Editorial Team
Learn to embrace that time off between Christmas and New Year – Betwixtmas is made for total relaxation
Twixmas. Twixtmas. Betwixtmas. Chances are a variation of this phrase has popped up in a Whatsapp chat or two. You may have unknowingly dipped your toe into it over Christmasses past, but what is Twixmas? How long does Twixtmas last? And what are the best ways to spend this time of year?
What is Twixmas?
Twixmas – or Twixtmas, depending on who you ask – is the name coined for that relaxed, nothing-y period between Christmas and New Year (26-31 December). It’s when you’re at home, basking in the Christmas afterglow, where the day of the week has become hazy and meaningless. It’s the perfect time to pause, relax and slowly prepare for the year ahead.
Why is it called Twixmas?
Is ’Twixmas’ a real word? In short: no. It’s an unofficial blend of two words; ‘betwixt’ (an old English word that means ‘between’) and ‘Christmas’. More and more people are using the term to describe the post-Yuletide period of time, especially if they’re lucky enough not to be at work.
No one knows who came up with the word ’Twixmas’, although it’s possible it was created by travel companies to sell minibreaks and holidays between Christmas and New Year. That said, the concept of resting after Christmas has endured for centuries. In medieval times, land workers took time to rest and reflect with loved ones after Christmas, with their break often lasting for several days. Today, ‘betwixtmas’ is more of a feeling: an opportunity to pause, relax and reset before the New Year.
Digital detox
Going offline is a great way to recharge your mind before the new year begins. Take a social media break, set screen time limits and focus on cosy, mindful activities, such as journalling, baking or jigsaws.
Get outside
Pull on your wellies and go for a countryside walk with friends and family. If you go solo, you can take a podcast for company or switch off the tech in favour of nature. Take a thermos to keep you warm as you wander.
New beginnings
Twixmas is the perfect time for some low effort preparation for 2026. Get organised with a meal planner, sort clothes, clean drawers and set some positive intentions for the year ahead.
Keep things cosy
Indulgence is the order of the day(s) during Twixmas, so turn the heating up and hunker down with cosy bedspreads, room-filling scent and the perfect armchair to lounge in while reading/watching great telly.
