Why traditional items define the spirit of Christmas

The festive season is often defined by items that have been kept for years rather than new purchases, according to the Filter deputy editor Monica Horridge. She noted that her oldest decorations are silver paper streamers from her grandparents' collection, which likely pre-date 1971 based on the price marked in shillings on the box. These items evoke memories of her late father hanging them from the dining room ceiling during her childhood.

Many people find that ageing, slightly damaged ornaments carry the most meaning because they represent Christmases from the past. Filter audience editor Ella Jinadu explained that she enjoys placing a beaded fairy on the tree that she received during primary school. She stated: “I love finding a prime spot on the tree for a little beaded fairy I got at a fair in primary school. It has pipe cleaner arms and legs so you can wrap it around the tree in different poses. When the lights catch the beads, it looks fab.”

For Filter editor Hannah Booth, the most significant decorations are those crafted by her 12-year-old daughter years ago. She has also recently acquired vintage wooden ornaments from a Christmas market that were originally bought in NYC in 1974, the year of her birth. These items, featuring angels, ice skaters, and rocking horses, are pieces she expects to keep forever. She remarked: “A set of gorgeous retro wooden tree decorations [the seller had] bought in NYC in 1974 (the year I was born): ice skaters, angels, rocking horses. I know I’ll have them for ever.”

Those looking to establish new traditions while minimizing waste might consider durable decorations, such as Swedish angel chimes or fabric Advent calendars that can be reused annually. Hannah Rochell has suggested various items, including wreaths made from recycled saris, for those who do not have time to create foliage versions. Rochell also provided guidance on making gifts at home without needing specialist skills.

Expert-led gift ideas include Little Duck head chef Sara Thomson’s spiced beetroot pickled turnips, described as “a brilliant pink jar of goodness.” Other suggestions include Sarah Raven’s bulb “lasagne” pot, which blooms in February, and a DIY scented room spray created by Duxmore Botanics founder Char Legge. Although the team at Filter HQ has sampled many shop-bought items, homemade treats remain highly valued.

Hannah Booth noted that she frequently brings cinnamon stars to social gatherings. She said: “I always take cinnamon stars along to any Christmas gathering. They’re a tiny bit time-consuming, but worth it because people are always more impressed than they really should be.” Meanwhile, production editor Emily Goddard makes fudge, a tradition she began with her late father, and Ella Jinadu recommends homemade chilli oil.

Regarding the chilli oil, Jinadu advised: “You can tailor the oil to the spiciness you want and add different flavours in there too. Remember to properly sterilise the bottles or jars before adding in the oil.” The publication also highlighted various guides for readers, including advice on artificial Christmas trees, gift ideas for different family members, and beauty Advent calendars.

For those updating their winter wardrobe, the publication offers guides on the best men’s and women’s coats. Additionally, Jane Hoskyn has tested nine recipe boxes and meal delivery kits for those interested in home cooking without the stress of shopping. She described these kits as “the best thing to happen to time-poor foodies since, well, sliced bread,” adding that they are “cheaper than a takeaway, often less processed than a ready meal, and much more culinarily adventurous than beans on toast.” Readers are encouraged to share their favourite gifts by emailing [email protected].