How to cope with binge eating disorder during the Christmas period.

Hey readers,

Coping with binge eating disorder (BED) at Christmas starts with recognising that the season is genuinely harder when food, alcohol, and social pressure are everywhere, and then building a realistic, compassionate plan around your needs rather than chasing perfection.

With support, flexible structure, and non‑food coping tools, it is possible to enjoy parts of the holidays while still protecting your recovery.

Understanding holiday triggers.

Christmas can intensify binge urges because there is more rich food, disrupted routines, family tension, and cultural pressure to “indulge now, fix it in January.”

 People with BED often feel out of control around food and then experience shame afterwards, which can be worsened by comments about weight or eating from relatives.

Knowing your own triggers helps you plan ahead. 
Common ones include skipping meals earlier in the day, feeling judged at the table, being overtired, drinking alcohol, or being left alone near a buffet or leftovers.

 Writing these down before the holidays can make them feel more manageable and less mysterious.

Creating a flexible food plan.

Having a gentle structure around food is protective, but rigid “diet rules” usually backfire and increase binge risk.

 Professionals recommend continuing regular, balanced meals and snacks through December rather than “saving up” calories for parties or Christmas dinner.

A holiday eating plan can include: aiming for three meals and planned snacks daily, checking in with hunger and fullness, and deciding in advance which festive foods you most want to enjoy.

It may help to make one plate away from the buffet, sit down to eat without screens, and step away once you have finished instead of grazing.

 Setting boundaries with people and events.

Social situations can be triggering, especially if others comment on bodies, diets, or how “naughty” certain foods are.

It is reasonable to protect yourself with boundaries, such as changing the subject, leaving the table briefly, or planning shorter visits.

Before events, consider which invitations genuinely matter to you and which you can decline without guilt.

 For gatherings you do attend, you might: arrive with a trusted person, agree on a signal to take a break together, or plan to leave by a certain time so you are not overwhelmed or exhausted.

Building a support team.

You do not have to face Christmas with BED alone, and support significantly improves recovery.

 Let one or two safe people know what helps and what doesn’t, such as avoiding “food policing” and offering distraction or a quick walk if you start to feel triggered.

If you are in treatment, ask your therapist, GP, or dietitian for a specific holiday coping plan, including extra check‑ins if possible.

 In the UK, charities such as Beat offer helplines, online groups, and webchat for people struggling with eating disorders over Christmas, which can be a lifeline if services are closed.

Using non‑food coping tools.

Bingeing is often a way to cope with emotional pain, boredom, or stress, so it helps to have other tools ready before the holidays begin.

 Evidence‑based approaches for BED, like cognitive behavioural therapy, often emphasise identifying difficult thoughts and feelings and responding with coping skills instead of using food.

You might make a written list of alternatives for when urges spike: stepping outside for fresh air, texting a friend, journaling for ten minutes, using a grounding or breathing exercise, or engaging in a low‑pressure hobby.

 Keeping this list on your phone or in your bag makes it easier to access in the moment, when thinking clearly can be hard.

Managing guilt and self‑talk.

Many people with BED struggle with all‑or‑nothing thinking, such as deciding the day is “ruined” after eating more than planned, which can fuel further binges.

 Learning to respond with self‑compassion and curiosity rather than punishment is linked to better outcomes in recovery.

If a binge or lapse happens, try to see it as data, not failure: 

What was happening before? 

What feelings or comments showed up?

 What might help next time?

 The next step is to return to regular meals as soon as you can, rather than restricting or skipping food to “make up” for it, which typically increases the risk of another binge.

Looking after your whole self.

Christmas does not have to revolve entirely around food, even though it can feel that way.

 Planning traditions that are not food‑centred, such as walks with friends, games, crafts, films, music, or volunteering, can reduce pressure and remind you that the season is about connection and meaning too.

Taking care of basics such as sleep, movement you enjoy, time outside, and moments of rest also supports your mood and appetite regulation, which can indirectly reduce binge urges.

 If you notice your mental health worsening or thoughts of harming yourself, contact urgent services or a crisis helpline in your area, as BED is a serious condition that deserves prompt, compassionate care.

Cheers for reading X 

Review of Luminate at Coombe Abbey Park, Coventry.

Hey readers,

Luminate at Coombe Abbey is a beautifully staged winter light trail that turns one of Coventry’s best‑loved green spaces into a genuinely atmospheric after‑dark experience, powerful on mood, music, and family‑friendly interactive moments.

It is not the cheapest festive night out, and recent years have drawn some criticism for value and changes to the route, but if you time it right and know what to expect, it can still feel like a magical seasonal tradition rather than a one‑and‑done visit.

Setting and first impressions. 

The minute you arrive at Coombe Abbey after dark, the setting does most of the heavy lifting: the historic hotel, the long driveway, and the lakeside parkland all lend themselves perfectly to twinkly lights and theatrical lighting.

 Walking in feels more like entering an outdoor theatre set than a standard park event, with coloured uplighting in the trees, music drifting across the water, and clear signage and stewards helping to funnel people towards the trail start.

Once on the route, the trail is designed as a continuous one‑way loop of roughly a mile, taking around 60–90 minutes at a relaxed pace, which feels like a sweet spot: long enough to justify the ticket price, but not so long that younger kids melt down or adults get bored.

 The sound design is a significant part of the first impression as well, featuring gentle, cinematic soundscapes and festive tracks that build atmosphere without drowning out conversation.  

 Trail design and light installations. 

Luminate Coombe leans into immersive, sensory lighting rather than just big things to photograph, and when it works, it really works.

 Expect tunnels of light, colour‑changing trees, water reflections, and sections where the path seems to glow beneath your feet, all sequenced to music so you feel like you are walking through a story rather than a list of separate displays.

There are also interactive elements, from talking trees to light‑up features kids can trigger, which are a clever way of keeping families engaged as you move along the loop.

 That said, regulars have noticed that some fan‑favourite sections, like fields of lights and certain musical play installations, have disappeared or changed in recent years, which can make the experience feel slightly pared back if you are returning and expecting identical wow moments.

 Atmosphere, crowds and photo potential.

 

Atmosphere is where Luminate Coombe usually earns its praise: the combination of woodland, water, and historic architecture gives the whole walk a dreamy, slightly storybook feel.

There are plenty of “Instagrammable” moments, glowing tunnels, reflections on the lake, and backdrops with the Abbey in the distance, so content creators and families who love photos will come away with a full camera roll.

Crowd management is generally solid thanks to timed entry slots, but peak December weekends and early evening family slots can still feel busy, which might mean slower shuffles through popular installations and trickier clean photo angles.

 If you prefer a calmer, more contemplative experience, later slots on weeknights are usually a better choice and give you more time to linger at your favourite sections without feeling rushed from behind.

Practicalities: tickets, food and facilities.

Tickets for Luminate Coombe are in line with other UK light trails: not outrageous, but definitely something you feel as a deliberate seasonal spend, especially once you add parking, food, and drinks for a family.

 Early‑bird pricing and off‑peak dates can make it more affordable, and there are sometimes small perks such as discounts at the on‑site artisan market for trail ticket‑holders, which helps sweeten the deal if you plan to browse or shop.

On the night, you can expect a mix of on‑site cafés and independent street‑food traders serving hot drinks, marshmallows to toast, and typical winter comfort food, convenient, atmospheric, and tempting, but also another cost layer to budget for.

 Facilities at Coombe Abbey Park are decent, with paid parking close to the action, accessible routes, and toilets at sensible points. However, queues can build at peak times, and it is still very much an outdoor, weather‑dependent experience.

Pros, cons and overall verdict.  

Overall, Luminate Coombe Abbey is strongest for first-timers or those new to light trails: the setting is gorgeous, the trail is thoughtfully paced, and the combination of music, lights, and interactive features usually delivers a memorable festive evening.

Repeat visitors are more likely to notice changes year‑to‑year, and some have felt recent editions offered fewer standout installations for similar or higher prices, which can dull the magic if you are expecting constant escalation.

If you go in seeing it as a seasonal night‑time walk with beautiful lighting, photo‑friendly moments, and optional food and drinks rather than a huge theme‑park‑level spectacle, Luminate Coombe Abbey still earns its place on the local winter calendar.

 For Coventry and Warwickshire locals, it works best as a once‑every‑couple‑of‑years treat or a special family outing, rather than an annual must‑do, but when all the elements line up, it remains one of the area’s most atmospheric festive experiences.

Cheers for reading X

The best supermarket for your Christmas shop.

 Hey readers, 

Aldi and Lidl are the best UK supermarkets for value when Christmas shopping in 2025, but premium chains like Waitrose, M&S, Tesco and Sainsbury's offer standout festive ranges and taste-winner specialities.

Shopping on a Budget: Aldi and Lidl.

If cost is your highest priority, Aldi and Lidl continue to offer excellent value for core Christmas essentials, including turkey, stuffing, vegetables, and festive trimmings. 

A September 2025 price comparison found that a typical basket of 71 items cost £122.77 at Aldi and £123.95 at Lidl, compared to £135.64 at Tesco and £136.98 at Asda. 

Discounters excel at affordable basics such as mince pies, Christmas pudding, and traditional roast ingredients.

 For shoppers who want a full festive spread without breaking the bank, these supermarkets consistently rank as the "cheapest supermarket" for Christmas 2025.

* Typical essentials like turkeys, pigs in blankets, gravy, and vegetables are all reliably affordable.

* While branded and speciality products are less common, the seasonal range includes festive chocolates, puddings, and treats.

* Combining a shop at Aldi or Lidl for basics with a small top-up trip elsewhere for niche ingredients is an increasingly popular strategy.

Supermarket Christmas Ranges: Taste, Choice, and Luxury.

Shoppers looking for gourmet products, speciality ranges or the latest festive innovations may find their best Christmas supermarket in the mid-tier and premium retailers: Waitrose, M&S, Tesco, Sainsbury’s and Morrisons.

Waitrose.

Waitrose was the overall winner in several 2025 Christmas taste tests, with 11 of its products ranking in the top two across all major categories.

 Standout items include luxury starters, roasts, and desserts, such as the No.1 range mince pies and Christmas puddings, as well as creative vegan mains. 

Waitrose also offers a wide range of organic turkeys and showstopping desserts.

* Excellent for premium ingredients and showpiece festive meals.

* Impressive vegan and vegetarian selections.

* Christmas slots for collection and delivery fill up quickly.

M&S.

Marks & Spencer is famed for its imaginative party food, giftable boxes, and dessert centrepieces. In 2025, shoppers can enjoy highlights like the Colin the Caterpillar Christmas cake, tear-and-share brie wreath, build-your-own charcuterie platters, and extensive seafood options. 

M&S’s bakery and iced treats consistently do well in taste tests and seasonal reviews.

* Celebration foods and festive grazing platters.

* Great for picking up party snacks and show-stopping desserts.

* Collection-only slots run from December 22-24.

 Tesco.

Tesco’s Clubcard deals make it competitive for families wanting variety and premium brands.

 

Tesco’s seasonal range includes wild lobster thermidor, red velvet yule logs, and creative vegan dishes. 

Its Christmas pop-up markets add to the in-store festive atmosphere.

* Tesco Finest, Plant Chef, and affordable multipacks.

* Reliable online slots and in-store deals.

* Good balance between price, convenience, and festive innovation.

Sainsbury's.

Sainsbury’s Christmas twist on sticky toffee pudding has gained attention in 2025, alongside its extensive starter and vegan options, including organic and meat-free turkey choice. 

Sainsbury's food slots open early, and its starters and speciality desserts rate well in reviews.

* Extensive main and side dish range.

* Creative dessert offerings.

* Early booking advised for collection/delivery.

 Morrisons.

Morrisons' order-online service is popular for buffet-style Christmas snacks and festive party food, including gluten-free and vegetarian selections.

* Party plates, grazing boards, vegan and veggie-friendly options.

* Online or in-store ordering for collection.

 Tips for Smarter Christmas Shopping.

To make the most of your Christmas supermarket trip in 2025, consider these strategies:

* Shop staples at discounters like Aldi or Lidl, then top up with premium items from Tesco, Waitrose, or M&S.

* Use multi-buy promotions on festive treats and chocolates at all supermarkets; Clubcard and loyalty schemes often unlock additional savings.

* Compare prices online before shopping, especially for premium brands, alternative roasts, or large sharing platters.

* Book collection/delivery slots early popular stores' dates fill quickly each year.

* Look out for seasonal events like Tesco’s Christmas pop-up markets for festive activities while you shop.

  The Best UK Supermarket for Christmas Shopping

For families focused on low-cost essentials, Aldi and Lidl are the best for Christmas shopping in the UK in 2025.

 If taste, range, and excitement are your priorities or if you’re after showstoppers for foodie gatherings Waitrose and M&S are the strongest choices, with Tesco and Sainsbury’s offering massive variety and flexibility. 

Price gaps remain notable for staple items, while premium shops deliver standout luxuries for festive occasions.

Whatever your shopping style, plan early, mix and match to your budget and needs, and enjoy a delicious, stress-free run-up to Christmas.

Cheers for reading X 

What is micro-gifting?

 Hey readers, 

Micro-gifting is the practice of giving small, thoughtful presents or tokens of appreciation with the intention of fostering connection, boosting morale, or simply letting someone know you’re thinking of them. 

This concept stands apart from traditional gifting, which is often associated with major holidays or significant life events, by focusing on everyday moments, spontaneity, and the emotional resonance of small gestures.

Over the past few years, micro-gifting has surged in popularity, in part due to shifts in lifestyle brought about by global events, digital communication, and changing social expectations.

The Essence of Micro-Gifting.

At its core, micro-gifting is about the impact a small gift can have rather than its monetary value. It may be as simple as sending a friend a cup of coffee, a small treat, a digital gift card, or a thoughtful note.

Unlike conventional gift-giving, which often involves careful planning and significant expense, micro-gifting celebrates the idea that a modest act of kindness can create meaningful emotional bonds.

This trend resonates in a world where distance, busy schedules, or financial constraints often make grand gestures unfeasible. 

Micro-gifting fills the gap by emphasising frequency and sincerity over opulence.

A spontaneous, inexpensive present, perhaps a quirky local snack, a favourite pastry, or a personalised message, helps maintain relationships and foster happiness without the pressure of perfection.

Why Micro-Gifting Matters.

Micro-gifting is rooted in the recognition that everyday kindness and gestures matter.

 It plays an essential role in uplifting others during challenging times, bridging distances, or simply brightening someone's ordinary day. 

Especially in a post-pandemic world where physical and emotional separations are more common, small gifts act as emotional lifelines, preserving friendships and fostering a sense of community.

Unlike lavish gifts, which can sometimes feel transactional or create expectations of reciprocation, micro gifts are given without strings attached. 

This helps nurture genuine connections, showing others that they’re valued regardless of circumstances or calendar dates.

The Psychology Behind Micro-Gifting.

Receiving a small, unexpected token taps into the human desire for belonging and recognition. Even the most trivial presents, a favourite snack, a single flower, a custom playlist, can spark joy and gratitude.

 The low cost makes these gifts accessible to people of all backgrounds, allowing generosity to flourish regardless of one’s financial status.

Micro-gifting is underpinned by behavioural psychology concepts such as the “helper’s high,” the sense of satisfaction that comes from doing something kind for another and “reciprocity,” which encourages an ongoing cycle of goodwill. 

The key difference here is that the act itself, not the price, is what’s most meaningful.

Micro-Gifting in the Digital Age.

Technology has fueled the expansion of micro-gifting through apps, e-gift cards, and social platforms designed for quick, easy sharing. 

Services now allow users to send minor digital tokens instantly, from a £5 coffee voucher to an online subscription or even a personalised meme.

The rise of micro-gifting also parallels developments in social media and messaging, where quick, informal exchanges are commonplace.

 Brands and retailers have embraced the trend as well, offering micro gift sets and “just because” gift options, both for consumers and in corporate settings, to boost employee morale or customer loyalty.

Micro-Gifting vs. Micro-Donations.

While micro-gifting centres on small gifts intended for personal connections, a related concept, micro-donations, involves making tiny charitable contributions.

Both are united by the belief that small acts, when multiplied, can create a significant positive impact.

 Microdonations enable donors from any economic background to support causes they care about, much like how micro-gifting empowers people to nurture personal relationships regardless of means.

Micro-Gifting in Influencer and Marketing Spaces.

Micro-gifting isn’t just personal, it’s also strategic in business.

 Brands looking to work with micro-influencers often deploy micro-gifting, sending products or tokens as a gesture to foster engagement and authentic promotion.

 This lowers marketing costs while achieving word-of-mouth outreach through small, relationship-building acts rather than transactions.

Influencers, in turn, may receive niche-focused products or exclusive experiences, helping brands reach targeted audiences while maintaining authenticity. 

These gifts are usually low in value but high in social currency, reinforcing the idea that thoughtful, well-timed gestures can be more influential than expensive campaigns.

Everyday Applications of Micro-Gifting.

Micro-gifting works best when it feels authentic and tailored. Some real-life examples include:

*  Sending a spontaneous coffee or food delivery to a friend having a tough day.

* Leaving a little treat for a coworker at their desk to show appreciation.

* Sending digital “pick-me-ups” like funny memes, playlists, or e-cards.

* Mailing a handwritten note, packet of seeds, or sachet of tea.

The recipient’s joy lies more in the thoughtfulness and timing than in the monetary value. Over time, these small acts can transform relationships, workplaces, and communities.

 Micro-Gifting for Mental Health and Well-being.

There is a growing acknowledgement that even the smallest gestures can act as powerful tools for enhancing wellbeing. 

Micro-gifting not only uplifts the recipient but also delivers boosts of happiness and purpose to the giver.

 In the long term, cultivating a culture of micro-gifting can promote emotional resilience and create a more supportive social environment, especially in times of isolation or uncertainty.

Challenges and Considerations.

Although micro-gifting is a low-cost, low-pressure practice, it still demands sincerity and mindfulness. 

Repetitive or impersonal micro-gifts risk becoming routine or even intrusive if not attuned to the recipient’s preferences. 

The objective is always quality and thought, not quantity.

Moreover, digital platforms must handle gifting responsibly to avoid fostering obligatory exchanges or overwhelming notifications. 

Boundaries and consent are as important in micro-gifting as in more traditional forms of giving.

Micro-gifting has emerged as a powerful counterbalance to the grandiosity and hyper-commercialisation of traditional gifting. 

Whether practised privately among friends, as part of digital communities, or in corporate culture, the humble act of giving something small just because remains a meaningful, accessible, and heartwarming expression of human connection, capable of brightening days and sustaining relationships through the simplest of kind gestures.

Cheers for reading X

what is Tesco Christmas market?

Hey readers,

Tesco Christmas Market is a festive pop-up event hosted nationwide in select Tesco stores during November and December, designed to elevate the holiday shopping experience with free samples, immersive activities, and exclusive product previews.

 These markets have become a highly anticipated part of Christmas preparations for families across the UK, promising a joyful atmosphere where shoppers can taste seasonal treats, discover new products, and find inspiration for every aspect of their celebrations.

What Is Tesco Christmas Market?

Tesco’s Christmas Market is a seasonal celebration rolled out at selected Tesco Extra and Superstore locations across the UK.

 Unlike traditional city-centre Christmas markets, which often feature independent vendors, Tesco’s version is a branded, in-store festival showcasing the best of its holiday food, drink, and gifting ranges.

 The markets are entirely free to attend and aim to spread festive cheer with food sampling, decorated stalls, interactive activities, and occasional appearances from brand ambassadors or even Santa Claus in certain locations.

 Where and When Does It Take Place?

For 2025, Tesco is running over 165 pop-up Christmas Markets, with doors open from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM Monday through Saturday, and 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM on Sundays. 

The initiative runs throughout November and December, making it easy for shoppers to mix their regular grocery shopping with a touch of festive magic.

 Major stores in cities like London, Essex, Coventry, and others have hosted events, with the Tesco website listing participating locations for easy reference.

What Can You Expect at Tesco Christmas Market?

The Tesco Christmas Market experience centres around free sampling of food and drinks from well-known brands and seasonal favourites. 

Attendees can try everything from mince pies and festive cheese boards to new platters and decadent desserts. 

Leading brands such as Costa Coffee, Chocomel, Celebrations, Nemiroff, Teapigs, and Bahlsen are regular participants, giving shoppers the chance to discover new treats and pick favourites for their own holiday tables.

Stalls are decorated to evoke a traditional Christmas market feeling, often with themed props, twinkling lights, and sometimes extras like snow machines and face painting for children.

 Staff wear Christmas clothing, and there are opportunities to take festive photos. Some stores even host Instagram competitions, giving visitors the chance to win Tesco gift cards.

Exclusive Seasonal Products and Inspiration

Tesco uses the market to launch and showcase new holiday products from its 2025 range, which features over 260 new items, including party platters, luxury ready-to-serve meats, and plant-based options. 

Notable releases include the Tesco Finest Maple & Chestnut Sliced Ham, Garlic Roast Potatoes, Salted Caramel wreath desserts, and build-your-own grazing platters.

 The event is a perfect opportunity for customers to preview these items before purchasing for their own Christmas celebrations.

Besides food, the market inspires gifting and decor, with festive displays of tableware, Secret Santa gifts, and stylish Christmas clothing from Tesco’s F&F line.

 Staff are on hand to offer cooking tips, party planning hacks, and host occasional gift-wrapping demonstrations.

 Festive Activities for Families.

While the main attraction is the food and drink, some Tesco Christmas Markets go even further to create a festive atmosphere, especially at larger stores or in partnership with local community groups. 

Activities can include:

* Live music or carol singing.

* Santa grottos for kids.

* Gift-wrapping masterclasses.

* Christmas craft activities.

* Prize draws and interactive games.

These additions are designed to make shopping more enjoyable and help families create lasting Christmas memories, all without extra cost.

 Why Visit Tesco Christmas Market?

The Tesco Christmas Market offers unique value versus outdoor city markets or shopping centres. 

It’s accessible and budget-friendly, making festive fun and indulgent flavours available to all, even those watching their spending this season.

 For busy shoppers, it’s a time-saving way to experience the magic of Christmas while grabbing everyday essentials.

* Free entry and free samples eliminate barriers, making it inclusive.

* Exclusive access to new festive products helps with meal planning.

* Competitions and entertainment add fun to the shopping routine.

* Ideas and inspiration for parties and Christmas dinner are offered in a practical, easy-to-follow format.

* Support for families and groups, with activities for children and tips for hosting larger gatherings.

How to Find a Tesco Christmas Market.

Tesco publishes a list of participating stores on its website each year. 

Shoppers are advised to check local listings, especially if they want to plan their visit around special activities or product launches. 

Many markets take place at major Tesco Extra and Superstore locations, so accessibility is good, even outside city centres.

Tesco’s Christmas Market has quickly become a beloved UK tradition for families seeking festive flavour, inspiration, and community fun all in the convenience of their local store. 

With delicious samples, creative displays, and special activities, Tesco brings the spirit of Christmas to life, helping everyone celebrate, regardless of budget or background.

Whether you’re planning a show-stopping dinner, hunting for unique gifts, or just craving some holiday cheer, Tesco Christmas Market offers something for everyone, making seasonal shopping an experience to remember.

Cheers for reading X 

Costa Coffee’s festive drinks menu for 2025

Hey readers,

Costa Coffee’s festive drinks menu for 2025 has arrived, promising comfort, joy, and a much-needed seasonal pick-me-up as the Christmas countdown begins.

For many, the launch of Costa’s Christmas beverages has become a yearly tradition as eagerly anticipated as the first appearance of Christmas lights or holiday adverts. 

This year’s lineup highlights both returning favourites and a selection of new additions, each designed to create that perfect wintry moment, whether it’s a quiet morning treat or the centrepiece of a friendly catch-up.

Festive Atmosphere in Every Cup.

Costa’s festive menu isn’t just about drinks; it’s a celebration of togetherness, tradition, and the simple pleasure of enjoying something special as the weather turns colder. 

Upon entering any Costa branch, you’re greeted with cheery seasonal decorations and the warm aroma of cinnamon, chocolate, and coffee beans. 

The limited-edition Christmas cups, adorned with joyful winter scenes and splashes of red, are part of the experience, making every sip feel like a celebration.

2025 Costa Festive Drink Lineup.

This year’s drinks menu offers both nostalgia and innovation, catering to long-term fans and newcomers alike:

* Butter Pecan Cookie Latte: The star newcomer, praised for its decadent blend of rich espresso, butter pecan syrup, and sweet cookie notes. 

It’s finished with whipped cream and crunchy cookie pieces, offering a bold nutty twist that’s warm and comforting. 

This drink is set to become a fan-favourite thanks to its unique profile and photogenic presentation.

* Gingerbread Latte: The iconic festive classic returns, delivering a harmonious taste of gingerbread syrup mingled with Costa’s signature coffee, topped with whipped cream and a tiny gingerbread biscuit. 

It’s the drink many Costa fans wait all year for: a perfect balance of spice, sweetness, and nostalgia.

* Terry’s Chocolate Orange Hot Chocolate: This collaboration remains hugely popular, featuring the irresistible combination of velvety chocolate and zesty orange flavour. 

It’s a drink that captures the essence of Christmas in every cup, echoing the classic chocolate treat so often found in Christmas stockings.

* Black Forest Hot Chocolate: A returning winter favourite, marrying dark chocolate and tart berry syrup for a dessert-like experience in drink form. 

The creamy finish and cherry sauce evoke memories of festive cakes enjoyed after holiday feasts.

* Mint Hot Chocolate: For those who prefer a refreshing kick, Costa offers this blend of classic hot chocolate with cool mint syrup, topped with cream and festive sprinkles. 

Its crisp flavour is ideal for enjoying during a brisk winter walk or as an afternoon treat.

* Caramel Nutcracker Range: These drinks, available in hot and iced versions, blend rich caramel and nutty flavours evoking comfort, indulgence, and the spirit of Christmas markets. 

You’ll find these at both full Costa stores and Express machines, which makes them more accessible.

Festive Food Pairings.

No festive drink experience is complete without a sweet or savoury treat. 

Costa’s 2025 food menu includes:

* Dubai-Style Pistachio Tiffin (launching November 6).

* Festive Spice Muffin.

* Caramel Nutcracker Cookie Sandwich.

* Pigs in Blankets Toastie.

* Turkey & Trimmings Toastie.

These items have been carefully crafted to complement the drinks menu, allowing customers to create their own festive flavour combinations for breakfast, lunch, or a mid-shop break.

 Costa’s Charitable Festive Spirit.

Beyond great taste, Costa is also giving back this Christmas. 

For every item purchased from the festive food menu, the brand donates 25p to the Costa Foundation, helping support education and community initiatives worldwide during the holiday season.

Why Costa Festive Drinks Stand Out.

Costa’s festive menu is more than a collection of seasonal beverages; it’s an invitation to relish small moments of joy during a busy season.

 With warming spices, playful toppings, and a diverse lineup, every trip to Costa becomes an event in itself.

Whether you’re seeking comfort in a Butter Pecan Cookie Latte, nostalgia in a Gingerbread Latte, or simply a sweet end to a shopping day with a slice of Dubai-Style Pistachio Tiffin, Costa’s festive offerings bring together the best flavours of winter.

 
They’re ideal for creating Instagrammable coffee moments, sharing cheerful selfies, and building new traditions with those you care about.

Costa Coffee’s festive drinks for 2025 bring warmth, indulgence, and connection to UK high streets at a time when small comforts mean the most.

 Whether you’re a die-hard Gingerbread Latte fan or ready to try the Butter Pecan Cookie Latte for the first time, you’ll find plenty to celebrate this winter season with every sip. Costa Coffee helps make your Christmas just that bit brighter.

Cheers for reading X

Why I love Christmas in the 90s!

Hey readers,

The Christmas season has always been a magical time, but ask anyone who experienced Christmas in the 90s, and they'll likely recount tales of an era that exuded a unique and unparalleled charm. 

As we fast-forward to today's festivities, it's impossible not to feel a twinge of nostalgia for the Christmas celebrations that defined the 90s. 

Let's delve into the reasons why Christmas in 90s is often regarded as superior to today's more modern celebrations.

1. Traditional High Street Shopping.

The bustling high streets adorned with twinkling lights and the familiar tunes of carollers Christmas shopping in the 90s was an experience in itself.

 High streets were alive with the spirit of Christmas, bustling with shoppers searching for the perfect gifts in brick-and-mortar stores. 

The tactile joy of browsing through shelves, trying on clothes, and smelling the scents of festive displays created an immersive Christmas atmosphere that's hard to replicate in today's online-dominated shopping landscape.

 2. The Iconic Christmas Adverts.

Who can forget the iconic Christmas adverts that graced our television screens in the 90s?

 These heart-warming and often tear-jerking commercials became an integral part of the Christmas experience. 

From the Coca-Cola truck rolling into town to the tear-inducing Yellow Pages "Fly" ad, these adverts not only marked the beginning of the festive season but also left a lasting imprint on the collective memory of Christmas.

 3. Charming Christmas Markets.

While Christmas markets are still a popular feature of the Christmas season, there's an undeniable charm to the smaller, more intimate markets of the 90s.

Picture cobbled streets lined with quaint stalls selling handmade crafts, roasted chestnuts wafting through the air, and the sound of local choirs singing carols.

 These markets fostered a sense of community and warmth that's sometimes lost in today's larger, more commercialised versions.

4. Circling Toys R Us/Argos catalogue. 

I remember the excitement of circling countless toy treasures in the Argos and Toys "R" Us catalogues. 

With a pen in hand, my imagination soared as I marked my wish list, each circle representing a coveted dream. 

Those glossy pages transformed into portals of possibility, creating anticipation for the magic of Christmas morning. 

In those moments, the simple act of circling was a ritual, a tangible connection to the enchanting world of toys and the unbridled wonder of being a child eagerly awaiting the festive season.

5. Handwritten Christmas cards. 

Before the age of digital communication took over, sending and receiving handwritten Christmas cards was a cherished ritual.

 The effort put into selecting or creating the perfect card, writing a personal message, and posting it to friends and family created a tangible connection that today's digital greetings lack. 

Opening the mailbox to find a stack of festive cards was a joyous experience, adding a personal touch to the Christmas season.

6. TV Specials and Classic Films.

The 90s were marked by timeless Christmas television specials and classic films that families looked forward to each year.

 Whether it was eagerly awaiting the Doctor Who Christmas special or gathering to watch beloved films like "Home Alone" or "The Snowman," these traditions created a shared cultural experience that brought people together in the spirit of joy and laughter.

 7. Homemade Christmas Puddings and Treats.

Christmas baking was a cherished tradition in 90s households. Families would come together to bake mince pies, Christmas puddings, and other festive treats. 

The smell of cinnamon and nutmeg wafting through the kitchen created an aromatic ambiance that signalled the arrival of the Christmas season. 

Today's convenience-driven culture may have led to a decline in the art of homemade Christmas baking.

 8. Festive Radio and Top of the Pops.

Before the age of streaming services, the radio played a central role in spreading festive cheer. 

Tuning in to hear the Christmas Top 40 on BBC Radio 1 or enjoying a special Christmas edition of Top of the Pops added a musical soundtrack to the season. 

Today's personalised playlists lack the communal experience of eagerly waiting to discover the year's top Christmas hits.

 9. Cosy Pubs and Local Gatherings.

The local pub was a quintessential part of Christmas in 90s UK. 

Whether it was enjoying a festive pint with friends or participating in a local pub quiz, the pub was a hub of community spirit. 

The warmth of a roaring fire, the clinking of glasses, and the camaraderie of neighbours created a unique atmosphere that's sometimes lost in today's fast-paced, digital socialising.

In conclusion, while contemporary Christmas celebrations have their own merits, there's an undeniable allure to the nostalgic charm of the 90s. 

The unique blend of traditional festivities, community spirit, and simple pleasures created a Christmas season that holds a special place in the hearts of those who experienced it. 

So, this Christmas, consider infusing a bit of 90s magic into your celebrations you might just rediscover the true spirit of the Christmas. 

Cheers for reading X