In Between Christmas and the New Year
The stretch between Christmas and New Year’s Day is a unique time of the year. The hustle and bustle of holiday prep has passed, yet the new year hasn’t quite begun. It’s a rare opportunity to slow down, reflect, and savor the season before life resumes its usual pace. Here are some fun, meaningful, and productive ways to make the most of this special week in between Christmas and the New Year.
1. Reflect on the Year
Take time to look back on the highs and lows of the year. What brought you joy or what challenges did you overcome? What were you most proud of? Consider writing these reflections in a journal or creating a gratitude list to help you appreciate how far you’ve come.
2. Declutter and Donate
Use this week to tidy up your home and make space for the new year. Sort through closets, old toys, and unused holiday decorations. Donate gently used items to those in need—it’s a wonderful way to extend the holiday spirit.
3. Host a Post-Christmas Game Night
Keep the holiday cheer alive with a family game night. Bust out classic board games, holiday trivia, or even a themed “ugly sweater” video game tournament. This is the perfect time to enjoy those games received as gifts!
4. Get Outside
If the weather allows, spend some time outdoors. Whether it’s a snowy hike, an afternoon sledding, or a brisk walk to enjoy the crisp air, getting outside is a great way to recharge and reflect.
5. Have a Movie Marathon
Turn your living room into a cozy theater and binge-watch holiday classics or those movies you’ve been meaning to catch. Bonus points for themed snacks and hot cocoa!
6. Tackle a Creative Project
Channel your post-Christmas energy into creativity. Make a scrapbook of holiday photos, try a new recipe, or dive into an easy DIY project like organizing your ornaments or creating holiday keepsakes.
7. Plan Your New Year’s Eve Celebration
Whether it’s an elaborate party or a quiet night in, use this time to prepare for New Year’s Eve. Plan your menu, make a playlist, or shop for sparkling decor to ring in the new year in style.
8. Indulge in Leftovers
This is the perfect time to repurpose holiday leftovers into new dishes. From turkey sandwiches to creative desserts made from cookie crumbs, enjoy every last bite of your holiday feast.
9. Set Goals for the New Year
Start thinking about what you’d like to achieve in the coming year. Break your goals into manageable steps, whether it’s learning a new skill, improving your health, or starting a passion project.
10. Reconnect with Loved Ones
Take advantage of the downtime to call, write, or visit friends and family you didn’t get to see during the holidays. A simple “thinking of you” can mean a lot during this reflective time.
11. Pamper Yourself
After weeks of holiday planning and celebrating, you deserve some relaxation. Treat yourself to a spa night, a good book, or a long nap to recharge for the new year ahead.
12. Explore the After-Christmas Sales
Now’s the time to stock up on holiday decor, wrapping paper, and gifts for next year. Many stores offer deep discounts after Christmas, making it a smart time to shop.
13. Celebrate the Small Moments
Finally, don’t forget to slow down and appreciate the in-between moments. Sip your coffee slowly, enjoy the glow of your Christmas lights a little longer, and savor the quiet magic of this transitional week.
The week in between Christmas and the New Year is a chance to reset, recharge, and realign before stepping into the new year. How do you spend this unique time? Share your favorite traditions or new ideas in the comments below—I’d love to hear them!
