Schools and care homes: ideas for making Christmas 2025 extra special

Activity inspiration, taking care of your team and fantastic recipes…

Turning tradition into togetherness

In the cost sector, Christmas isn’t about driving sales, it’s about creating moments that matter. Whether you’re a care home or school, the festive season is a chance to spark joy, bring people together and make lasting memories. From themed activities to special menus and decorations, there are so many ways to lift spirits. For residents and pupils alike, it’s these thoughtful details that make Christmas a highlight of the year.

Activities to spark joy

Add sparkle to the season with interactive activities for residents. Try a Christmas cooking session making easy coconut-covered festive trees – a treat they can enjoy creating and eating. Host a cheese and wine or port-tasting evening, inviting friends and family to join. These relaxed social occasions encourage conversation, build connections and create heart-warming memories. They’re also a simple way to bring the wider community into your care home for a little extra Christmas cheer.

Team gratitude

Many care home kitchen staff spend Christmas away from their families to make the season special for residents. Show them they’re valued with meaningful gestures – a Christmas lunch or buffet or small gifts like chocolates and festive mugs. A ‘shout out board’ where colleagues recognise each other’s efforts can go a long way to boost morale. These thoughtful touches help create a sense of togetherness over the busy holiday period.

Christmas in the canteen

Bring festive feels to the school dining hall with creative menus and memorable activities. Serve themed mains like a Christmas-dinner-in-a wrap for a fun, easy-to-eat option, alongside seasonal desserts that pupils will love. Add an interactive element, such as a decorate-your own-cookie station to get everyone involved. Encourage festive spirit with table decorations, Christmas music and a friendly best-decorated-table contest. It’s the little details that make lunchtimes memorable, keep pupils engaged and turn mealtimes into a highlight of the school day.