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18 Unmissable Christmas Activity Ideas in the UK

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18 Unmissable Christmas Activity Ideas in the UK for a Festive Celebration

18 Unmissable Christmas Activity Ideas in the UK for a Festive Celebration

There are so many Christmas activities to choose from, it can be very overwhelming. It’s the most wonderful time of the year to immerse yourself in the joyous spirit with a plethora of delightful Christmas activity ideas across the UK. From creative crafting sessions to heartwarming visits with Santa, here are 18 festive suggestions that promise to make your celebrations in the UK truly memorable.

 

Book a Sip and Paint Class

Of course we had to start here! Unleash your inner artist, all with a drink in hand, by booking a Sip and Paint class – a unique Christmas craft activity offered by venues like Pinot and Picasso (who’s that?). Find your Christmas cheer with a not-so Silent Night creating your own festive masterpiece that you can gift to a loved one or hang in your home.

The artist will guide you step-by-step through an artwork and you can enjoy plenty of delicious drinks from their bar. This hands-on experience is perfect for individuals and groups alike, making it an ideal festive fun gathering.

18 Unmissable Christmas Activity Ideas in the UK for a Festive Celebration

Go and Visit Santa

Turn those Santa figurines into the real deal. Create heartwarming memories by taking the family to visit Santa Claus. Whether it’s at a local grotto or a special holiday event, there’s nothing like seeing the happy smiles of kids seeing Santa (or the loudest screams and cries).

This fun Christmas activity is great for the whole family and always makes a cute Christmas card to send to family and friends. Be sure to get your visit done before Christmas Eve – Santa will be quite busy by then.

 

Take a Trip to the Christmas Tree Farm

Embark on a festive adventure by visiting a Christmas tree farm (cue Taylor Swift) – a delightful Christmas activity that is always so exciting. Wander through rows of fragrant evergreens, selecting from the Christmas trees to become the feature of your home.

It is one of those great Christmas activities for kids, loved up couples or roommates to enjoy together. Will you find the perfect Christmas tree this season?

18 Unmissable Christmas Activity Ideas in the UK for a Festive Celebration

Plan a Holiday Photoshoot

Christmas activities can be a real laugh, like capturing the essence of the season by planning a holiday photoshoot. You can make it as fun or traditional as you like – maybe an ugly sweater contest can be a part of it?

Choose a picturesque location full with holiday decor, don coordinating outfits, and let a professional photographer or a talented friend snap those candid moments. We can’t wait to see them on Instagram and in your holiday cards.

 

Christmas Carols

Gather friends and family for a heartwarming Christmas carol session, an age-old tradition that never loses its charm. Whether you’re singing classic hymns or modern favourites, there’s nothing quite as fun as belting out a tune with friends.

Consider organising a neighbourhood carolling event or join an existing one to spread the Christmas cheer throughout your community.

 

Bake Some Christmas Cookies

Indulge in the sweet tradition of baking festive cookies – nothing that fills your home and tummy more than Christmas activities in the kitchen.

Whip up some salt dough ornaments, gingerbread or sugar cookies and get the kids involved in mixing, baking and decorating these sweet treats. These are memory making moments waiting to happen!

 

Put up Some Christmas Lights

Get the string lights out and start decorating your home to get you into the holiday spirit. Attend a tree lighting ceremony for some inspiration to transform your home into a winter wonderland with twinkling Christmas lights.

Whether decorating the exterior with colourful displays or creating a cosy vibe indoors, let your creativity shine indoors and out.

18 Unmissable Christmas Activity Ideas in the UK for a Festive Celebration

Build a Gingerbread House

Not many Christmas activities combine creativity with candy like making a gingerbread house. Gather your favourite sweets, icing, and the gingerbread house kit to construct a festive masterpiece that will be bittersweet to dig into over the holiday.

Get creative with your home with a popcorn garland, a liquorice chimney or a roof covered in M&Ms? Okay, we can’t give you all of the ideas!

 

Make Some Christmas Cards

If you love decorating, personalise your holiday greetings by crafting handmade Christmas cards. Draw inspiration from arty designs like the artworks from Pinot & Picasso or see what others are doing on Pinterest. You can never go wrong with using the colours of the season paired with a message to your loved ones.

Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or a novice, the effort put into your holiday cards will be appreciated by those who receive them. Go on, be extra festive with the glitter. We hope you’ll write letters and cards to us!

 

Get an Advent Calendar

Make the countdown to Christmas more delicious with an advent calendar, always enjoyed by kids and adults alike. Fill the days with chocolates, candy canes, sweets or small gifts – with weather like this, fill the advent calendar with things that will brighten your day (even when the sun can’t do that!).

Many brands now create their own advent calendars full of surprises, meaning you can purchase it and open to surprises everyday until Christmas Day!

18 Unmissable Christmas Activity Ideas in the UK for a Festive Celebration

Enjoy Some Hot Cocoa

Whether enjoying on Christmas morning or after a long day at work, a mug of hot cocoa can never disappoint on the cold winter nights. Go as crazy as you like and add marshmallows, whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Christmas ideas as simple as this can put the biggest smile on your kids face or enjoy sipping your hot cocoa solo. The diet starts in the new year, remember?

 

Prepare a Christmas Dinner

Family traditions like gathering loved ones for a delicious Christmas dinner. Cook seasonal recipes for a festive feast like turkey with trimmings or experience with unique culinary creations (ooh!). You can’t go wrong with a Christmas feast – just make sure the drama stays out of the kitchen.

Whether you host on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, bring a side dish to the family holiday parties or tag along with a partner, don’t forget to always compliment the chef!

 

Secret Santa

Add mystery, excitement and a touch of Christmas spirit to your celebrations with a Secret Santa gift exchange.

Whether with friends, family, or colleagues, Secret Santa is one of those fun Christmas activities that can leave you feeling grateful, even if someone bought you a pair of socks or a candle (does that mean I smell?).

18 Unmissable Christmas Activity Ideas in the UK for a Festive Celebration

Decorate the Christmas Tree

There’s nothing more wholesome and exciting than finally decorating your home for Christmas. A cherished Christmas activity like this always marks the beginning of the holiday season, even if you do it the day after Halloween.

Gather a collection of ornaments, lights, and tinsel, and make this one of the Christmas activities for kids to do together or the whole family. Turn on the Christmas music and start decorating until you can’t decorate no more.

 

Go Ice Skating

Fun Christmas activities like ice skating allows you to embrace the winter chill, feel the magic of Christmas and bring back that fear of trying to not fall over on the ice.

Many cities in the UK set up temporary ice rinks during the holiday season, providing the perfect opportunity for family outings or romantic dates.

18 Unmissable Christmas Activity Ideas in the UK for a Festive Celebration

Enjoy a Christmas Movie

One of the best Christmas activities you can do in December is cosy up with loved ones for a Christmas movie marathon. Turn the lounge room into a family slumber party.

Whether it’s a timeless holiday movie like ‘It’s a Wonderful Life’, modern favourites like ‘Elf’ or ‘Love Actually’ or movies that make it feel like Christmas, a movie night with hot cocoa or mulled wine in hand will always be a good time. Don’t forget the popcorn and festive snacks!

 

Go for a Family Walk

Take a stroll with your family through festive neighbourhoods full of twinkling lights and decorations – a simple yet heartwarming Christmas activity.

Enjoy the crisp winter air as you explore the magical displays around your community – who knew it could look this pretty?! Whether it’s a planned route or a spontaneous adventure, a family walk enhances the festive atmosphere and fosters a sense of togetherness.

 

Play a Game of ‘Christmas Song Bingo’

Put a musical twist on the classic bingo game by playing ‘Christmas Song Bingo’ – talk about a lively Christmas activity! Create bingo cards featuring popular holiday tunes, and as each song plays, mark off the corresponding squares.

This interactive and entertaining game brings laughter and joy to your gatherings, and impromptu concerts in the living room.

This festive season, make it a December to remember with these 18 Christmas activity ideas. Whether you’re unleashing your creativity at a sip & paint workshop, sipping cocoa by the fire, or enjoying the company of loved ones, these Christmas activities will have you feeling the warmth and joy of the season despite the winter chill.

FAQs

Does Pinot & Picasso Offer Discounts For Group Bookings?

We sure do! Any transactions with 6 or more tickets are eligible for a 15% discount with code GROUPBOOKING15. Save on your tickets and spend more at the bar on the delicious drinks on offer at our paint & sip studios.

 

Are There Local Studios In My Area?

While we don’t know your address, we can sure help you find the closest Pinot & Picasso studio to you. Just click here to see all of our current paint and sip studios in the UK.

 

Do I buy drinks at the studio?

Yes! We have a bar stocked with alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks for you to purchase from that will help you get into the Christmas spirit. We are not a BYOB studio, so please leave your drinks at home and save them for another day.

What is Canvas Art? A Beginners Guide to Canvas & Acrylic Paint

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What is Canvas Art? A Beginners Guide to canvas & Acrylic Paint - Pinot & Picasso

An artwork always starts with a blank canvas. From acrylic painting to working with oils, canvas art embraces many artistic styles. Many artists create with many different mediums but canvas print will always remain top tier.  So why do we love it so much, and how can you best use it in your creations?

What is Acrylic Canvas Art?

 One of the most exciting things about acrylic canvas art is staring at a blank canvas, picturing it being transformed into a masterpiece. Acrylic painting allows you to use vibrant colours to cover a canvas which was the art form that inspired painting geniuses like Jackson Pollock.

Acrylic Canvas Art vs Acrylic Canvas Prints

So, what’s the deal with acrylic canvas art versus acrylic canvas prints? Well, it’s like comparing the thrill of creating your own piece of art to the joy of appreciating printed masterpieces.

Acrylic canvas art is all about you, your vision, and the sheer joy of bringing it to life. On the other hand, acrylic canvas prints are like eye-catching replicas of stunning acrylic paintings, ready to adorn your walls without getting your hands dirty. Both have their own charm and perks, but it depends on the type of creative YOU are as to which one you prefer.

What is Acrylic Paint?

Let’s talk about the king of paints (our personal fave): acrylic paint. It’s like the Picasso of the paint world, bold and versatile. It’s water-based, dries quickly, and gives you the power to layer colours and create breathtaking effects on your canvas. Unlike its oil-based cousins, acrylic paint loves a splash of water and is super easy to clean up. So, no more worrying about getting into a sticky situation when you’re on a creative streak.

What is Canvas Art? A Beginners Guide to canvas & Acrylic Paint

Acrylic Paint vs Watercolour vs Oil Paint

In one corner, we have the feisty acrylic paint, known for its boldness and versatility. With a water-based composition and quick-drying powers, acrylics offer a colourful playground for artists to explore. Layer it, mix it, and add texture to your heart’s content. It’s the cool kid of the paint world, making art accessible to all with its wide range of pigments and easy cleanup.

What is Canvas Art? A Beginners Guide to canvas & Acrylic Paint

In the opposite corner, watercolour steps in, bringing a touch of ethereal beauty to the fight. This translucent medium dances delicately on the canvas, capturing light, shadows, and the sweet nuances of nature. With water as its faithful companion, watercolour effortlessly blends and flows, creating soft and whimsical washes of colour. It’s perfect for those seeking a dreamy and enchanting aesthetic in their paintings.

And finally, making a grand entrance, we have the heavyweight champion, oil paint. With its rich and vibrant pigments, oil paint creates bold and timeless masterpieces stroke by stroke. Its slow drying time allows for seamless blending and intricate details, giving depth and intensity to your artwork. Oil painting is the grand maestro, conducting a symphony of colours that captivates the eye.

What is Canvas Art? A Beginners Guide to canvas & Acrylic Paint

Each paint has its own unique qualities and moments in the spotlight. Whether you choose the versatility of acrylic paint, the ethereal charm of watercolour, or the timeless elegance of oil paint, let your artistic vision guide you. Embrace the paint that speaks to you, and let the battle of the paints commence (sorry not sorry, we can be really dramatic).

 

Advantages of Acrylic Paint:

There are many advantages to acrylic painting. Here are just a few:

  1. Pigments Galore: Acrylics come in a dazzling array of pigments, ensuring your painting bursts with stunning colours.
  2. Layer It Up: You can pile on the colours, creating depth and dimension that’ll make your art pop.
  3. Texture, Baby: Acrylics are all about texture. Grab a brush, a palette knife, or even your fingers, and create captivating textures that’ll add a touch of magic to your masterpiece.

Acrylic Painting Techniques:

When it comes to acrylic painting techniques, it’s all about layering. Think of it as building a delicious sandwich, but instead of mayo and lettuce, you’re stacking colours, patterns, and textures.

Play around with different brush strokes, try splattering or even pouring techniques, and let your creativity run wild. There are no rules when it comes to acrylic paint.

 

Beginner’s Guide to Different Canvases

Let’s talk canvases, shall we? They’re the surfaces where your artistic ideas come to life. Here’s a beginner’s guide to different canvases, so you can make an informed choice for your next creation:

Understanding the Difference in Canvases

When it comes to canvases, you have a buffet of options. You’ve got your trusty cotton canvas, versatile and widely used in the art world. Then there’s the classy linen canvas, known for its smooth surface and durability. And if you’re feeling adventurous, synthetic canvases offer unique textures and are often budget-friendly.

Choosing the Right Canvases

Now, let’s find the perfect canvas match for your artistic aspirations:

  • Pre-Stretched Canvases: These ready-to-go canvases are the instant noodles of the art world. They come in various sizes, and all you need to do is unpack and start painting. Easy-peasy.
  • Canvas Panels: If you’re an art-on-the-go kind of person, canvas panels are your best buddies. They’re lightweight, portable, and perfect for unleashing your creativity anywhere and everywhere.
  • Canvas Rolls: Feeling like a rebel? Get yourself some canvas rolls. Cut and stretch them onto your desired frame, and boom! You’ve got a custom canvas size that’s as unique as your creativity.
What is Canvas Art? A Beginners Guide to canvas & Acrylic Paint

What Do You Need?

Alright, let’s gather your artistic arsenal. Here’s what you’ll need to embark on your creative journey:

  • Acrylic Paints: A colourful palette of acrylic paints will get your creation started. Choose your favourite shades and get ready to paint the town… or canvas.
  • Acrylic Paint Brushes: Like a band with different instruments, you’ll need an assortment of brushes. Grab a variety of sizes and shapes so you can be prepared for whatever you decide to paint.
  • Art Materials: Time to get creative. Palette knives, sponges, or even those old toothbrushes collecting dust in your bathroom drawer can be transformed into tools of artistic expression. Embrace the unexpected.
  • Stretcher Bars or Wooden Frames: It’s time to give your canvas a sturdy backbone. Choose the size that fits your vision, stretch your canvas, and get ready to create a masterpiece that’ll make heads turn.
  • Frame It Up: Want to add a touch of sophistication to your masterpiece? Consider framing it, because your masterpiece deserves to be hung in The Louvre – or your home. A wooden frame is a popular option among most artists. You can also paint your wooden frame a certain colour to match your painting.
  • Gesso: The secret weapon of artists. Gesso acts as the primer for your canvas, preparing it for all the colours you’re daring to play with. So don’t forget to give your canvas a gesso coat before starting.

FAQs

Is Acrylic Painting Hard?

Not at all! Acrylic painting is a care-free activity filled with colours, laughter, and maybe a few happy accidents along the way. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned artist, acrylics are here to make your artistic journey as smooth as a paintbrush gliding across the canvas. No talent necessary, as we like to say.

How Long Does Acrylic Paint Last on Canvas?

When treated with love and displayed away from harsh elements, your acrylic masterpiece can last for decades. So go ahead and create with confidence, knowing that your acrylic print will stand the test of time (or as long as you want it to last).

When Should I Use Acrylic Paint?

The answer is simple: whenever you want! Acrylic paint is incredibly versatile and can be used on various surfaces like canvas, paper, wood, or even your neighbour’s old rocking chair (with permission, of course).

Can I Mix Acrylic Paints?

Absolutely! Mixing acrylic paints is a fundamental part of the artistic process. Don’t be afraid to get adventurous with your colours on your palette.

Do I Need to Water Acrylic Paint Down?

Not necessarily. The choice is entirely yours. If you want a more transparent and watercolour-like effect, adding a little water to your acrylic paint can do the trick. But if you prefer a thicker consistency, you can use the paint straight from the tube. The beauty of acrylics lies in their versatility, so do experiment and find the perfect balance that suits your artistic vision.

What is Canvas Art? A Beginners Guide to canvas & Acrylic Paint

Book a Paint and Sip Session with Pinot & Picasso Today!

Anyone can be an artist, and we’d love to show you. Enjoy step-by-step guidance from our artists that will help you create a masterpiece that will soon become wall art for you to hang up at home. With a range of sessions and mediums, there’s no talent necessary when it comes to canvas print at our paint and sip studios. Try it for yourself and find your local Pinot & Picasso studio today.

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