Some say that the fondest memories are made when gathered around a table, something that we take pride in here at Abbeyfield and aim for anyone who joins us on Christmas Day to make lasting memories.
We wanted to know how different houses across Abbeyfield spent Christmas day, here is an insight into just a few of our homes.
Northfield Court, Taunton
Our twelve residents are always warmly invited to stay for the festive period here at Northfield Court. We pride ourselves in offering a very special few days, starting from Christmas eve activities, to Boxing day buffet!
Christmas Day is all about having fun, with our three dining tables all pulled together to make a large square setting, so that everyone feels included. A three course meal is offered, with a choice of starters, melon balls and soup, locally sourced roast turkey and all the trimmings, and a homemade Christmas pudding. Residents, friends and staff all enjoy a sumptuous meal, with sherry, fizz, and other refreshments all available. Pass the parcel, charades, and other games are laid on, followed by a cup of tea and mince pies.
Residents are then offered some light bites to enjoy in their rooms after what is generally a wonderful day of good home cooked food and laughter. Our kitchen manager Debbie always makes sure that our residents have the best day, and as a society, we are very grateful to her and all the team for making Christmas special and memorable at Northfield Court.
Abbeyfield Australia
Here in Australia, depending on the location of our Abbeyfield House, will determine the type of Christmas lunch. We typically have Christmas lunches given the type of foods eaten and with the weather being hot, they are usually long lunches!
Here is an example of the food we enjoy on Christmas Day:
Entrees
Prawns and/or a seafood platter
Main
Christmas Turkey and Ham for mains with roasted veggies and salads
Dessert
Christmas pudding and/or a pavlova and a fresh fruit platter and of course Ice cream!
Even though the weather on Christmas day can reach over 40 degrees, many of us still do the Christmas Turkey and Ham for our main meal.
Our Christmas’s have the traditional features of bon bons, eating outside, games in the back yard and the afternoon nap from too much food (and/or drink!). Given the beautiful weather leading up to Christmas, we have a lot of Christmas parties and BBQ’s prior to the day.
Interesting facts from Australia
Pull the other one!
Christmas crackers are called Bon Bons in Australia, filled with a festive treat, a hat and a joke.
Tis the sea-sun to be jolly!
December is a very hot month in Australia, some areas experience heat waves of over 40 degrees!
Ready, set, glow!
Christmas lights are very popular in Australia and it is common for neighbourhoods to hold competitions for the best decorated house!
Pratt House, Amersham
On Christmas day our wonderful chefs Ian and Jane Cook an incredible traditional Christmas Dinner with all the trimmings. After dinner we have mulled wine and a homemade shortbread minced meat slice with brandy sauce, followed by coffee, mints and lots of Christmas cheer.
Later in the day we share Christmas carols and movies, and very possibly a snooze in an armchair!
Throughout the month of December we have had visits from the local church with a nativity performance by puppets and a lovely local choir who delighted us with Christmas carols, we have even had a visit from some donkeys!
We like to spend time reflecting on all the fun we have had over the festive season.
Next Steps
Food is at the heart of Abbeyfield
Abbeyfield takes great pride in the food that we offer in our houses, from baking competitions, sunday roasts to gingerbread houses, it is always at the heart of what we do and the perfect way to bring people together.
Abbeyfield Gingerbread House Creations
Residents, staff and supporters have been busy with their preparations for Christmas, which included turning their hands to baking gingerbread houses, with some incredible results.
Winter warmer recipes
It is the perfect time to get out the slow cooker or your favourite casserole dish and make some hearty meals to warm your cockles!