The Ultimate Guide to Twixmas: Making the Most of The Days Between Christmas and New Year

Twixmas is that peculiar little period between the mad rush of Christmas Day and the sparkle of New Year’s Eve.

It’s a brief limbo where the days blur and you wonder if it’s acceptable to eat breakfast after 1pm.

In the UK this period of time between Christmas and New Year is charmingly referred to as Twixmas.

The name combines the old English word “betwixt” (“between”) with Christmas, perfectly capturing this unique interval.

So, whether you’re in the UK, the US, or somewhere else entirely, here’s how to make the most of this delightful downtime.

Embrace the Art of Nothing

Do you remember when you were little and grown-ups would ask what you were doing, and you’d reply “nothing” with a slight eye roll?

Well, Twixmas is your official permission slip to do exactly that. Curl up in your new Christmas socks, grab that book you’ve been meaning to read since February and claim your spot on the sofa.

Any form of work and those pesky emails can wait.

Culture Fix

Twixmas is the perfect time to appreciate some culture without the usual crowds.

Many theatres run special shows – from classic ballet performances of Cinderella to family-friendly pantomimes.

Independent cinemas often screen seasonal classics or curate special film seasons during this period – perfect for discovering something new or revisiting an old favourite.

Museums and galleries tend to be blissfully quiet during Twixmas, giving you space to actually read the plaques without someone breathing down your neck.

Just remember to check holiday opening times – there is nothing worse than turning up to find everything’s closed.

If you’re a film enthusiast, the cinema is calling – and with good reason. I can’t wait for Nosferatu, the highly anticipated reimagining of the iconic horror classic. It is out on the 25th in the USA and hits UK cinemas on New Year’s Day.

During Twixmas, however, there are plenty of other movies to check out such as Conclave, Wicked or Red One.

Whether it’s art, history, or cinema, Twixmas is your chance to savour something inspiring.

Cosy Indoor Activities

Create your own home cinema experience – gather friends for a themed movie marathon.

Maybe all the adaptations of a particular story, or films set in winter. Add some of those leftover Christmas snacks, and you’ve got yourself a perfect Twixmas evening.

Did you get any creative gifts for Christmas? Those watercolours from your aunt or that fancy cookbook from your sister?

Now’s the time to actually use them, before they join last year’s unused presents in the back of the cupboard.

Dive Into Leftover Magic

Your fridge is likely bursting with Christmas leftovers, so why not get creative?

From turkey and cranberry sandwiches to bubble and squeak, Twixmas is a culinary playground.

Channel your inner chef and whip up something comforting – perhaps a hearty soup or an indulgent dessert using the remnants of the festive feast.

You get bonus points if you invent a new family tradition in the process.

Indulge in a Bit of TV Therapy

Let’s be honest: there’s no better time for a proper binge-watch. Curl up with a cosy blanket and dive into that show everyone’s been raving about (The Penguin anyone?).

Or revisit classic festive films like It’s a Wonderful Life and The Holiday.

It’s also the perfect opportunity to catch up on those Christmas specials you missed in the pre-holiday chaos.

Declutter and Reset

With a new year just around the corner, Twixmas is ideal for a mini reset.

Tackle that cluttered drawer or reorganise your wardrobe – it’s strangely therapeutic.

You don’t have to go full Marie Kondo, but a little tidying can make your space (and your mind) feel clearer and more ready for 2025.

Rekindle Connections

Twixmas provides a quieter moment to catch up with friends or family you might have missed during the Christmas rush.

Whether it’s an actual meet-up or a heartfelt video call, it’s the thought that counts.

Share stories, play a virtual game, or even plan your next gathering together.

Treat Yourself to a Book

There’s something about Twixmas that begs for a good read. Whether it’s a bestselling thriller, an inspiring memoir, or even a cookbook you’ve been meaning to try, now is the time to indulge.

Pair it with a hot drink and a comfy chair, and you’ve got the recipe for ultimate relaxation.

Fresh Air and Winter Walks

After days of indoor festivities, sometimes you need to remember what actual daylight looks like.

Bundle up in your new Christmas jumper and take a winter walk. The streets are usually quieter, perfect for admiring any remaining Christmas lights without dodging through crowds.

Plus, walking helps burn off all that cheese and mulled wine.

Create Your Own Traditions

Maybe this is the year you start your own Twixmas tradition – watching all the James Bond films in reverse order, having breakfast foods for every meal, or wearing your paper crown from Christmas dinner while doing mundane tasks. The sillier, the better!

Digital Detox (Even Just a Bit)

Consider taking a break from the endless scroll of social media. Maybe not the whole of Twixmas (let’s be realistic here), but even a few hours can feel refreshing.

Read a paperback book, try out a new board game, or simply stare out the window and daydream.

Embracing the Twixmas Magic

Some people find this period boring, but I have always loved it. You can give yourself permission to switch off – and where else during the year can you do that?

I have some books lined up to read: The Silkworm by Robert Galbraith (I’ve read a few of these but not in the right order), Nine Lives by Peter Swanson, Death of a Bookseller by Alice Slater, and The Outsider by Stephen King.

I’ve also been saving some TV shows to binge-watch: Showtrial Season 2 and Strike: The Ink Black Heart (both on BBC), Ripley on Netflix, and I plan to start Dexter: Original Sin and Silo. On my movie list are Heretic and Salem’s Lot.

Beyond that, I plan to listen to music, bake some American-style cookies, play chess and games with my family, and, of course, write.

Remember, there’s no wrong way to do Twixmas – except forgetting to put the bins out because you’ve lost track of the days. We’ve all been there.

Twixmas isn’t about productivity or ticking boxes; it’s about embracing the pause.

So, whether you spend it in pyjamas watching TV, finally learning how to use that air fryer you got for Christmas, or creating increasingly bizarre sandwiches from leftovers, Twixmas is that rare gift of unstructured time.

Make the most of it – or don’t. That’s the beauty of it.