What to do in the Lead-up to Christmas: A Week-by-Week Guide

8th Oct 2025

Christmas is less than 100 days away, and this year, we’re going to help you avoid the chaos. By starting early, and doing a little preparation each week, you’ll enjoy more mince pies, more festive activities and more calm moments. 

Here’s a gentle week-by-week plan to make sure you stay on track and actually enjoy the Christmas season. 

Week 1 - 6/7 Weeks Before Christmas (Early November)

This week is all about getting ahead of the game. Start by thinking about what your budget is, what gifts you’re going to buy and confirm your travel plans. 

You could even start decluttering toys to prepare for the influx of new ones.

Week 2 - 5 / 6 Weeks Before Christmas (Mid-November)

Now’s the time to start shopping! For the littles, we have a gift shop packed with toys and stuffies, including collections from Elf on the Shelf, Jellycat and TY.

We also have advent calendars, beautiful wrapping paper and gift tags that will add a little bit of extra sparkle to your day. 

Week 3 - 4 / 5 Weeks Before Christmas (Late November)

If you’re feeling in the spirit, now might be the time to get the decorations out. You might find that your old tinsel has seen better days or your wreath has finally given up the ghost - but if you look now you’ll have time to replace them! Stockeld’s gift shop sells a selection of beautiful Christmas ornaments and decorations, perfect for revamping your tree.

Week 4 - 3 / 4 Weeks Before Christmas (First Week of December)

It’s December! Finally time to get really festive. 

At Stockeld, we love winter activities for feeling cosy. You could take the kids ice skating, or the whole family could head to our spectacular Christmas illuminations in the Enchanted Forest.  

If you’re going for a real Christmas tree, now’s the perfect time to head to our Christmas tree shop to pick yours. Combine with one of our festive activities for that warm, fuzzy feeling inside.

Extra festive activity:  start watching your favourite Christmas films!

Week 5 - 2 / 3 Weeks Before Christmas

Finish your present shopping, wrap everything and pop it under the tree! Finalise your festive food order, then fill the house with the scent of freshly baked treats - from Christmas tree cookies to a gingerbread house bake-off, the whole family can enjoy.

Week 6 - 1 / 2 Weeks Before

It’s time to see Santa! Stockeld has a magical North Pole village where you can meet the big man himself. You’ll see the elves, play seasonal games and meet Mrs Claus before heading into Santa’s cosy cabin for a photo and an early gift. 

Week 7 - It’s Christmas!

Time to soak up the laughter, the special memories and the moments of calm - and eat as much cheese/chocolate/mince pies that you can handle. You did it!

Your Christmas Magic Starts with Stockeld


Whether you start in early November or you just do tasks where you can, a little planning goes a long way. Stockeld is here to make preparing for Christmas that little bit more magical with fun events - get ahead of the curve and book your tickets today.

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