Celebrating Christmas in New Zealand: A Kiwi Summer Festivity

While many of us associate Christmas with snow, hot chocolate, and cosy fires, Christmas in New Zealand tells a very different story. 

Taking place in the heart of summer, Kiwi Christmas celebrations are filled with sunshine, beaches, and backyard barbecues. Let’s take a closer look at how New Zealanders celebrate Christmas in a style that is uniquely their own.

1. Christmas in the Summertime

Since New Zealand is located in the Southern Hemisphere, December marks the beginning of summer, meaning Christmas falls during warm, sunny weather. 

Instead of wrapping up in winter coats, New Zealanders spend their Christmas in shorts, sun hats, and jandals (flip-flops). Many families head to the beach or set up the traditional "Kiwi Christmas BBQ" in the garden, making the most of the long summer days.

2. Kiwi Barbecue and Seafood Feasts

Traditional British Christmas dinners with roast turkey and gravy have their place in some New Zealand households, but the summer climate often calls for a lighter, fresher menu. Barbecues with sausages, steaks, lamb chops, and fresh seafood like prawns and crayfish are popular. For dessert, you might find pavlova, a meringue-based dish topped with whipped cream and fresh summer fruits like strawberries and kiwifruit – a quintessentially Kiwi sweet treat.

3. The Pohutukawa Tree – New Zealand’s Christmas Tree

New Zealand’s unique take on Christmas extends to its natural environment. Instead of the traditional pine tree, many Kiwis look to the Pohutukawa tree as a symbol of Christmas. This native tree blooms with bright red flowers in December, and its vibrant colour and beauty have earned it the nickname "New Zealand's Christmas tree." The sight of Pohutukawa trees along coastlines in full bloom perfectly complements the summery Christmas feel.

4. Festive Outdoor Fun

A New Zealand Christmas often includes plenty of outdoor activities. Families and friends gather for games of cricket in the garden, beach picnics, or a day spent swimming, paddleboarding, or surfing. The emphasis is on togetherness, relaxation, and making the most of the beautiful summer weather.

In some regions, communities also host outdoor Christmas parades, concerts, and events, with many people enjoying these gatherings under the evening sun.

5. Santa in the Sun

Despite the warm weather, Santa Claus remains a beloved figure in New Zealand’s Christmas celebrations. Many towns and cities hold Santa Parades, where floats, dancers, and performers showcase the festive spirit. It’s not uncommon to see Santa swapping his sleigh for a surfboard, jet ski, or a decorated tractor, fully embracing the summer vibes.

6. Carols by Candlelight

A cherished tradition in New Zealand is Carols by Candlelight, where families and communities come together to sing Christmas carols in parks or outdoor venues. Held in the lead-up to Christmas, these events often include live music, performances, and a festive atmosphere as people light candles at dusk, enjoying the Christmas spirit in the glow of summer twilight.

7. Christmas Presents and Holiday Breaks

In true Kiwi fashion, many people give practical, outdoor-themed gifts like beach gear, summer clothing, or sporting equipment. Christmas Day is typically spent with family, but it also marks the beginning of a long holiday break. With school holidays and many businesses closing between Christmas and New Year, it’s a prime time for summer road trips, camping, or heading to the bach (a holiday home) by the beach.

8. Boxing Day Tradition

Boxing Day (26th December) is also widely celebrated in New Zealand. It’s a time for extended family gatherings, more barbecues, beach trips, and of course, Boxing Day sales in the shops. Many Kiwis use the day to relax after the busyness of Christmas Day or to spend time outdoors making the most of the summer break.

Conclusion

Christmas in New Zealand is a unique fusion of festive traditions and summery vibes. With barbecues, beach outings, and the vibrant Pohutukawa tree, Kiwis celebrate Christmas in a way that perfectly suits their warm-weather lifestyle. Whether you're a local or a visitor, experiencing a New Zealand Christmas is a joyful, sun-soaked celebration that captures the laid-back, friendly spirit of the country.

Meri Kirihimete! (Merry Christmas in Māori)

A Warm Welcome to Bardinet French Brandy: Your Christmas Drinks Cabinet Essential

As the Christmas season approaches, many of us start planning our festive menus, stocking up on treats, and, most importantly, selecting the perfect beverages to complement the celebrations. 

If you're searching for a versatile and affordable addition to your Christmas drinks cabinet, look no further than Bardinet French Brandy. 

This beautifully crafted spirit delivers both quality and value, making it an excellent choice for the holiday season. Here's why you should consider it for your Christmas drinks selection.

A Taste of Tradition and Craftsmanship

Bardinet French Brandy has been a staple in the world of brandy for over a century, with roots dating back to 1857. This rich history of craftsmanship is apparent in every sip. The brandy is distilled from fine French wines, which are aged in oak casks to develop a smooth, well-rounded flavour profile.

One of Bardinet’s most appealing qualities is its balanced flavour—it's not too overpowering, yet it still has the depth you expect from a good brandy. You’ll notice notes of dried fruits, caramel, and a touch of vanilla, which work together to create a warm, inviting taste. The smoothness of Bardinet makes it an excellent standalone sip, perfect for those cold winter nights by the fire.

Versatility in Christmas Cocktails

Bardinet’s versatility is what truly sets it apart, especially for those who enjoy mixing drinks during the holidays. Whether you're crafting classic cocktails or trying something new, Bardinet provides the perfect base spirit.

Brandy Eggnog, for instance, is a Christmas classic, and Bardinet brings the richness and warmth that makes this festive favourite sing. Its subtle sweetness also works well in brandy punch or hot toddies, ideal for warming up your guests on chilly December evenings. For a simpler yet elegant option, you can mix Bardinet with ginger ale and a squeeze of fresh lemon for a light, refreshing cocktail to enjoy before or after dinner.

Affordability Without Compromising Quality

Christmas can be an expensive time of year, so finding a quality brandy at an affordable price is key. Bardinet is often available at a very reasonable price point compared to other premium brandies. Despite being budget-friendly, it does not compromise on quality, making it a smart addition to your drinks collection. You’ll get the satisfaction of enjoying a sophisticated spirit without breaking the bank, which is especially appreciated during the busy (and often costly) holiday season.

The Perfect Gift

If you're looking for a thoughtful yet affordable gift for the spirits lover in your life, Bardinet French Brandy is an excellent option. Its classic presentation and reputation for quality make it a welcome addition to any drinks cabinet. Pair it with a set of beautiful brandy glasses, and you’ve got a perfect gift for a friend or family member who appreciates the finer things in life.

Final Thoughts

Bardinet French Brandy delivers on all fronts—flavour, versatility, and value. Whether you enjoy it neat, in a cocktail, or as a heart-warming gift, it’s a perfect fit for the festive season. Adding Bardinet to your Christmas drinks cabinet is a surefire way to elevate your holiday gatherings and ensure your guests leave with a smile.

This year, let Bardinet French Brandy bring warmth, tradition, and a little bit of indulgence to your Christmas celebrations. Cheers to a season filled with good company, great food, and even better drinks!

My wife and I found this to be a delicious VSOP brandy which we are now keeping in our Christmas drinks cabinet.

Have you tried Bardinet French Brandy? Share your festive cocktail recipes or experiences in the comments!

Review of Glen Moray Twisted Vine Single Malt Scotch Whisky

This is a truly spectacular find and one that deserves to be in Christmas stockings this year and also in your Christmas drinks cabinet.

When it comes to Scotch whisky, Glen Moray has long been a trusted name, known for crafting accessible yet complex drams. 

Their latest release, Glen Moray Twisted Vine, is a single malt that promises an enticing fusion of traditional Speyside character with a modern twist. As an avid whisky enthusiast, I was eager to explore this unique offering. Here's my take on this intriguing expression.

Overview: A Wine-Inspired Whisky

Glen Moray’s Twisted Vine single malt is part of their ‘Curiosity’ range, where experimentation with maturation and finishing techniques takes centre stage. This particular bottling has been finished in ex-wine casks, a growing trend in whisky production. The use of wine casks is intended to impart additional layers of flavour complexity, often resulting in a vibrant and fruit-forward whisky. Given Speyside’s reputation for producing lighter, fruitier Scotch, this finishing method seemed like a natural fit.

Appearance: Golden Amber Delight

Pouring the whisky into the glass, the first thing you notice is its warm, golden amber hue, an inviting colour that hints at its maturation in wine barrels. The legs are medium, suggesting a balanced mouthfeel and perhaps a moderate alcohol content.

Nose: Rich, Fruity, and Enticing

On the nose, Twisted Vine does not disappoint. There’s an immediate burst of fruitiness – think ripe red berries and dark cherries, followed by a subtle note of vanilla and oak from the cask ageing. As it opens up, a slightly spicy note of cinnamon and a trace of dried apricot emerge, adding to its complexity. The influence of the wine cask is clear, but it integrates smoothly with Glen Moray’s signature fresh and malty backbone.

Palate: Balanced and Lively

Taking the first sip, Twisted Vine reveals its true charm. The palate is rich and smooth, with layers of fruit—plums, blackcurrants, and raisins—all enveloped in a velvety mouthfeel. The influence of the wine cask brings out a slight tannic dryness, balancing the sweetness of the fruit. Mid-palate, you get a touch of dark chocolate, cinnamon spice, and a hint of oak. There’s a lovely balance between the sweetness of the malt and the slightly tart, vinous notes from the wine barrels. It’s not overly complex, but it’s engaging and easy to sip.

Finish: Lingering and Satisfying

The finish is medium in length, with a pleasant warmth that lingers. You’re left with a mix of dried fruits, gentle spice, and a whisper of oak. There’s a subtle dryness from the wine cask that leaves your palate clean, ready for the next sip.

Final Thoughts: A Modern Take on Tradition

Glen Moray Twisted Vine is an enjoyable and approachable single malt that offers a nice balance between tradition and innovation. It’s not the most complex whisky you’ll ever try, but that’s part of its charm. The wine cask finish adds a layer of fruity depth and a touch of modern flair without overpowering the classic Speyside character.

This whisky would appeal to those who enjoy a fruit-forward dram with a smooth, slightly dry finish. It’s also a great choice for whisky enthusiasts looking to explore how wine cask maturation can enhance the profile of a single malt. Priced reasonably, Twisted Vine is a solid offering from Glen Moray’s experimental range and worth a try for anyone looking to expand their whisky palate.

In conclusion, Glen Moray Twisted Vine is a testament to how a little experimentation can breathe new life into a familiar favourite. While it might not blow seasoned whisky drinkers away with complexity, its vibrant fruitiness and well-balanced character make it an ideal bottle for easy sipping or sharing with friends.

Rating: 8/10

Best for: Fruit-forward whisky lovers, those curious about wine cask finishes.

Avoid if: You prefer heavily peated or sherry-heavy whiskies.

It's widely available from supermarkets and specialist Scotch retailers.

Baking Special Breads for Christmas Week: A Festive Tradition

As the chill of December fills the air and the festive season begins, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked bread to warm up your home. 

Christmas week is a time for family, celebration, and indulgence, and what better way to mark the occasion than by baking a selection of special breads that can be enjoyed throughout the holiday?

Here are some delightful breads to add a festive touch to your Christmas week.

1. Stollen: A German Classic

Stollen is a rich, fruit-filled bread that’s synonymous with Christmas. Originating in Germany, this bread is traditionally packed with dried fruits, nuts, marzipan, and a blend of warm spices like cinnamon and cardamom. Dusted with icing sugar, Stollen resembles a snowy winter landscape, making it a perfect centrepiece for your Christmas table.

Ingredients:

500g strong white bread flour

100g caster sugar

10g salt

150ml warm milk

1 egg

100g unsalted butter

200g dried mixed fruits (such as raisins, currants, and sultanas)

100g marzipan

1 tsp ground cinnamon

Zest of 1 lemon and 1 orange

Icing sugar for dusting

Method:

Combine the flour, sugar, and salt in a large mixing bowl.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the warm milk, egg, and butter until well combined.

Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the flour mixture to form a dough.

Knead for about 10 minutes, then add in the dried fruits, zest, and spices.

Let the dough rise for an hour in a warm place.

Once risen, shape the dough and place the marzipan in the centre, folding it over to seal.

Bake at 180°C for 30-35 minutes, until golden brown.

Once cooled, dust generously with icing sugar and serve with mulled wine or hot chocolate.

2. Panettone: The Italian Sweet Bread

Panettone is an Italian Christmas classic that has become beloved worldwide. This tall, sweet bread is light, airy, and studded with candied fruits, citrus peel, and sometimes chocolate. It’s perfect for breakfast on Christmas morning or as an afternoon treat with a cup of tea.

Ingredients:

600g strong white bread flour

100g caster sugar

10g salt

250ml warm milk

3 eggs

150g unsalted butter

200g mixed candied fruits

1 tsp vanilla extract

Zest of 1 lemon

1 tsp yeast

Method:

Start by dissolving the yeast in the warm milk and setting it aside for 5 minutes until frothy.

Mix the flour, sugar, and salt in a large bowl.

Add the yeast mixture, eggs, butter, vanilla, and zest into the dry ingredients, forming a sticky dough.

Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth.

Incorporate the candied fruits, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Allow the dough to rise for at least two hours, or until doubled in size.

Shape the dough and place it in a high-sided tin or panettone mould, then bake at 180°C for 40-45 minutes, until golden and risen.

Once cooled, dust with icing sugar or glaze with melted chocolate for an extra indulgent touch.

3. Cranberry and Orange Spiced Loaf

This fruity, spiced loaf is a delightful addition to any Christmas spread. The tartness of cranberries combined with the zestiness of oranges creates a harmonious flavour, while the addition of cinnamon and cloves adds that warming, Christmassy vibe.

Ingredients:

500g plain flour

100g light brown sugar

1 tsp ground cinnamon

½ tsp ground cloves

10g salt

100g dried cranberries

Zest of 2 oranges

300ml warm milk

100g unsalted butter

1 egg

Method:

Combine the flour, sugar, spices, and salt in a mixing bowl.

Mix in the milk, butter, and egg to form a dough.

Fold in the cranberries and orange zest.

Knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth.

Allow the dough to rise for about an hour, or until doubled in size.

Shape the dough into a loaf, place it in a tin, and bake at 180°C for 30-35 minutes.

Brush the top with melted butter once out of the oven, then allow it to cool.

Serve warm with butter or a tangy orange marmalade.

4. Irish Barmbrack: A Taste of Tradition

Though traditionally baked around Halloween, Barmbrack is a wonderful spiced fruit loaf that also fits perfectly into the Christmas week celebrations. It’s light, sweet, and best enjoyed with lashings of butter and a strong cup of tea.

Ingredients:

500g strong white bread flour

75g sugar

10g salt

1 tsp ground cinnamon

1 tsp ground nutmeg

200ml warm milk

1 egg

100g dried fruits

Zest of 1 lemon

1 tsp yeast

Method:

Mix the flour, sugar, spices, and yeast in a bowl.

Add the warm milk and egg, forming a dough.

Knead for 8 minutes, then fold in the dried fruits and lemon zest.

Let the dough rise for an hour, then shape into a round loaf.

Bake at 190°C for 35-40 minutes, until golden brown.

Once cooled, serve with butter and perhaps a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar.

Conclusion

Christmas week is the perfect time to bake something truly special. These festive breads add a personal and traditional touch to your celebrations, filling your home with warmth, wonderful aromas, and delicious flavours. Whether you’re gathering with family, hosting friends, or simply enjoying a quiet day by the fire, these breads are sure to bring joy to your tabl

Happy baking, and Merry Christmas!

A Guide to Choosing New and Different Cheeses for Your Christmas Cheeseboard (and Interesting Crackers to Pair!)

As the festive season approaches, it's time to start planning that all-important Christmas cheeseboard. While the classics like mature Cheddar, Stilton, and Brie have earned their place on the table, this year, why not surprise your guests with something a little different? 

Whether you're hosting a Christmas feast or attending one, a well-curated cheeseboard can be the centrepiece that leaves a lasting impression.

Here's how to take your cheeseboard to the next level by adding some lesser-known but equally delightful cheeses, and some unique crackers to complement them.

1. Explore the World of Artisan Cheeses

This year, try stepping beyond the familiar British and French options and seek out artisan cheeses from around the world. Look for local cheesemongers or high-quality delis where you can explore new varieties, and ask for recommendations. Here are a few to consider:

Aged Manchego (Spain) – This nutty, firm cheese is made from sheep's milk and aged for at least six months. It has a rich, buttery flavour that is less sharp than a cheddar but full of character.

Comté (France) – A creamy yet firm cheese, aged for at least a year, Comté offers a slightly sweet and nutty taste. It's a superb addition if you're looking to replace your usual Gruyère or similar Alpine cheeses.

Gorgonzola Dolce (Italy) – If you're a blue cheese lover, try the creamier, softer cousin of Gorgonzola Piccante. Gorgonzola Dolce is less tangy, with a sweet, almost honey-like undertone, making it perfect for spreading.

Morbier (France) – Known for its characteristic black layer of vegetable ash running through the centre, Morbier is a semi-soft cow's milk cheese with a mild yet earthy flavour. It's great for guests who aren't keen on anything too strong but still want something interesting.

Gubbeen (Ireland) – This semi-soft washed rind cheese has a buttery texture with a fruity, slightly tangy taste. Its pink rind gives it a unique appearance that will certainly add some colour to your board.

Cornish Yarg (England) – This distinctive British cheese is wrapped in nettles and has a crumbly yet creamy texture. It offers a delicate tang that contrasts beautifully with heavier cheeses like Stilton or cheddar.

2. Add a Variety of Milk Types

Balance your cheeseboard by including cheeses made from different types of milk—cow, sheep, and goat’s milk each bring a unique flavour profile. Sheep’s milk cheeses like Pecorino or Manchego have a nutty richness, while goat’s milk cheeses such as Valençay or Crottin de Chavignol provide a tangy, fresh note that complements richer, creamier cheeses.

3. Consider Texture and Strength

A great cheeseboard is all about balance. Ensure you have a range of textures—from creamy soft cheeses to hard, crumbly varieties. When it comes to flavour, aim for a spectrum that ranges from mild and delicate to strong and bold.

Example Cheese Selection:

Soft and Creamy: Camembert, Gorgonzola Dolce

Firm and Nutty: Aged Manchego, Comté

Tangy and Crumbly: Cornish Yarg, Goats’ Cheese

Strong and Pungent: Gorgonzola, Stilton

4. Interesting Crackers to Try

The choice of crackers can elevate your cheeseboard from good to extraordinary. Rather than opting for the usual plain water biscuits, why not try some crackers that bring out the best in the cheeses you're serving? Here are a few options to consider:

Charcoal Crackers – These visually striking black crackers pair wonderfully with creamier cheeses like brie and camembert. Their crispness and slightly earthy taste offer a perfect contrast to the soft texture.

Oatcakes – A Scottish favourite, oatcakes have a wholesome, nutty flavour that complements rich, buttery cheeses such as Comté or Gubbeen. They're also fantastic with blue cheeses.

Seeded Crackers – Crackers studded with sesame, pumpkin, or sunflower seeds add a nutty crunch that works well with both mild cheeses like goat’s cheese and stronger varieties like aged cheddar.

Rye Crackers – The deep, slightly sour flavour of rye crackers is excellent with tangy or smoky cheeses. Try them with a strong blue cheese like Gorgonzola or a rich, soft cheese like Morbier.

Rosemary and Sea Salt Crisps – These delicate crisps have a fragrant herb flavour and pair particularly well with Manchego or any mild, creamy cheese. The rosemary enhances the subtle nuttiness in cheese without overpowering it.

Fruit and Nut Biscuits – Sweet, nutty biscuits such as those made with figs or dates bring out the fruity notes in cheeses like Cornish Yarg or soft goat's cheese. They can also balance out the saltiness of blue cheese.

5. Add Seasonal Fruits and Preserves

No cheeseboard is complete without some well-chosen accompaniments. Winter fruits like figs, pears, and grapes not only provide sweetness but also a refreshing contrast to the richness of cheese. For a festive touch, include a cranberry or spiced apple chutney, or perhaps some quince jelly.

6. A Tipple to Pair

Finally, don’t forget to serve your cheeseboard with the right drinks. A bold red wine like a Rioja or a rich port pairs beautifully with strong cheeses like Stilton. If you're serving more delicate cheeses, a crisp white wine such as a Sauvignon Blanc or a fruity cider can complement without overwhelming.

In Summary

With a little creativity, your Christmas cheeseboard can be a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds. By choosing cheeses from different countries, experimenting with milk types, and offering an array of textures, you’ll create a truly memorable experience for your guests. And don’t forget to have fun with the crackers! The perfect pairing can elevate the flavours of your cheeses and turn your festive cheeseboard into a real showstopper.

So, this Christmas, step out of your comfort zone and enjoy exploring new cheeses and crackers—after all, the festive season is all about indulgence!

A Typical Nigerian Christmas: A Celebration of Culture, Family, and Faith

As part of an occasional series about Christmas celebrations around the world, That's Christmas is publishing a blogpost about Christmas in Nigeria,

Christmas is a season of joy, warmth, and togetherness across the world, and Nigeria is no exception. 

However, in Nigeria, the festive period carries its own unique flair, deeply rooted in cultural traditions, religious observance, and a vibrant display of community spirit. 

A typical Nigerian Christmas is a vivid celebration that blends the old with the new, with each family and community adding its own special touch to the festivities. 

From bustling markets to joyous carols, from traditional dishes to colourful attire, Christmas in Nigeria is a heartwarming event that reflects the country’s rich diversity and enduring faith.

Preparation: The Festive Build-Up

The excitement of Christmas begins weeks before 25th December. In urban areas like Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt, streets and shopping malls are transformed into a dazzling display of twinkling lights, Christmas trees, and decorations. Radio stations fill the airwaves with a mix of local carols and Western classics, setting the festive tone.

In rural communities, the preparations take a slightly different form. Family homes are cleaned and freshly painted in anticipation of guests, while markets overflow with goods for the season. People flock to these markets to purchase clothes, gifts, and the ingredients for the Christmas feast. This period of preparation is one of reunion and reconnection, as many Nigerians who live abroad or in major cities return to their hometowns to celebrate with extended family.

The Christmas Eve Traditions

Christmas Eve in Nigeria is marked by a series of traditions. For many, it’s a day of worship, with Christians attending church services for prayers, carol singing, and thanksgiving. Churches are adorned with Christmas lights and nativity scenes, with choirs singing local Christmas carols in English, as well as in indigenous languages like Yoruba, Igbo, and Hausa.

In some regions, fireworks are a popular tradition, lighting up the night sky as children and families gather outdoors to watch. The streets are filled with the sound of laughter, music, and celebration as anticipation builds for the next day.

Christmas Day: A Feast for the Senses

Christmas Day itself is a colourful and lively affair. In the morning, many families head to church for a special service, giving thanks for the birth of Jesus Christ. After church, the focus shifts to family gatherings, food, and festivities. One of the most beloved aspects of a Nigerian Christmas is the grand feast that follows the service.

The Christmas Feast: Every Nigerian Christmas table is brimming with a variety of mouthwatering dishes, and the specific menu varies depending on the region. In the southern parts of Nigeria, dishes such as jollof rice, fried rice, pounded yam, and egusi soup are staples. In the north, specialities like tuwo shinkafa (a rice-based dish) and miyan kuka (a local soup) make their way onto the table. Grilled chicken, beef, or suya (spicy skewered meat) is common in many households, and no Nigerian Christmas is complete without drinks like zobo (a hibiscus drink) and malt beverages.

Community and Sharing: The Spirit of Christmas

What truly sets a Nigerian Christmas apart is the sense of community. It is common for families to cook extra portions of food and share them with neighbours and the less fortunate. The act of giving and sharing is central to the celebration, and it’s not unusual to see neighbours exchanging dishes, gifts, and Christmas hampers filled with treats. In some communities, children go from house to house singing Christmas songs and are often given small presents or money in return.

Another important aspect of the holiday is the wearing of new clothes. Families often dress in their best attire, sometimes even in coordinated aso ebi (matching fabrics worn by a group), reflecting the unity and festivity of the season. Traditional fabrics like Ankara, lace, and agbada (for men) are often chosen, with bright colours symbolising the joy of the occasion.

Boxing Day Celebrations

The day after Christmas, known as Boxing Day, is equally festive in Nigeria. Many people continue the celebrations with extended family and friends. It’s another day filled with visits, parties, and feasting. In some regions, cultural festivals or masquerade processions take place, adding a traditional element to the modern Christmas celebration.

Conclusion: A Unique Blend of Traditions

A Nigerian Christmas is a beautiful blend of cultural traditions, faith, and community. It’s a time for reflection and thanksgiving, but also for joy, laughter, and celebration. Whether in the city or the village, Nigerians embrace the season with open hearts, drawing on both their Christian faith and their rich cultural heritage. In this, Christmas in Nigeria is more than just a holiday—it’s a time to strengthen family bonds, to reconnect with loved ones, and to share in the spirit of giving.

Whether you're enjoying a plate of jollof rice with friends or singing Christmas carols under the tropical sky, a Nigerian Christmas is an unforgettable experience that celebrates both the birth of Christ and the beauty of togetherness.

Giving Charitable Donations as Christmas Gifts: A Meaningful Way to Celebrate

As the festive season approaches, the search for the perfect Christmas gift often becomes a source of stress. 

We want to give something meaningful, thoughtful, and memorable to our loved ones, but how many times have we found ourselves stuck in the loop of buying material items that quickly lose their significance? 

This year, why not consider giving a gift that not only honours your recipient but also makes a real impact in the world—charitable donations in their name.

The Gift That Gives Back

In a time where consumerism tends to take centre stage during the Christmas period, donating to a charity on behalf of someone else is a refreshing, ethical, and heartfelt alternative. It’s a way of spreading the true spirit of the holiday season: kindness, compassion, and generosity. Rather than buying more "things," you can give something that truly matters—a gift that changes lives.

Charitable donations can support causes close to your recipient’s heart, making it an incredibly

 personalised and meaningful gesture. Whether they care about environmental conservation, animal welfare, education, healthcare, or social justice, there are countless organisations that could benefit from your support.

Why Donations Make Meaningful Gifts

1. Thoughtfulness Beyond the Present

A donation is more than just a gift; it’s a reflection of what your loved one stands for. If you know someone who cares deeply about wildlife, donating to an animal sanctuary or a conservation charity shows that you’ve thought carefully about their values and interests.

2. A Sustainable Choice

In a world facing environmental challenges, many of us are trying to reduce waste and live more sustainably. Instead of adding to the pile of consumer goods, charitable donations contribute to meaningful causes without the environmental footprint of traditional gifts. No wrapping paper, no packaging, just pure goodwill.

3. Long-Lasting Impact

Unlike material gifts, which may be forgotten in a few months, the effects of charitable donations can last much longer. Whether it's helping to feed a family in need, providing education to children in disadvantaged areas, or supporting medical research, your gift can have a lasting impact on people's lives.

How to Give Charitable Donations as Gifts

If you’re ready to make a difference this Christmas, here’s how to go about it:

1. Choose a Cause That Resonates

Think about what matters most to the recipient. Are they passionate about climate action, supporting local food banks, or protecting endangered species? Find a charity that aligns with their values to make the gift more personal.

2. Research the Charity

Make sure the charity is reputable and transparent with how it uses donations. Websites like Charity Commission (UK) or Charity Navigator (US) can provide insight into an organisation’s legitimacy and financial practices. Trustworthy charities will ensure your donation is making the most impact.

3. Present the Gift Thoughtfully

You can get creative with how you present your donation gift. Many charities provide downloadable gift certificates or cards that you can give to the recipient. You could also write a heartfelt note explaining why you chose this particular charity and what the donation will go towards.

4. Set a Tradition

Consider making this a new holiday tradition. Each year, you can donate to a different cause, spreading goodwill to various organisations and communities over time. It’s a great way to give back and keep the spirit of giving alive.

Charitable Ideas to Get You Started

Here are a few ideas for donations that can suit a variety of interests:

For the Animal Lover: Donate to organisations like WWF or Battersea Dogs & Cats Home to support wildlife conservation or animal rescue efforts.

For the Environmentalist: Help tackle climate change by donating to charities like Friends of the Earth or The Woodland Trust.

For the Humanitarian: Consider organisations such as Oxfam, UNICEF, or local food banks that help fight poverty, hunger, and inequality.

For the Health Advocate: Support charities like Cancer Research UK or Mind, which focus on medical research and mental health support.

A Gift That Spreads Joy

Giving charitable donations in the name of a gift recipient isn’t just about doing something nice for someone; it’s about spreading joy far beyond the people we know. It’s about lifting up communities, protecting the planet, and helping those in need. This Christmas, let’s embrace the true meaning of the season and give gifts that truly make a difference.

Happy holidays, and may your generosity inspire others to do the same!