Your checklist
8.2 weeks to go. Plenty of time if you start now.
Now to mid November
Late November
Early December
Mid December
Christmas week
Christmas Eve
Why a Christmas checklist helps
Christmas stress usually comes from everything landing in the same fortnight. A Christmas checklist spreads the jobs across the weeks, so each one feels small. Tick items off above as you go; your progress is saved in this browser, so you can come back any time.
How to use this checklist
- Check it on Mondays. Pick that week's items and put them in your calendar. See Mondays until Christmas for a Monday-by-Monday plan.
- Share the jobs. Give each family member a section.
- Add your own. Use the budget planner for gifts, and note your carrier's dates from the shipping deadlines.
- Do not aim for perfect. If a job slips, skip it. Christmas still comes.
The five things not to leave late
- Travel and time off: prices rise and leave fills up.
- Personalised or overseas gifts: they take weeks.
- The main meal order: butchers and supermarkets close orders mid-December.
- Posting parcels: deadlines are firm.
- Wrapping supplies: they sell out in the last week.
Count the time you have left with weeks until Christmas.
A checklist for hosting Christmas
- Confirm numbers and any dietary needs a week ahead.
- Count chairs, plates and glasses; borrow what you are short of.
- Plan the cooking timeline backwards from when you want to eat.
- Clear fridge space the day before the big food shop.
- Delegate: a guest brings dessert, another brings drinks.
- Leave one hour free on the day for things that go wrong.
Find menu ideas in Christmas recipes.
If you are starting late
Only a week or two to go? Focus on four things: food, gifts for the closest people, a tidy space to celebrate in, and rest. Use gift cards or experiences for everyone else, order food for collection, and skip anything that does not make the day better.
Questions people ask
Quick answers about this countdown.
When should I start planning for Christmas?
Six to eight weeks ahead is comfortable. Big trips and overseas gifts need longer.
Is my checklist saved?
Yes, in this browser on this device.
What should I do the week before Christmas?
Buy fresh food, wrap remaining gifts, confirm plans with guests, and prepare what you can for the meal.
Keep exploring
More countdowns, tools and Christmas reading on Christmas Days Left.