Your holiday countdown checklist
Use this holiday countdown checklist to make sure you’re prepared for the holidays. By starting some tasks and planning in advance, you’ll be less rushed later on, and you’ll have more time to enjoy the celebrations. Plus, planning in advance can help you decide where you want to focus your energy.
Start early, in November (4-6 weeks in advance)
-
Make your gift list now to avoid panic shopping. Beside each person, designate a budget and note gift ideas.
-
Plan your shopping. Save time by using online retailers and catalogues. Or clip items from magazines or newspapers so you’re more efficient when you hit the shops.
-
Create a card list, including addresses — or better yet, print out mailing labels to speed up card-writing.
-
Post overseas cards and small gifts traveling by airmail four weeks in advance.
-
Look through
recipes
and choose family favourites, sure-fire hits and quick stand-bys. Plan menus for dinners, cocktail parties, kids’ parties, casual gatherings. Can any recipes be doubled up?
-
Throw together a lasagna or casserole that can be frozen for a quick meal or to serve unexpected company.
-
Bake freezable cookies and squares, and mix up logs of dough to freeze for last-minute baking.
-
Check that decorations and lights are in good condition and purchase new ones if necessary.
Looking good! (3 weeks before)
-
Shop for seasonal cards — and remember to buy special cards for family and friends who have birthdays or anniversaries at this time of year.
-
Shop for items you can put together for easy, effortless drop-ins: frozen hors d’oeuvres, cheese and crackers, spreads and dips, apple cider. Replenish as supplies dwindle.
-
Start gift shopping.
-
Purchase or make a few small items to have on hand as host gifts or last-minute gifts.
-
Check that table-top items are ready for guests and family: linens, centerpiece, candles, silver ware and stem ware. This is a good time to stock up on extra candles.
In good shape (2 weeks before)
-
Pick up gift wrap, tags, and tape. Set up an area in your home for wrapping presents, preparing parcels for mailing, and writing cards.
-
Set aside an evening to write cards and wrap presents.
-
Post cards and small gifts traveling by airmail to the U.S. or Canada.
-
Place your order for meat, cake or other special order food items.
-
Assemble CDs and playlists of your favourite holiday and entertaining music.
-
Purchase film or keep your digital camera charged and ready to go.
A few days to go…
-
Wrap gifts and label, so they’re ready to go when you are.
-
Shop for holiday dinner and special meals.
-
Begin any food preparations that can be done in advance of your family celebration.
-
Relax, enjoy the festivities, and be glad that you started early!