The twinkling lights are going up, the festive spirit is in the air, and the thought of hosting Christmas is beginning to dawn. This year, why not trade the stress of preparing your own home for the magic of a holiday rental in Brighton or Sussex? Imagine a Christmas where someone else handles the cleanup, and your only job is to make memories.
Hosting Christmas in a holiday home is the secret to a truly joyful and relaxed celebration. Here is your ultimate guide to pulling it off seamlessly.
1. Plan Ahead and Book Early
This is the golden rule for a festive getaway. Christmas is a peak time for holiday lets in Sussex, from charming coastal cottages in Brighton to sprawling country manors in the South Downs. Start your search on MyGetaways early to secure the perfect property that fits your entire party. Booking early ensures you get your first choice and often better rates.
2. Choose the Perfect Property for Your Party
Think carefully about your guest list. Are you hosting a big family reunion or an intimate friendsmas? Use our filters on MyGetaways to find a home that suits your needs.
- Space: Look for open-plan living areas for festive gatherings and enough bedrooms to avoid anyone drawing the short straw.
- Dining: A large dining table is a must for the Christmas feast. Check the seating capacity in the photos.
- Kitchen: A well-equipped kitchen is vital. Ensure it has enough hob space, a decent oven, and ample fridge room for all your festive food.
- Extras: A log burner, a garden for a brisk winter walk, or even a games room can uplift your Christmas from great to unforgettable.
3. Master the Meal Plan
The Christmas dinner is the centrepiece, but it does not have to be a source of panic.
- Go Local: Embrace the Sussex food scene. Pre-order your turkey, vegetables, and cheese from local butchers, farm shops, and delis. Marks & Spencers Christmas Food also do a click-and collect service. Many will have collection points, making it easy.
- Simplify: Consider a partially pre-prepared meal. Many local pubs and caterers offer Christmas dinner sides and desserts you can just heat and serve.
- Delegate: Make it a shared event! Assign sides, desserts, and drinks to different guests. It lightens your load and adds variety to the table.
- Check Equipment: When you arrive, do a quick inventory of the kitchen. Are there enough roasting trays? Is there a working whisk? Knowing what is there prevents last-minute scrambles.
4. Decorate with Ease
One of the joys of a holiday home is that you do not need to deck the halls like a shopping centre. A few thoughtful touches can bring all the festive cheer.
- Pack a Festive Box: Bring a small box of your favourite, lightweight decorations. A beautiful tablecloth, a centrepiece, some fairy lights, and a few cherished tree ornaments can transform the space without the hassle.
- Embrace Nature: Sussex is beautiful in winter. Gather pinecones, holly, and evergreen branches for a natural, rustic tablescape. It is free and beautifully festive.
5. Plan Festive Activities
The location is your biggest asset. Research what is on in Brighton and Sussex over the Christmas period.
- Brighton Fun: Enjoy the bracing sea air on a wintery stroll along the Palace Pier. Explore the festive displays in The Lanes, or visit the iconic Royal Pavilion Ice Rink. See our guide to your festive Brighton getaway here
- Sussex Charm: Explore a Christmas market, like the one at Wakehurst, or go for a family walk in the South Downs National Park. A crisp winter walk makes returning to a cosy holiday home with a log burner even more special.
- Indoor Cosiness: Bring board games, a festive playlist, and a selection of classic Christmas films. The goal is connection and relaxation.
6. Communicate with Your Guests
Clear communication is key to a stress-free group holiday. Once booked, create a simple group chat or email thread.
- Share the property details and address.
- Coordinate travel arrangements.
- Finalise the food delegation plan.
- Discuss any gift exchange rules or secret Santa arrangements.
7. Embrace the Benefits
Remember why you chose a holiday home. The biggest benefit is walking away from the mess. After the presents are opened and the last mince pie is eaten, you simply pack your bags. No days of washing up, no vacuuming pine needles, just the glow of a wonderful Christmas spent together.
This Christmas, give yourself and your family the gift of time and tranquility. Let a MyGetaways Christmas holiday home in Brighton or Sussex provide the perfect backdrop for your most stress-free and memorable celebration yet.
Start browsing our festive collection of holiday lets today and make this Christmas one to remember.