15 Things to Do Before the Holiday Season Starts
Holiday To do List
I absolutely love the holiday season and look forward to it all year long!
But the demands of work and running a household really tires me out, especially as the season approaches.
With so many things to do, I sometimes feel so overwhelmed, not knowing where to start or what to prioritize.
In the past few years, I’ve learned that starting early is my best approach.
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Having a Holiday To Do Checklist, planning things out, and giving myself plenty of time to organize everything makes a huge difference.
This way, I am able to avoid last-minute stress, skip the chaos, and enter the holiday season with a calm and a happy mind.
So here’s my Must Holiday To Do List of what I like to get done ahead of time to make the season as smooth as possible!
The holiday season can be one of the best times of the year, but it can also get pretty busy and overwhelming.
From family gatherings to decorating, shopping, and meal planning, there’s a lot to do.
But you can avoid this holiday stress by planning ahead.
“Christmas waves a magic wand over this world, and behold, everything is softer and more beautiful.” – Norman Vincent Peale
15 Essential Things For Your Holiday To Do List
Here are 15 simple, beginner-friendly steps to help you start your holiday season with the right mindset !
1. Set a Holiday Budget
The holidays can be expensive, especially with gifts, food, decorations, and travel.
Take time to figure out how much you’re comfortable spending for the season.
Break down your budget into categories like gifts, meals, decorations, and activities.
For example, if you want to buy gifts for ten people, decide on an average amount you’re willing to spend on each.
Believe me.. having a budget can prevent you from overspending, which will make January much easier on your wallet!
2. Make a Gift List Early
Avoid the last-minute shopping rush by creating a gift list well in advance.
Start by listing the people you want to buy for, and think about what they might like.
For instance, your mom may love a cozy blanket, while your younger sibling might appreciate a new book.
Having a list also helps you keep track of what you’ve bought and what’s left, so you’re not running around at the last minute.
3. Shop for Gifts Before the Crowds
Once you’ve made your list, consider shopping early.
Many stores and online shops offer pre-holiday sales, so you might even find some good discounts.
Shopping early also means you can skip the crowded malls and long lines in December.
It’s a win-win!
“Christmas is not as much about opening our presents as opening our hearts.” – Janice Maeditere
4. Declutter Your Home
Before you start decorating, it’s helpful to declutter.
This could mean cleaning out your closet, organizing your kitchen, or just tidying up common areas.
Think of it as making room for holiday cheer!
For example, clearing out your entryway or living room will make it easier to set up decorations without feeling cluttered.
5. Plan Holiday Meals and Snacks
Holiday gatherings usually include special meals and treats, so it’s smart to plan these out early.
Decide on what you’ll cook or bake and list the ingredients.
You can also start buying non-perishable items like canned goods or baking supplies.
This way, you won’t have to face empty store shelves when everyone else is shopping, too.
For example, stocking up on flour and sugar in advance can make holiday baking much smoother.
6. Check and Organize Decorations
Take a look at your decorations from last year to see what’s in good shape and what might need replacing.
Maybe you have enough ornaments, but your lights aren’t working.
Or maybe you’d like to add some new candles for a cozy touch.
By organizing decorations now, you’ll be ready to start decorating right when the season begins.
READ ALSO: 25 Cute and Easy DIY Christmas Ornaments to Make at Home
7. Choose Outfits for Holiday Events
Holiday gatherings can mean dinners, parties, and family photos.
To avoid last-minute outfit stress, choose what you’re going to wear now.
This could mean dusting off your fancy clothes, or even buying something new if you need to.
Lay out your favorite holiday sweater, dress, or any accessories so you’re ready to go.
READ ALSO: 15 Easy Christmas Outfit Ideas: From Casual to Glam in No Time
8. Book Self-Care Appointments
Holiday self-care isn’t just about bubble baths!
It can also mean booking any grooming appointments you need, like a haircut or a manicure.
If you want to look polished in family photos or simply feel good, try to schedule these appointments early.
Salons and spas can get very busy during the holidays, so planning ahead helps ensure you get the time slot you prefer.
9. Prepare Holiday Cards Early
If you’re planning to send holiday cards, start early!
Create a list of recipients and gather addresses so you’re ready to go.
Personalizing your cards, even with a short note, can add a special touch.
You can even order custom photo cards or write a holiday letter to make it extra unique.
Mailing early will also help your cards arrive on time.
READ ALSO: Easy Prompts to Write a Heartfelt letter to your Mom
10. Plan a Family Holiday Calendar
The holiday season often includes parties, school plays, travel, and other events.
A family calendar can be a lifesaver!
Write down any scheduled gatherings, school breaks, or events in one place where everyone can see it.
This helps avoid conflicts and allows your family to stay on the same page.
You can even add reminders for holiday tasks like gift wrapping or baking.
“The best of all gifts around any Christmas tree: the presence of a happy family all wrapped up in each other.” – Burton Hillis
11. Book Holiday Travel
If you’re traveling for the holidays, booking flights or accommodations early can save you both money and stress.
Travel prices usually go up closer to the holidays, and options get limited, so planning ahead gives you more choices.
Whether it’s a family trip or visiting relatives, booking now will let you relax as the season gets closer.
12. Make a Holiday Cleaning Schedule
A clean, tidy home can make the holidays more enjoyable.
Instead of cleaning all at once, create a simple schedule to handle a bit each day.
For example, on one day, you could focus on cleaning the living room, and another day, you could deep-clean the kitchen.
This way, your house is guest-ready without a big cleaning rush.
13. Set Up a Wrapping Station
To keep things organized and efficient, designate a small area in your home as your “wrapping station.”
Gather your gift wrap, tape, scissors, bows, and gift tags in one place.
This will save time when wrapping gifts and help you avoid the chaos of searching for supplies each time.
14. Plan for Acts of Kindness
The holiday season is a great time to give back.
Whether it’s donating toys, helping at a food drive, or simply writing holiday cards for seniors in nursing homes, there are many ways to spread kindness.
For example, you could bake cookies for a neighbor, or donate to a cause your family cares about.
Giving back can make the holiday season feel even more special.
15. Take a Moment to Reflect
“Christmas is a season not only of rejoicing but of reflection.” – Winston Churchill
Before the hustle of the holidays fully kicks in, take a little time to look back at the past year.
Think about what went well and any lessons learned.
Consider setting simple goals or intentions to help you stay mindful during the busy season.
This could be as simple as planning to enjoy more time with family or to focus on what you’re grateful for.
READ ALSO: Journaling for Self-Improvement: The Ultimate Starter Guide with 30 Prompts
By following this holiday to Do List, you can start your holiday season feeling more organized and prepared.
Planning ahead lets you enjoy the joyful parts of the holidays without getting overwhelmed.
Whether it’s making time for family, giving back, or simply soaking up the seasonal magic, a little preparation goes a long way in making your holidays truly special.
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