The holidays are a magical time of year, but for many of us, it’s just too darn busy and there never seems to be enough quality family time. Why not do things a little differently this year and head to the cottage for your Christmas or New Year’s celebrations? You’ll be sure to make amazing new memories and start a few new traditions of your own. Let’s have a look at a couple of ideas to make it memorable while saving your sanity:

  1. Plan long in advance

Unless there are just a few of you going and your schedules are fairly clear over the holidays, you’ll need to do some careful planning and strategizing to get everyone together. You may need to work around other people’s work schedules, party plans and so on. Keep in mind that there may be a little hesitation for a few in your family who may not like the thought of changing up their holiday traditions, so be sure to allow for a lot of feedback and flexibility to make it a success! 

  • Make a packing list

Your holiday celebrations at the cottage may mean that you need to make an extra list this Christmas! There are things you’ll need to pack that don’t make it up over the summer months such as your decorations, gifts and gift bags, shovels, winter coats, boots, skis, snowshoes, skates, cozy blankets, and your DVDs of Elf, Christmas Vacation, and Home Alone of course.

  • Keeping everyone busy

Make those festive memories by enjoying your beautiful wintery wonderland; there’s so much to do to keep everyone busy! With enough snow (which there typically is!), you can go snowmobiling, skiing, snowshoeing and skating, as well as build an epic snow fort or snowman! Outdoor bonfires are always popular, especially when there are S’mores and hot chocolate involved. For those indoor days, you can make holiday crafts, homemade gifts, bake cookies, play games, catch up on some reading and cozy up with your favourite holiday drink watching movies.

  • Making it memorable

The holidays are about being with friends and loved ones, so a retreat to your cottage might be just the ticket to get in that quality time you’ve been missing. Sure, it may be unlike other holidays you’ve had, but that’s what makes it so much more memorable. Sit back, relax, spread some cheer and even ring in a new year in your cottage this season – you’ll be glad you did!

Life in the Parry Sound and Muskoka region is truly magical year-round. If you have any concerns or questions about cottage ownership, or you’re looking to buy a home or cottage in the area, be sure to connect with Ares Law. We want your real estate transactions to be magical and stress-free, just like your holidays! Call on our top-notch legal team at 705-746-6444 to book an appointment whether you just happen to have a question needing a legal answer or you’re ready to become a local resident and want the inside scoop.