Christmas is coming up fast and it’s difficult not to feel the pressure when it comes to buying presents for everyone you know. I’ve compiled a few ideas that hopefully will inspire some of you and help you with your ideas for your loved ones.
I can’t not mention Game of Thrones as it has been really popular this year so I’m sure you’ll be able to find at least one person who hasn’t collected all the books, watched the whole series or played the Game of Thrones board game (just make sure you get the 2nd edition of the board game as it’s been rated much higher than the first). You could also wander into Stray's in town and find some great books for amazing value! Also, the new Furby came out recently and I know that there will be many children just wishing on as many stars as they can find for one and you can make their wishes come true by popping down to Argos and getting one for around £50. If you have any gamers that you need to buy for then why not visit Reload Games? They have a large variety of games, accessories and consoles in store. You could also pop into Ann et Vin as they sell some really great (and different) wines, I’ve found some amazing wines in their store for really great prices! Who wouldn’t like a bottle of red under the tree? Beth Rushton Cakes make some delicious cakes that look incredible! I’ve bought some cupcakes there in the past and they’re a nice sweet treat and would go nicely in a hamper!
There are also presents that you can make yourself, I’ve opted for knitting most of my presents this year and I have a feeling that most of the recipients will appreciate the love and care that’s gone into them. I’ve knitted scarves, hats and even jumpers for my family and friends this year. You could pop on down to Gifts and Pieces in town, buy some wool and get a pattern either from a book, a shop or online (there are many available for cheap or even for free on Craftsy)!
If knitting isn’t your thing then there’s many other things that you can do too! I had so much fun painting plates at The Glazey Place in Mansfield and it’s so cheap! You buy a plate, mug, money box or whatever you like the look of on site, pay the £2.50 fee for painting and glazing and you’re off! Artypots do the same thing and you can get free studio fee offers if you follow them on facebook.
You could also explore Hills of Newark arts shop and invest in a few crafty materials and make something special. The kids could make a book about why they love their mummy, daddy, granny or grandad so much and then illustrate it too! You could make your own christmas cards or paint a picture! The possibilities are endless!
If you’re still stuck for ideas then Newark are turning on their lights on 24th November and they’ve planned a real treat for us! There shall be charity stalls and a craft market from 11am until 5:30pm accompanied by live local and national bands. We shall also be treated to a fair with rides and some gorgeous fireworks from 5:00pm!
The Lincoln Christmas Market is also a wonderful place to find unique Christmas presents and it opens on 5th December until 8th December. The opening times vary a little and are as follows:
Thursday 5th - 12pm - 9:30pm
Friday 6th/Saturday 7th - 10am - 9:30pm
Sunday 8th - 10am - 7pm
They have over 250 stalls in the medieval market square and you shall also have the pleasure of experiencing some cultural entertainment.
If you don’t mind straying a little further out then Nottingham Winter Wonderland opens on Wednesday November 20th and only closes on 5th January 2014. It’s also open from 10am until 6pm seven days a week! It includes a Christmas Market with over 50 stalls selling delightful things and you can also go Ice Skating from £6.50 for students, children and seniors and £8.50 for adults, you can also get family tickets for £25.
I certainly hope that this helps some of you find that special something for the people in your life.
Good luck and Happy Holidays!
