OK, you've got 24 days (approximately 576 hours) before the big day and there's so much to get done! But don't panic. Take a deep breath and read our Christmas countdown calendar to help plan and prepare for the hectic weeks ahead.

December 1
You don't want any anxiety-producing last-minute surprises. Book your babysitter now for the days and weeks ahead.

December 2
Take a stab at tackling your shopping list today. But stay healthy and hydrated while you're at it. Stash a healthy snack and a small bottle of water in your purse before you leave.

December 3
Clean out the fridge and freezer to make room for holiday treats. Throw out anything that looks like it might have potentially harmful bacteria.

December 4
Get up early because today's the day to put up your Christmas lights. It's guaranteed to give you a bit of a workout and get you into the spirit of the season.

December 5
Enrol in a first aid or CPR course. Or at least download the tip sheets from the St. John Ambulance Canada website. They will give you invaluable information on being prepared for any emergency that could arise this season.

December 6
Reduce your stress levels by getting more holiday shopping done today.

December 7
This is a good day to check the batteries in your carbon monoxide detectors (and smoke alarms). You'll also want to make sure the devices are in good working order before you turn on the furnace or use the fireplace.

December 8
Winterize your car today. Get an oil change, tire rotation and have snow tires put on if you use them. Also, make sure you have blankets and a flashlight.

December 9
Bring some Christmas cookies and mulled wine to an elderly neighbour.

December 10
Get up early today and take the family to get the Christmas tree. But make sure to place it as far away as possible from heaters, stoves, fireplaces and other fire hazards.

December 11
Take a spiritual moment for yourself, whether that means a church service or a walk in the woods.
 

Page 1 of 2 – Discover a few festive activities you and your kids can take part in to make your home holiday-ready on page 2.

December 12
Get ahead of the game. Make some Christmas dishes this evening to freeze in advance of the big day. For example, try our Shortbread Stars.

December 13
Get out the Scrabble board or another favourite game this evening. You may not get another chance for quality family time with party obligations and visitors popping by over the next few weeks.

December 14
Your feet are feeling the effects of marathon shopping trips and standing-room-only cocktail parties. Soak your tired tootsies in a footbath and pamper them with peppermint foot cream.

December 15
Get a head start on the upcoming family dinner by polishing the silver. Use a homemade paste of baking soda and water. Rinse well and dry with a soft cloth to leave your heirlooms gleaming and ready to impress the in-laws.

December 16
Turn off the TV early tonight and get a good night's sleep.

December 17
Pick up a red, white or pink poinsettia today to brighten your home.

December 18
Put on some rockin' holiday tunes and dance away those shortbread cookies with your kids.

December 19
Have your brood make personalized place mats for the extended family to use at the big meal.

December 20
Decorate a gingerbread house with your kids.

December 21
Take your honey for a drive around the neighbourhood tonight to see the fabulous spirit-lifting Christmas lights.

December 22
Inject a little magic (not to mention some fresh air) into your schedule with a sleigh ride for the family.

December 23
Treat your brood by going skating or tobogganing. You may just have the entire rink or hill to yourselves today.

December 24
Squeeze in one last visit to the gym before the big day. (Bear in mind, though, that it might close early today.)

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