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My name is Rhys, a first time dad blogging about my adventures and experiences of being a parent. [email protected]

Keeping Yourself Entertained in The Run Up to Christmas

Which type are you?

In the week before Christmas, people generally fall into two categories. Those who are running around like headless chickens trying to get everything done for the big day, and those who are counting down the hours until the festivities begin. There rarely seem to be people who fall in the middle. Those who have just the right amount of activity. Those with plenty of time to finish all their work while still enjoying socialising with friends and being fabulously well-prepared for Christmas.

For those who want entertainment

Chances are, if you are looking for ways to keep yourself entertained, you probably are not one of the ‘headless chicken’ types. But, even if you are, you still deserve some ‘me time’ in the run-up to Christmas. So here are some things you can do over the next few days to get you in the seasonal mood.

Siân Reeves and Gareth Thomas. Credit: Tim Dickeson

Go to the pantomime

The panto is a uniquely British institution. “Oh no, it isn’t; oh yes, it is”.  There is a fabulous selection of shows to choose from across Wales. You will find star-studded professional shows like Snow White in Cardiff, with rugby legend Gareth Thomas appearing alongside Mike Doyle as the Dame.  However, you do not have to travel to the city to get your panto fix. Across the land, regional theatres have their equally brilliant productions. You can find many an amateur dramatic panto on in local community centres as well.

Visit a makers’ fayre

Christmas does not have to be about spending a fortune. As the old saying goes, it is the thought that counts. Sometimes it is good to think about local communities and artisan makers. You can usually find great last-minute gifts and scrumptious treats at local Christmas markets.

Snuggle up with a box set

With the recent freezing temperatures and incoming wet weather, it could be tempting not to go anywhere, and who could blame you? With these short days and long nights, there is nothing more comforting than grabbing your favourite blanket, a box of chocolates and finding a reliable box set to binge on – nothing too taxing and possibly something you have watched before. A recent study showed that shows like Friends, The Simpsons and The Great British Bake Off are amongst our favourite shows to chill down to. They keep us entertained but do not require us to concentrate too hard. We can wrap the presents at the same time. Ah, bliss!

Play some games

If you are waiting like an over-excited child for Christmas Day, remember that play is good for you as an adult too. It helps you release endorphins that release stress levels and can make you happy and content. If you like your gaming interactive, you might want to download the latest updates to a video game; it might be best not to buy a new one as perhaps someone is buying it for you for Christmas! Or you could try your luck on a Christmas-themed online slot; there are loads to choose from at the best slot sites like Casushi and Duelz casino.

Merry Zipmas

If you are looking for even more of a thrill, why not get yourself up to Zip World for a truly memorable day out?  Zipmas is a magical festive experience in North Wales. It is a Christmas Grotto adventure like no other. You can meet Santa in his grotto 500 feet underground in the site’s historical caverns. In addition, a game of underground adventure golf is on offer if you fancy a putt or two. There is also a slate bauble decorating workshop, free mince pies, and hot chocolate for visitors. A ride on the underground cable railway to the Victorian slate mines makes for an adventure not to be missed.

Whatever you do, remember to have fun. If you are the one with time on your hands, maybe ask the busy people if there is anything you can do to help!