7 classic Christmas traditions, reimagined

Christmas is, undoubtedly, a time for tradition. Our beloved Noel just wouldn’t be the same without baubles on the tree, a roast with all the trimmings, or handing out Christmas gifts to our nearest and dearest. Dickensian devotees might argue that we need to leave these treasured rituals alone. But not everyone wants to tuck into dry turkey or hunt for a squashed satsuma at the bottom of their stocking.

To us, Christmas is about magic. And what’s more magical than allowing our imaginations to wander, and enchanting friends and loved ones with new takes on cherished traditions? Ready to stitch together past and present? Here are 7 ways to reimagine tradition and create a truly unforgettable Christmas.

1. Swap the classic Christmas scene for an edible winter wonderland 

Both big kids and little ones find it hard to resist the enchanting allure of a Christmas maquette or nativity scene. Sitting patiently on a shelf or windowsill waiting to be discovered, the classic Christmas scene has an appeal similar to that of a delicate doll’s house or a mysterious music box. There’s just something so undeniably captivating about uncovering a whole other world in magical miniature form.

How could we possibly make this classic Christmas tradition even more appealing? By adding chocolate, of course. Why not build your very own ‘Hansel and Gretel’ style enchanted forest full of Caramel and Milk Chocolate Spruces and teeny tiny Chocolate Gingerbread Men? You could even nestle a selection of Salted Caramel Christmas Chocolate Supernovas on the forest floor amongst edible rocks (our Chocolate Gemstones) and sweet candy canes. It’ll be a feast for the eyes and the taste buds.

2. Go beyond the chocolate bauble: decorate your tree with these drinkable delights 

Who says you can’t hang hot chocolate on the tree?

For a tantalising twist on the classic Christmas tree tradition, go beyond the bauble and adorn your tree’s branches with a selection of drinkable delights. Pop your hot chocolate sachets into miniature stockings or pouches, and hang them high and low next to twinkling LEDs*, colourful garlands, and magical Mini Chocolate Crackers.

Before bedtime, invite your little ones to slip into a pair of PJs, snuggle up on the sofa, and pick out a pouch or stocking from the tree. They’ll adore the playful ritual of discovering which festive hot chocolate recipe is hidden away inside.

Once the kids have finished off their evening treat and are safely tucked up in bed, it’s time for the adults to make their selections. Shut the door, sink into the sofa, and discover the deep, indulgent fruity notes in our heavenly Black Forest Gateau Hot Chocolate Sachets or Salted Caramel and Clementine Sachets.

Want to thank your partner for all the little things they’ve done throughout the year? Slip our Tipples & Treats: Chocolate & Fizz Collection under the tree as a thoughtful way to show your appreciation.

*Position your hot chocolate sachets away from your LED fairy lights to prevent melting. Never place sachets directly next to non-LED lights, as these can emit high levels of heat.

3. Say cheers with an extra-special festive tipple

When it comes to festive tipples, why limit yourself to the same old drinks selection?

Never deviating from the same bottle of port or always purchasing a certain ‘popular’ brand of Irish cream might be their idea of the perfect Christmas tradition, but it doesn’t have to be yours.

Daring to be different is all part of the magic. In fact, these imaginative Christmas beverages are the result of our own constant innovation:

This December, crack open a bottle of our Black Forest Gateau Velvetised Cream — an exceptionally smooth treat that captures the essence of this decadent dessert in a glass. The perfect balance of deep cacao, tangy morello cherry and velvety cream, it will transport you to a winter wonderland with every sip, making it the perfect companion for those comforting winter nights by the fire.

In the mood for something fresh and minty? Our Mint Chocolate Velvetised Cream brings together a harmonious blend of real cream, decadent dark chocolate, invigorating peppermint, and a splash of vodka. The result? An exquisite after-dinner digestif that’ll create a moment of blissful indulgence unlike any other.

If you simply can’t decide which of our drinks to pick, go for our Velvetised Creams Collection — an elegant assortment of our best-loved Velvetised creams. Share them with friends and loved ones, or save them for a quiet moment of indulgence after the kids have settled down.

After a classic spirit to add to your festive drinks cabinet? Opt for our Salted Caramel Vodka Liqueur. This luscious liqueur blends rich caramel notes, intense cacao-infused vodka, and a hint of salt for a welcome savoury touch. Pour it over ice or drizzle onto a festive dessert for a moment of pure festive bliss.

4. Bring even more joy with a Christmas Eve box that’s anything but ordinary

Why not kick-start the Christmas magic a little early with a box of goodies on Christmas Eve?

One of the more modern customs on our list is the Christmas Eve box tradition, which gives everyone a taste of the festivities to come, and a small surprise to enjoy before the big day.

When it comes to Christmas Eve boxes, a little thought goes a long way. Rather than filling your box with lacklustre gifts, go for a festive theme. You could create a box for a festive family film night, squeezing in an adorable Santa Tiddly Pot alongside some fluffy Christmas slippers, and a small bag of salted popcorn.

Preparing for the arrival of Santa and Rudolph? They deserve a treat too. Pop our Tipples & Treats: Chocolate Velvetised Cream & Macarons Collection into a box for Santa to savour, alongside some crunchy carrots for those ravenous reindeer.

5. Stock up on stand-out stocking-sized surprises 

Ready to nail your gift giving this year? Win over your nearest and dearest with our charming Chocolate Stocking Fillers.

If you happen to be buying for vegan relatives, don’t forget to add in a box of our Unbelievably Vegan* Chocolate Reindeers. Velvety smooth, with subtle notes of nuttiness, they’re ideal for vegan friends and family who make no compromises when it comes to indulgent dairy-free treats.

After a small gift set that will fill their eyes with wonder? Grab our Waddle of Penguins gift tin — a charming crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for all ages. Stuff these delightful bite-sized penguins into their stockings and see them smile as they discover their newfound friends inside.

*We believe this chocolate is suitable for vegans, however as it is made in the same environment as our milk chocolate, we cannot guarantee it is free from milk.

6. A wreath you can eat? Don’t mind if I do… 

It’s time to re-write the rules on Christmas wreaths. Set the festive table with a twist by swapping traditional foliage for a decadent chocolate Christmas Wreath.

Our showstopping Dark Chocolate Wreath works as both a striking centrepiece and a captivating indoor door decoration. Made from rich 70% dark chocolate, and adorned with hazelnuts, almonds, and plump raisins, you’d be hard-pressed to find a more eye-catching wreath anywhere else. It’s seriously spectacular.

The best part about it? When you’re done using it as decor, you can break off a chunk and bite into its heavenly fruity filling.

7. Swap dull table decor for exciting festive party favours

Forget dated festive napkins and budget crackers packed with underwhelming gifts. You have a showstopping chocolate wreath centrepiece, so why stop there?

If you’re planning a festive soirée, ditch the classic cracker tradition. Instead of supermarket crackers filled with generic junk and novelty gifts, dazzle your guests with the elegance of our magical Mini Chocolate Crackers. These delicate miniature crackers not only contain heavenly chunks of chocolate, but they also come in sleek, white packaging — ready to complement the chicest of Christmas tables.

For the perfect dinner party finish, pop our Christmas Pocket Selection boxes on each place mat for an elegant party favour they can savour later on.

Dare to go beyond traditional festive desserts? Scatter a few of our dainty Dark Chocolate Salted Caramelised Almonds onto saucers, and invite your guests to enjoy them with an Affogato or an espresso at the end of their meal. Granted — these might not be the usual festive desserts — but if we’re going to break tradition, we might as well do it in style.

Discover the wonder of our chocolate imaginarium

Our enchanting 2024 Christmas collection was born in our chocolate imaginarium — a whimsical realm inspired by true stories. It’s where we perfect our festive recipes, push the boundaries of cacao, and add a sprinkle of Christmas joy to every single product.

In the imaginarium, tradition isn’t something to be rigidly adhered to, but rather an invitation to innovate. And we invite you to do the same.

From edible winter wonderlands to drinkable delights hanging on your tree, we’re here to show you that Christmas can be as adventurous as your imagination allows.

And if your imagination is anything like ours, this just might be the most magical Christmas yet…