What is Twixmas?

twixmas
Your guide to TwixmasDwayne Barker / 500px - Getty Images

Twixmas is the unofficial term for the relaxed period between Christmas and New Year. Once the stress of Christmas Day is over, Twixmas comes along to help recharge our batteries before we celebrate the start of another year.


Marked from 27th until 30th December, here is everything you need to know about Twixmas, including how to spend it.

What is Twixmas?

Twixmas is the term used to describe the days between Christmas and New Year (27th-30th December) when (work and family commitments depending) you can take some much-needed downtime. For many of us, it's time to relax and spend our days doing nothing.

Why is it called Twixmas?

Twixmas originates from the old English word 'betwixt' which simply means 'between'. While the word is not dictionary official, it has been adopted in the UK and has gained popularity in recent years.

How can I spend Twixmas?

For some, Twixmas is all about curling up under a blanket in cosy PJs with a festive film, or that buzzed-about boxset or book. For others, it's a chance to get some air, enjoy countryside walks or indulge in a little craft or DIY activities. Many families use it as a chance to meet up or even continue the festivities.

It's also the perfect time to gather your thoughts ahead of 2025 and write down your new goals.

drinks trolley with stack of christmas presents
Jon Day/House Beautiful

Things to do during Twixmas:

• Cook up something comforting. Twixmas is a great time to use up leftovers. This easy Christmas tray bake recipe using potato, Brussels sprouts and shredded ham with chestnuts, is a good place to start. You could also whip up something sweet: Why not try one of our favourite German Christmas recipes, such as stollen or homemade mulled wine?

• Get cosy and catch up on those Christmas TV specials you missed – or watch Gavin and Stacey one more time! Or, if you want to watch more dramas or films on demand, sign up for Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, Apple TV+, Netflix or a NOW TV pass. Twixmas is also the perfect time to binge-watch your favourite Christmas films, such as Home Alone, Elf and The Holiday.

cosy christmas bedroom with stocking and presents
Mark Scott

• Shop the post-Christmas sales from the comfort of your sofa. Pick up a bargain for the house without having to battle the crowds. Big ticket buys, such as mattresses, are a wise investment when they're discounted at this time of year.

• Indulge in a spot of pampering: light some candles, run a bath and kick back with a face mask.

• Read one of this year's most talked about books. Or get lost in the bestselling tome from the year you were born.

• Rearrange your bedroom: transform your bedroom space into a tranquil, stylish space to help you unwind at the end of a long day.

Declutter your home and tidy up all of those new presents. Whether it's that jumbled cupboard under the stairs or the kids' bedroom, use Twixmas to get your clean on.

a christmas staircase with garland
David Cleveland

• Decorate! With Christmas Day now behind us, why not give your home a lick of paint? If you're in the mood for a challenge, try panelling a wall for a scene-stealing feature.

• Go offline. It's a great way to recharge your mind before 2025 begins.

• Slip on your wellies and head out for a countryside walk. Take a thermos of coffee to keep you warm as you wander.

• Get to know your favourite celebrities by reading our My Happy Home interview series.

• Have a 'Sunday reset' before 2025 begins. Carve out time to complete various household jobs, such as laundry, cleaning, food prep, packing work bags, and organising.

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