Most of us enjoy a fairly traditional Christmas. We spend time with friends and family, share gifts with loved ones and enjoy a huge Christmas dinner before settling down to watch a movie with wine and chocolates. There are, of course, variations to this and personal family traditions that get built into our days. But the basics are often reasonably similar, the only significant changes coming when we have children and again when our children start spending Christmas with their families. But there are no rules. Sometimes, we need a change.
Fortunately, there are plenty of non-traditional ways to enjoy Christmas.
A Big Family Getaway to a Cabin
Stepping away from tradition doesn’t mean ditching all of the elements of a traditional Christmas you love. There’s no reason you can’t keep the important things, like spending time with the people you love and making other changes, like the setting.
Take a look at these Selby lodges with hot tub. There’s plenty of room for your family. You can still cook a traditional dinner if you want to. But you won’t have the stress of everyone coming to your home, you’ll be able to enjoy extended time together, and there’s nothing more magical than a festive walk after lunch.
Ditch the Turkey
Another way to keep some elements of tradition while trying something new is to ditch the turkey. Cooking something different or even eating out and trying something new (remember, not every culture celebrates Christmas, and plenty of more exotic cuisine will be available) can be a great way to add something new to your day.
Volunteer Work
If you really want to enjoy the magic of Christmas, spending the day volunteering with a shelter or soup kitchen is a fantastic way to give back, spread some joy and help those in need to mark Christmas. Look for charities in your local area.
Take a Cruise
If you want a luxury Christmas where you don’t have to worry about cooking or cleaning, a cruise could be perfect. You’ll be away from home and could spend Christmas somewhere magical with someone you love.
Go Skiing
Skiing at Christmas is both traditional, in the sense that it’s something we associate with Christmas, and non-traditional because it rarely snows at home. Heading to the slopes is a magical way to spend the holidays.
Visit the Southern Hemisphere
If you are used to a cold Christmas, flipping things around by visiting somewhere like Australia is a fantastic way to experience a totally different Christmas with its own traditions and routines.
Take on a Physical Challenge
Many of us see Christmas as a time to relax and indulge. But it doesn’t have to be. Instead of spending the day indoors, getting out for a long hike, an ice swim, a bike ride, or a winter climb can be a great way to challenge yourself and prepare for the new year.
Sometimes, we need a change to mark a significant event in our lives or because there’s been a big change, and following our Christmas routines just wouldn’t feel right. Sometimes, we just want to try something different. Whatever your reasons for wanting to try an alternative Christmas, plenty of options are available.
