Christmas can be a really busy month, so much so that we end up running around like crazy and sometimes forgetting to slow down and enjoy it all. But by Christmas Eve, everything should have calmed down and you should be feeling more ready to go and organised. And now is a good time to come back down to earth and start feeling festive. For some ideas on how to have the best Christmas Eve ever, scroll below:
1. Game Night
Christmas is no doubt a time for family. My favourite Christmas Eve memories take me back to all of us sitting around the kitchen table and playing games. These games don't have to be brand-new, they don't even have to be festive, as long as you're all together and laughing. Try out board games like Monopoly, Ludo and Cluedo, or why not break out the classic, Twister?
However, if you do like to keep things traditional during Christmas, why not try out a Tudor Christmas and partake in some traditions from centuries ago!
2. Candlelit Communion
One of my other absolute favourite Christmas traditions is attending Midnight Mass. It's a Christmas tradition for many families across the country. And for me, there's no better way to kick start Christmas than with a candlelit communion.
The St Andrew's Church in Cobham is one of many churches being host to Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve. The day will begin with a Crib Service at 3pm and the Mass Service will begin at 11.00 pm. For more Unmissable carol concerts happening this Christmas click here.
3. Christmas Markets
Mulled wine at Christmas is a must, let's face it. But rather than having a few glasses at home, why not venture out and enjoy one at a Christmas market instead. You'll also have the chance to grab any last-minute Christmas gifts and enjoy all the festivities before the end of the season.
Check out Kingston Market if you haven't done so already, where you can enjoy so amazing street-food, traditional stalls and of course mulled wine. However, if you fancy venturing further afield I would highly recommend visiting Winterville in Clapham, which is the hotspot this year!
4. Take A Skate
You can't disagree that there's just something special about ice skating during the winter season. That's why I like to put myself in special locations, doing something different and making sure that I'm creating worthwhile memories. Now, I'm not the most talented ice-skater, but it's a fun activity that can be truly enjoyed by all the family.
This year, my favourite has to be the Natural History Museum's ice rink. It's the first year that I've actually checked it out, and I must say, the backdrop alone makes the whole experience something special. However, if you're looking something a little closer to home then check out the top 8 places to skate this season here.
5. Catch A Movie
Another of my favourite Christmas traditions is cosying up with a Christmas movie next to the ones I love. At Christmas, I get a little obsessed with Christmas movies - and who can really blame me? I spend the whole month watching at least one movie every evening, but Christmas Eve I save the best for last.
There will be screenings of Chistmas family films such Home Alone and The Polar Express at the Everyman Cinema. The classic film It's A Wonderful Life is also being screened on Christmas Eve, which I have been unable to resist the urge to book tickets for! Book yours here.
6. See The Lights
One of the best things about Christmas is all the light installations around town. They really make you feel festive, plus, most of the time, they're really pretty to look at. And this year, Surrey has been transformed.
One of my favourite spots this time of year is Kew Gardens, and those wishing to grab tickets should be sure to grab them before they are sold out! You can book your spot to see the Kew lights here. If the journey to Kew is too far for you, worry not as The Festive Illuminations at RHS Gardens Wisley are also available to visit this Christmas Eve! Visit the link here for more information on booking.
7. Last-Minute Gift Shopping
If you're anything like me, you'll still be grabbing last-minute bits and bobs on Christmas Eve. Every year I promise myself that I'll be more organised, however, there's always something extra I need to grab, no matter how prepared I try to be. And although Christmas shopping is usually chaotic and busy, there's something about it I like.
So, if you're looking for the best places to shop then check out the top 6 destinations for Christmas shopping in Surrey here.
Cinderella, Woking | © 2018 Ian Olsson Photography
8. Catch A Show
A good pantomime in unavoidable this time of year, plus at the moment, the county is playing hostess to some of the best around. Some of our top picks are Robin Hood in The Yvonne Arnaud Theatre, Sleeping Beauty in The New Victoria Theatre and Snow White and The Seven Dwarves in Fairfield Halls.
9. Host Your Own Movie Night
Sometimes, you can't be bothered to go out on Christmas Eve and that's ok too. It's been a busy month for all, and sometimes when you have kids, it's easier just to get them in their pyjamas and snuggle up with a movie. Don't worry, you're still making memories and you're still being traditional.
Choose a movie that's a Christmas classic, or try something a little closer to home, check out our list of all the best films that were filmed in Surrey here.
10. Christmas Eve Party
Parties are never the easiest to organise, but remember, your Christmas Eve Party does not have to be the grandest event. You don't even need to be slaving over a stove for hours to make it happen either. Keep it simple, invite your closest loved ones and friends, play some music and keep the wine glasses filled.
Leave the catering to Marks & Spencers, who, at the minute are doing incredible party food selections that can ready to be cooked - all you need is an oven, a timer and a sparkly dress! If you want to make this night extra special too then invite some musicians, ask your friends to bring their instruments and have a fun, alternative evening.
Dan Hannington
11. Go For A Christmas Walk
It may be a little chilly outside, but that's no excuse to avoid taking a lovely wintery walk. For most of us, we have pets, so an evening walk is pretty unavoidable. So, why not try taking a route that you don't usually walk? The county is home to some spectacular views and landscapes, not to mention plenty of routes for you to take.
For the best routes, we've rounded up our favourite, magical winter walks here.
12. Pyjama Party
I don't know about you, but a huge tradition we took part in when I was growing up was being able to open one present on Christmas Eve. This would get me super excited for the next day and put me in the perfect, festive mood. However, I wouldn't be diving into Santa's sack - the presents were always the same. Every year, on Christmas Eve I would open a gift, which would always include new pyjamas.
In fact, all my siblings did - even my parents. We would all sit together on Christmas Eve with our new pyjamas on as a family and would literally have the world's best pyjama party! Is it a tradition you do too? Let me know in the comments below!
