A Christmas wreath with red berries and a velvet bow

The Cooks Room
Christmas Countdown

Getting ready for Christmas without the Christmas panic

Start with Before December

Christmas is a time for good food, great company and special memories, and a little preparation can make all the difference. This countdown takes you through it a step at a time, with practical tips, make-ahead ideas and plenty of reassurance along the way.

You don't need to read all of it. Start with the part that matches the time you actually have, and leave the rest until you need it.

Less stress. More Christmas.

Not sure where to begin?

Start here

There's plenty of time yet. A few bookings and decisions now, then leave Christmas alone for a while.

Before December

Hosting at the last minute? Start here instead .

Getting Ready, One Step at a Time

Seven steps from early planning to Christmas Day itself.

Before December

A little preparation goes a long way.

4 Weeks to Go

Now’s the time to start getting organised.

3 Weeks to Go

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas.

2 Weeks to Go

Get things out. Get things ready. Make Ahead.

1 Week to Go

A few final things, then time to breathe.

Christmas Eve

Set the table. Chill the drinks. Finish what can sensibly be done today. Make a few notes for tomorrow — and then stop.

Christmas Day

Enjoy your day. The table is set, the house is festive and your guests are arriving.

A bit more help

The questions that come up most, answered properly.

Hosting at short notice

Just agreed to host and there’s no time for a four-week countdown? Start Here.

How much food do I need?

Turkey, ham, prawns, sides and drinks, per person.

Looking after everyone

Allergies, vegetarians, children and anyone not drinking.

A cracker Christmas

Make bought bon bons feel like yours, and double as place cards.

Christmas recipes

Ann's Christmas cooking, sorted by the job it does on the day. See them all .

The centrepiece

Perfect Roast Turkey 101

How to Glaze a Christmas Ham

Flash Roasted Prawns with Chilli & Coriander

Make it ahead

Freeze Ahead Crispy Roast Potatoes

Christmas Pudding Semifreddo with Cherry Compote

Christmas Chocolate Ripple Log

Baking and gifts

Traditional Rich Christmas Cake

Shortbread

Panforte

Nibbles and drinks

Antipasto Crostini

Classic Eggnog

Beetroot-cured Salmon with Celery & Fennel Salad

Christmas ideas, straight to your inbox

Recipes and seasonal help from The Cooks Room. Unsubscribe whenever you like.

Christmas isn't a performance.
It's a day to be together.

Merry Christmas
from The Cooks Room