Embrace the chill and head outside for some fun this Christmas. Here are some of our favourite things to do this festive period.
1. Tree Dressing Day
No, we’re not just talking about hanging tinsel on your classic fir or Nordmann spruce – Tree Dressing Day celebrates the importance of trees and encourages us to value and care for them.
Established by Common Ground in 1990, this special day is designed to make us pause to reflect on the importance of trees and show our love for them. They clean our air, shade us from the sun, and enhance our environment. In fact, just a few minutes spent in woodland has been proven to improve our mental health. and reduce stress. Trees do us the world of good, so it’s only right we show our appreciation this December. 4th. It is the perfect excuse to come together with others to honour an important tree or clusters of trees in your community and adorn them with ribbons, letters, lanterns and other decorations. It is an ancient tradition that is still very relevant today, given the climate crisis and the vital role nature plays in our lives. For an alternative way to mark the day, why not plant a tree that can be celebrated in future years?
2. Outdoor movie night
There’s nothing quite like a good Christmas film to help you feel festive and you won’t be short of ideas when it comes to what to watch. Rather than curling up indoors, take it outside for a cosy cinema under the stars. Set the scene with a comfy sofa set made for snuggling like the Topaz XL Chaise Set or the Bahamas Chaise Lounge set for a laid-back movie for two. Bring blankets to keep off the chill, snacks and twinkling lights to set the mood. Extra guests can get comfortable with floor cushions and bean bags if there aren’t enough seats to go around or maybe make use of some stylish stacking chairs to create additional seating when needed.
3. Outdoor scavenger hunt
At first glance, woods during the winter might not appear to have much to offer in the way of fun but you’d be wrong! The lush green leaves of spring and summer might be long gone but there is still plenty to discover – from vibrant berries, to colourful fungi. Head to your local forest and challenge your family to complete an inspired festive scavenger courtesy of the Woodland Trust, finding eight Christmas-themed items in nature.
4. Carols by candlelight
Nothing is more atmospheric than Christmas music by candlelight, particularly on a brisk evening when you can see your breath and you’re wrapped up warm. Whether you take to the streets to sing carols door to door, join a carol concert at your local church, or belt out a few festive favourites in your garden, it’s a wonderful experience to have with others and is the perfect way to warm up more than your vocal chords.
5. Garden games night
If staring at a screen seems a bit unsociable, invite guests over for a fun games night. Keep the warming winter drinks flowing and the board games stacked ready to go for a night of fun. If you are a sucker for a theme, challenge guests with festive trivia or something more hands-on like a gingerbread house competition or even throwing faux snowballs at targets. Whatever gets you in the festive spirit, keep the mess outside and the good times rolling.
LifetstyleGarden has you covered this Christmas, with furniture collections to suit every space and every event. From stain-resistant Olefin® fabric that help sofa cushions stay looking pristine, to stunning FSC™ teak pieces in rich golden tones to complement any autumnal or festive scene, there is something for everyone.