Twixmas is that funny period between Christmas and New Year. It’s when the whole country feels like it’s in limbo. Some people are back at work, while others have the week sprawled ahead with no idea how to spend it.
Are we supposed to be productive during this period? Or, should we prioritise rest instead? Some may work their way through their leftover Twiglets and Terry’s Chocolate Oranges, while others are creating vision boards and planning for the new year.
Let’s take a look at where Twixmas came from, and if there’s a right way to spend it.
Why is it called ‘Twixmas’?
‘Betwix’ is an old English word for ‘between’. The word ‘Twixmas’, therefore, is a combination of Christmas and ‘Betwixt’. So, Twixmas essentially means ‘between Christmas’.
In the Middle Ages, for land workers, Twixmas was a time for rest, reflection, and enjoying quality time with loved ones, but in the 1800s, it was all about partying and shopping. But what are some ways you can enjoy Twixmas today?
5 ways to spend Twixmas
Deciding on things to do between Christmas and New Year is difficult. It’s different for everyone, but it’s a great time to do the things you don’t get a chance to in day-to-day life.
We’ve put together a guide on what to do between Christmas and New Year to help you decide how you’d like to spend twixmas this year.
1. Wholesome hobbies
Prioritising rest in Twixmas can be the best way to prepare for diving back into work in January. Lounge on the sofa, read through all the hilarious Christmas cards you received this year, and spend some time alone recharging that social battery.
Twixmas is the perfect time for slow mornings, nature walks, and watching festive movies in the comfort of your own home. Blend moving your body with restful activities, such as reading or crafting, for a balanced Twixmas period.
It’s also a good time to give your new Christmas goodies a whirl. Play that new video game, bake bread in your new bread maker, or try out your laptop you’ve been excited about since you opened it on Christmas morning.
2. Connecting with those you love
As Billy Mack in Love Actually said, “I realised that Christmas is the time to be with the people you love” – one of the more wholesome Christmas quotes from the character.
But this quote is true. Life gets busy, and family time becomes few and far between, so enjoy Twixmas and Christmas with your family. Play board games, watch telly together, and get out and about on adventures before it’s time to go back to reality.
What better time to visit friends or family who live a train, or plane away, than on the week where you have no plans at all? Go round for a brew, a chat, and a good old laugh to end your year on a high.
3. Make the most of leftovers
Most British households are guaranteed to have some leftovers after Christmas, whether it’s pigs in blankets and parsnips, advent calendar chocolate, or festive snacks you didn’t get around to eating. After all, you can’t let them go to waste!
Why not spend your Twixmas working your way through them?
The classic Christmas dinner leftover sandwich is an iconic activity to occupy your Twixmas. Get creative and see just how much you can fit in between two slices of bread.
Or binge-watch a new series, and you’ll have endless snacks to keep you going through the days.
But, in all seriousness, if you have plenty of food that is likely going to be wasted, consider donating unopened food to homeless charities, food banks, and those in need of some kindness this Christmas.
4. Take a holiday
You’re already out of work and school, so book a trip to recoup after a full-on Christmas period.
Jet off abroad to a sunny getaway, to lie by the pool, swim in the sea, and relax. Or, you can book a countryside getaway in the UK. Think glamping (or camping if you’re brave enough), lodges with hot tubs, caravans by the sea, or a luxury spa stay to really refresh yourself in time for the new year.
5. Prep for the new year
For some, Twixmas feels like a good time to prep for the year ahead. Start by setting your New Year’s resolutions, creating vision boards, and making a bucket list to complete over the year. You never know, you might actually stick to them this time!
Starting the new year with a clean home and mind sounds like bliss, so taking time to reset your home by taking down decor, deep cleaning, and ticking off any of those niggling chores that have been weighing on your mind will help you start the next year clear-minded and ready.
After all that adult stuff is done, it’s time to prepare for the New Year celebrations! Send out delightful New Year’s cards to your nearest and dearest to spread some cheer.
For those hosting a party, Twixmas is a good time to get a head start on decorating, prepping food, and stocking up on goodies for your guests.
Or if you’re a guest, find your hosts a nice gift to go with their lovely card, and get your outfit ready to go. Then, all you need to do is get ready and celebrate on New Year’s Eve!
‘Tis the season to send some cheer
Twixmas is the perfect moment to slow down, recharge, and share a little joy before the new year begins. Whether you’re spending the week resting, snacking, organising, or adventuring, make sure to brighten someone’s day with a heartfelt or hilariously cheeky card.
Remember, we’ve still got plenty of Christmas cards for those celebrating late (it happens!), plus a whole range of brilliantly funny, slightly naughty New Year’s cards which you can browse above.
Nothing spreads festive cheer faster than a card that lands at just the right moment.
