The magic of Christmas is in the air at Buckland Care, and our 11 homes are bustling with festive cheer, heartwarming traditions, and the joy of shared moments. Christmas is a special time for our residents and staff alike, where every decoration, activity, and shared smile brings warmth and connection. Here’s a peek into how our homes are gearing up to celebrate a joyful season.
Decking the Halls with Christmas Spirit
From twinkling lights to beautifully adorned trees, each of our homes takes pride in creating a cosy, festive atmosphere. Residents and staff join forces to deck the halls, each decoration and bauble placed with care, often sparking stories and memories from Christmases gone by. It’s not just about putting up decorations; it’s a chance for residents to bring a bit of their own holiday magic to their surroundings, making our homes feel truly personal.
Festive Activities and Crafts
In the weeks leading up to Christmas, our homes become creative hubs filled with crafting, baking, and making. Residents enjoy decorating Christmas biscuits, creating handmade ornaments, and even crafting gifts for family members. For many, these small crafts become precious keepsakes, and the process itself brings a wonderful sense of accomplishment and pride.
The Big Buckland Carol Singalong
Save the date for Tuesday, 10th December—the Big Buckland Carol Singalong! This much-loved event brings together residents, staff, and family members for a festive singalong that truly fills the air with Christmas cheer. From “O Come, All Ye Faithful” to “Jingle Bells,” the songs spark cherished memories and unite everyone in a joyful celebration. There’s nothing quite like the sound of carols ringing through our halls, creating a sense of warmth, nostalgia, and togetherness across all our Buckland homes.
Elf Day: Bringing Out Our Inner Elves
Mark your calendars for Wednesday, 4th December—Elf Day! This special day sees staff and residents donning their best elf costumes, adding a touch of festive cheer and a lot of laughter. With elf-themed games, a ‘find the elf’ scavenger hunt, and perhaps a few treats delivered by Santa’s helpers, Elf Day is always filled with joy. It’s not only a day for smiles and silliness but also raises awareness for Alzheimer’s care, bringing a deeper purpose to the fun.
Christmas Jumper Day
On Thursday, 12th December, our homes will be getting cosy and colourful for Christmas Jumper Day! Residents, staff, and visitors are invited to wear their brightest, silliest, and most festive Christmas jumpers. Whether it’s a classic reindeer design or something with a bit of sparkle, Christmas Jumper Day is all about bringing smiles, spreading joy, and raising funds for a meaningful cause. It’s a day that adds a pop of fun and warmth, reminding us all to embrace the season’s spirit.
Visits from the Community
Our homes are part of wider communities, and the holiday season brings a special chance for our residents to connect with local groups. This year, we’re thrilled to welcome visits from schoolchildren, cub groups, and community volunteers who bring Christmas cheer through songs, stories, and small acts of kindness. These moments are always a highlight, as residents enjoy the energy and joy of younger visitors, creating special bonds that often last well beyond the holiday season.
Santa and Seasonal Surprises
Santa never forgets a stop at Buckland Care! Residents can look forward to a visit from the man in red himself, complete with gifts and laughter. Some homes even host Secret Santa exchanges, giving residents and staff the fun of choosing special, thoughtful surprises for one another. It’s all about the spirit of giving and showing appreciation for each other.
A Christmas Feast to Remember
Christmas dinner is always a highlight, and our chefs prepare a feast that rivals any family table. Traditional roast turkey, seasonal veggies, and all the trimmings bring a taste of home to our residents. The festive table is set, and everyone gathers to enjoy delicious food, cheerful conversation, and, of course, Christmas pudding to top it all off. This shared meal is a lovely reminder of togetherness and celebration.
Ringing in the New Year
When Christmas celebrations wrap up, our homes prepare for one final hoorah to welcome the New Year. Residents and staff gather for a New Year’s Eve celebration, complete with festive decorations, mocktails, and a countdown to midnight. It’s a time to reflect on the year past and share hopes for the year to come. For residents, this night is filled with togetherness, joy, and perhaps a few nostalgic stories. As the clock strikes midnight, we’re reminded that each New Year brings fresh opportunities and cherished connections.
A Toast to Togetherness
The holiday season is about celebrating the joy of connection, and each of our homes does so in its unique way. From Christmas Eve gatherings to New Year’s Day celebrations, the entire month is filled with warmth, laughter, and the magic that only Christmas can bring. At Buckland Care, we’re all about creating moments that matter, helping each resident feel at home, and reminding them they are part of something special—a true family.
So, as we head into this festive season, we’re ready to spread joy, bring back cherished memories, and create new ones. Here’s to a Buckland Care Christmas, where every day is an opportunity to make someone smile and bring a little extra light to their lives.
