli adding depth. Crafted by the same artisan producer behind our Wild Fennel & Tomato Pesto, it delivers freshness and character in every spoonful. 

Stir it through pasta for an instant taste of southern Italy, spoon it over grilled vegetables, or use it to lift simple dishes with colour and confidence. Made without fillers or preservatives, just real ingredients and unmistakable Sicilian flair. 

Size: 190g 

Price: £5.85 

Images:  Pestos & Sauces new for 2026 

NEW! Artichoke & Garlic Sauce 

This velvety artichoke and garlic blend is crafted in the hills of Piemonte by a small-scale producer working the traditional way. Made using freshly harvested artichokes rather than preserved ones, it delivers a clean, rounded flavour and a naturally creamy texture. 

Blended simply with olive oil, garlic and a touch of sea salt, the result is elegant yet comforting, with the gentle sweetness of artichoke balanced by savoury depth. It is equally at home stirred through warm pasta, spooned onto bruschetta or served cold as part of an antipasti spread. 

Naturally vegan and gluten free, with no fillers, preservatives or artificial flavourings, this is a quietly luxurious pantry staple that celebrates regional craft and honest ingredients. 

Size: 190g 

Price: £6.15 

https://seggiano.com

 

Let That's Christmas 365 Take You Through The Final Christmas Countdown

As Christmas 2025 hurtles towards us, the pressure can feel very real. 

Lists get longer, time feels shorter, and suddenly everything seems essential. But here’s the truth: not everything actually is.

If you’re in the final countdown, this is your moment to focus on what truly matters, deal with what’s still outstanding, and let go of the rest without guilt.

What You Still Need to Do (The Real Essentials)

These are the things that genuinely make Christmas work rather than just look perfect.

1. Food Basics

You don’t need a gourmet spread, but you do need:

A main meal plan (even if it’s simple)

Key ingredients bought or ordered

A rough idea of timings on the day

Shortcut wins:

Frozen veg is absolutely fine

Shop-bought desserts are still Christmas desserts

A smaller menu beats an over-ambitious one every time

2. Gifts That Are Already Covered

If gifts aren’t all wrapped or lavish, that’s OK. What matters is:

Everyone has something thoughtful

Digital gift cards and IOUs are valid and practical

Experiences beat objects when time runs out

Remember: late wrapping is not a moral failure.

3. A Tidy, Not Perfect, Home

You are not hosting a photoshoot.

Clear floors and surfaces

Clean loo and sink

Enough seating and crockery

That’s it. Nobody cares if a cupboard is chaos behind a closed door.

What Can Wait (Or Be Skipped Entirely)

This is where the pressure can ease.

1. Over-the-Top Decorations

If the tree is up and the lights work, you’ve done Christmas.

You don’t need themed rooms

You don’t need matching colour schemes

You definitely don’t need to replace decorations “just because”

2. Homemade Everything

Homemade is lovely.

Store-bought is still festive.

If baking, crafting, or DIY decorating is stressing you out:

Drop it

Nobody will miss it

Your sanity matters more

3. Trying to Please Everyone

You are allowed to:

Say no to visits

Keep plans small

Change arrangements if health, energy, or money demands it

Christmas is not a performance review.

If Push Comes to Shove: What Actually Matters

When everything is stripped back, Christmas comes down to:

Being fed

Being safe

Feeling connected (even quietly or briefly)

Getting through the day without burning yourself out

Everything else is optional.

A quieter Christmas, a simpler table, fewer presents, less rushing — none of these mean you’ve failed. In many homes, they’re the reason Christmas actually feels better.

A Gentle Final Thought

You don’t need to do everything for Christmas to arrive.

It will come whether the wrapping paper matches, the gravy is homemade, or the decorations are Instagram-ready.

Do what you reasonably can.

Let the rest go.

Christmas doesn’t need perfection... it just needs people. 

Why Maple Syrup Works So Well at Christmas

Maple syrup pairs beautifully with traditional Christmas flavours such as cinnamon, nutmeg, clove, orange, cranberry, and vanilla. 

Unlike white sugar, it brings complexity rather than just sweetness, making it especially suited to darker spirits like bourbon, rum, and brandy.

It also dissolves easily in cold drinks, which makes it far more cocktail-friendly than granulated sugar during the festive rush.

Maple Old Fashioned (A Christmas Classic)

A seasonal twist on a timeless favourite.

You’ll need:

50ml bourbon or rye whisky

1 tsp pure maple syrup

2 dashes Angostura bitters

Orange peel and cinnamon stick (to garnish)

How to make it:

Stir the bourbon, maple syrup, and bitters with ice until well chilled. Strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube. Express the orange peel over the glass and drop it in. Garnish with a cinnamon stick for a festive aroma.

Why it works at Christmas:

Rich, warming, and quietly luxurious, perfect after a big festive meal.

Maple Spiced Rum Punch

Ideal for parties and easy to scale up.

You’ll need (per glass):

40ml dark spiced rum

15ml maple syrup

60ml cloudy apple juice

A squeeze of fresh lime

Grated nutmeg (to finish)

How to make it:

Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into a glass filled with fresh ice. Dust lightly with nutmeg.

Festive tip:

Serve in a heat-resistant glass and gently warm it for a winter punch version.

Cranberry Maple Gin Fizz

Bright, festive, and not too sweet.

You’ll need:

40ml gin

20ml cranberry juice

10–15ml maple syrup

Soda water

Fresh cranberries and rosemary (to garnish)

How to make it:

Shake the gin, cranberry juice, and maple syrup with ice. Strain into a tall glass and top with soda. Garnish with cranberries and a sprig of rosemary for a Christmas look.

Why it’s great for Christmas:

The sharp cranberry balances the maple perfectly, making this ideal as a pre-dinner drink.

Maple Espresso Martini (Festive After-Dinner Treat)

A cosy Christmas dessert in a glass.

You’ll need:

40ml vodka

20ml freshly brewed espresso (cooled)

15ml coffee liqueur

10ml maple syrup

How to make it:

Shake everything hard with ice until frothy. Strain into a chilled martini glass and garnish with coffee beans or a light dusting of cocoa.

Christmas pairing:

Perfect with mince pies, chocolate truffles, or a slice of Christmas cake.

Hot Maple Buttered Bourbon

For cold nights and quiet evenings.

You’ll need:

40ml bourbon

1 tsp maple syrup

Small knob of butter

Hot water

Pinch of cinnamon or mixed spice

How to make it:

Add bourbon, maple syrup, butter, and spice to a mug. Top with hot water and stir gently until melted.

Why you’ll love it:

Comforting, soothing, and wonderfully indulgent—this is Christmas in a mug.

Choosing the Right Maple Syrup

For cocktails, always use pure maple syrup, not pancake syrup. Grade A amber or dark maple syrup works best, as it has enough flavour to stand up to spirits and spices.

A small bottle goes a long way and makes a thoughtful Christmas pantry staple too.

A Final Festive Stir

Maple syrup brings warmth, richness, and a gentle sweetness that feels tailor-made for Christmas cocktails. Whether you’re hosting friends, planning a festive date night, or simply enjoying a quiet drink after a long December day, these maple-based cocktails add something a little special to the season.

Pour carefully, sip slowly, and enjoy the glow of Christmas—one maple-sweetened cocktail at a time.

That's Christmas 365 would like to thank Maple From Canada for their incredible support in creating this feature. https://www.maplefromcanada.co.uk

The Three Wise Men of the Nativity: Who Were They and Where Did They Come From?

At That’s Christmas 365, we love exploring the stories and traditions that sit just beneath the surface of Christmas. 

Few figures are as fascinating, or as widely misunderstood, as the Three Wise Men, also known as the Magi.

They appear briefly in the Nativity story, yet their journey has echoed through art, music, and Christmas tradition for nearly two thousand years. 

So who were they, where did they come from, and why do they still matter to Christmas today?

What the Bible Tells Us (and What It Doesn’t)

The Wise Men appear only in the Gospel of Matthew (Matthew 2:1–12). The text tells us that Magi from the east arrived in Jerusalem, seeking a newborn king after observing a remarkable star.

What may surprise many people is this:

The Bible never says there were three Wise Men

They are never described as kings

Their names are not mentioned

The tradition of “three” comes entirely from the fact that three gifts were presented.

Who Were the Magi?

The word Magi refers to a respected class of learned men in the ancient world. They were often associated with:

Astronomy and the study of the stars

Interpreting dreams and signs

Religious and philosophical scholarship

These were not entertainers or magicians in the modern sense, but serious thinkers, advisers whose insights were sought by rulers and courts.

Historically, Magi are most commonly linked with Persia, though some scholars suggest origins in Babylon or neighbouring regions.

Where Did They Come From?

Matthew simply says they came “from the east”, which in the ancient world could mean hundreds or even thousands of miles away.

Likely regions include:

Persia (modern-day Iran)

Babylon (modern Iraq)

Parts of the Arabian Peninsula

What is beyond doubt is that their journey would have taken weeks or months, guided by what became known as the Star of Bethlehem, until they reached Bethlehem.

This long journey speaks volumes about their determination and belief that the sign they saw truly mattered.

Why Are They Called Kings?

The idea of the Wise Men as kings developed later in Christian tradition, influenced by Old Testament passages such as Psalm 72 and Isaiah 60, which speak of kings bringing gifts and honour to God’s chosen one.

By medieval times, the Magi were firmly portrayed as crowned monarchs, reinforcing a powerful Christmas message: that Christ was recognised not only by shepherds and ordinary people, but by figures of wealth, learning, and authority from far beyond Judea.

The Meaning Behind the Gifts

The gifts of the Wise Men are among the most symbol-rich elements of the Nativity:

Gold – symbolising kingship and royalty

Frankincense – used in worship, representing divinity

Myrrh – associated with burial, hinting at suffering and sacrifice

Together, they reflect the Christian belief in who Jesus was — and what his life would mean.

Why the Wise Men Still Matter at Christmas

At That’s Christmas 365, we see the Wise Men as a reminder that Christmas is not just a cosy, local story. It is a global one.

They represent:

Faith that crosses borders

Curiosity and courage to follow the unknown

Recognition that Christmas is for everyone, everywhere

Their presence in the Nativity reminds us that Christmas reaches far beyond Bethlehem — and far beyond one day in December.

A Christmas Reflection

Whether you imagine the Wise Men as richly robed kings or thoughtful scholars beneath a winter sky, their story is one of patience, belief, and hope. They followed a sign they did not fully understand, trusting it would lead them somewhere extraordinary.

That spirit, of seeking light in the darkness, sits at the very heart of Christmas.

How to Cut Your Christmas Food Bill This Year (Without Cutting the Joy)

Christmas doesn’t have to come with a credit-card hangover. With a little planning, a few smart swaps, and a willingness to ignore the pressure to “overbuy just in case”, you can enjoy a generous, traditional Christmas while keeping your food bill firmly under control.

Here’s how to do it — calmly, practically, and without feeling deprived.

1. Plan First, Shop Second

Impulse buying is the single biggest reason Christmas food bills spiral. Before you step foot in a supermarket (or open a shopping app):

Write a realistic menu for Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and the days immediately after

Count exactly how many people you’re feeding — not how many you might feed

Decide which meals actually need to be special and which can be simple

Christmas doesn’t require luxury ingredients for every single meal. Save the splurge for where it truly matters.

2. Be Honest About How Much You Actually Eat

Most households massively overestimate Christmas consumption.

Ask yourself:

How much of last year’s cheese board went untouched?

Did anyone really want pudding after a full roast?

How much party food ended up forgotten in the fridge?

Buying slightly less is not being mean — it’s being realistic.

3. Don’t Fear Frozen (It’s Your Secret Weapon)

Frozen food has an unfair reputation at Christmas, but it’s one of the best ways to save money.

Frozen veg is often cheaper, just as nutritious, and never wasted

Frozen desserts can be portioned exactly

Bread, rolls, and pastry freeze beautifully and defrost quickly

Freezer space is worth more than gold in December — use it wisely.

4. Shop Little and Often Instead of One Big Panic Shop

A single massive Christmas shop encourages excess “just in case” purchases.

Instead:

Do one early essentials shop (tins, flour, sugar, long-life items)

Add fresh items closer to Christmas

Keep receipts and review what you’re actually using

This spreads the cost and reduces waste.

5. Supermarket Own Brands Are Your Friend

At Christmas especially, supermarket own-brand ranges often match branded products in quality — sometimes surpassing them.

Items where own brand makes little difference:

Flour, sugar, rice, pasta

Tinned tomatoes, beans, pulses

Stock cubes, sauces, condiments

Mince pies and biscuits (many are made by the same bakeries)

Reserve premium brands for the things you genuinely taste and appreciate.

6. Be Strategic With Meat

Meat is usually the most expensive part of Christmas dinner — but it doesn’t have to be.

Choose joints that stretch (turkey crowns, rolled pork, gammon)

Ask your butcher about smaller joints or half portions

Remember leftovers are only useful if you actually enjoy eating them

A perfectly cooked smaller joint beats a huge, dried-out one every time.

7. Reduce the “Nibble Creep”

It’s not the main meals that quietly drain your budget — it’s the constant grazing.

Instead of endless tubs of snacks:

Choose one savoury nibble and one sweet treat

Plate snacks rather than leaving bags open

Replace some nibbles with popcorn, nuts, or homemade dips

Less out means less eaten — and less wasted.

8. Batch Cook Once, Relax Later

Pre-Christmas batch cooking saves money and stress.

Make soups, stews, or curries for the days after Christmas

Use cheaper cuts of meat or plant-based proteins

Freeze portions so you’re not tempted by takeaway menus

Future-you will be very grateful.

9. Alcohol Is an Easy Place to Save

Festive drinks add up frighteningly fast.

Ways to cut back without feeling deprived:

Pick one “special” bottle and keep the rest simple

Add soft-drink mixers to stretch wine and spirits

Remember not everyone drinks, don’t buy for 'imaginary' guests

A smaller selection, enjoyed properly, costs far less than overflowing cupboards.

10. Accept That “Enough” Is Enough

Christmas marketing is designed to make you feel like you’re never doing quite enough.

But:

Enough food is enough

Enough choice is enough

Enough generosity is enough

A warm, relaxed Christmas table matters far more than excess.

Cutting your Christmas food bill isn’t about penny-pinching or denying yourself joy. It’s about spending intentionally, wasting less, and putting your money where it actually enhances your Christmas, whether that’s one lovely meal, a bottle you’ll truly enjoy, or simply the peace of mind that January won’t start with regret.

A calmer Christmas starts in the kitchen — and often, in the shopping list.