The holidays are always a special time of year, no matter how you celebrate – and what makes it so magical is the people we get to spend it with. This year, there’s no need to get yourself into knots and bows about how to spend your time during the festive season. We’ve made it easy with these seven activities that you can do with your family and friends.
When choosing one of the outdoor activities, please remember to stay safe! Go in a group, keep an eye on your bag and phone and always be aware of your surroundings. You don’t want anyone ruining your Christmas cheer!
Dashing through the dough
Baking and cookie decorating are great ways to get into the spirit of the season. If you are kitchen
king or queen, now is your time to shine – whip up a batch of sugar cookies or gingerbread biscuits and invite your family for a fun day of icing… and eating, of course! If the oven is not your friend, many local companies offer cookie kits to make it easier.
The gift that keeps on giving
No matter where you are in Mzansi, there’s always a festive market nearby during this time of year. Organise a group trip with family and friends and make a day of it! This is the perfect place to get your bespoke gifts, unique snacks or even a sneaky something for yourself. After the tough time we’ve all had over the last few years, the vendors will really appreciate your business.
A tree-mendous day of crafting
Are you even celebrating the holidays if you aren’t covered in glitter or nursing a paper cut? November is unofficially the start of the festive crafting season and with just a few materials, you can make anything from gift wrap and holiday cards to tree ornaments and home décor. Popular DIY projects include handmade advent calendars and table crackers – both can be customised and reused! Get your friends and family involved to make it extra fun!
Merry and bright
There’s one thing that South Africans always bring to the table – and that’s gees! The holiday season is no different. Find out which neighbourhoods are going all out with their decorations and lights and take a drive to see them. Need more than the occasional Boney M song on the radio? Now is the time to book your seats to Carols by Candlelight or check on social media for upcoming festive-themed shows.
Enjoy the present and pass it on
‘Tis the season to go through your cupboards to take stock of what you don’t need anymore. Do you have clothes that don’t fit you? Recently upgraded your tech? Maybe your child has grown out of some of their toys or you have an appliance you don’t use? Make someone’s day and donate it to a local charity, shelter or hospice.
Have an ice day
Craving a winter wonderland or needing to escape the summer heat? We may not have the picturesque snow-capped mountains, skiing and log cabins that are so synonymous with a North American Christmas but we do have ice skating! Get a group together and head to the rink for a few hours of frosty fun with your favourite people!
Treat someone elf
For many, the festive period is about giving and sharing. These acts of service don’t need to involve elaborate gifts or a shopping spree – they can be as simple and beautiful as spending time with others. Soup kitchens, donation drives and shelters are always looking for volunteers. Another way to make a difference is to put together a few Santa shoeboxes for children in need – it’s also a great feel-good group activity!
