When family and friends come together for the festive season, there’s the pleasure of adding trimmings to your table or home in anticipation of a great meal and, of course, an unspoken excitement for what you might find under the tree on Christmas morning. Whether you celebrate traditionally, or in true South African style, travel locally, further afield or simply stay put, you’re sure to find everything you need, and more, at Woolworths for a very merry Christmas.

Choose from an array of decorations in every hue—we’ve paired indigo with various shades of gold for a fresh new colour palette. Gold also looks fabulous combined with black and white, and we have a full range of options in this colour scheme that’s perfect for a contemporary Christmas. If you’re dreaming of more dulcet tones, the Frosted Fantasy collection offers shimmering festive décor in pale pastels. Add a burst of greenery with a fresh wreath, a mini potted Christmas tree, or a pretty string of twinkling lights, and you’re, literally, set.

It’s unlikely you’ll need to get the kids into the festive spirit, but you can add to the fun with an advent hat calendar, or a set of magical countdown crackers. Liven up the party with headdresses for the little ones- glitter ears, tinselled trees, Santa hats and silly glasses; and they’re sure to enjoy making their own crackers, or- for those with a little more patience- a DIY gingerbread house.

There’s plenty to satisfy a sweet tooth. If you’re not yet on the waffle rusk train, you soon will be and a refillable glass jar full of them—brushed with golden syrup while still warm, then sliced and dried—is just the thing. A Woolies biscuit tin always makes a good present, and don’t forget the tubes of chuckles, fudge selection, boxes of crème caramels, and jars of mint humbugs. A particularly worthy offering this year is the decadent, UTZ certified, single origin chocolate truffles that have been handmade by local chocolatier, De Villiers Chocolate, using high quality cocoa beans from Western Uganda.

If you’re more inclined for something savoury, a pink Himalayan salt slab will make a brilliant addition to a keen foodie’s kitchen, or a DIY mustard kit, or chipotle and paprika beer bread in an enamel tin. A wooden recipe box will hopefully ignite inspiration. And for a sophisticated gift, there’s an elegant olive oil and balsamic vinegar bottle set, containing locally produced, good quality extra virgin Favolosa olive oil from Morgenster- made from an olive variety exclusive to their farm.

If you’re after a special something for him or for her, the choices are endless. There are fragrances; pretty lingerie and beauty buys galore- pamper products including bath milks, lotions and potions will leave her feeling lovely, (and look out for additional beauty brands recently introduced at Woolies). Fashion accessories are always a hit too—what gal doesn’t need an extra handbag or pair of summer espadrilles? The fashion trends for the season include bold, colours, such as resort-ready cherry reds with pleats and ruffles that give the look a chic, retro feel; the LBD has been updated to include luxe satin and embroidery, with athletic details to keep it edgy; denim—fashion’s favourite multi-tasker—is all about the embellishments, featuring badging, embroidery, eyelets and slogans; and by combining statement metallic pieces with crisp white and neutrals you’ll add an instant party feel to your look.

Tickle his fancy with a beard oil and comb, or a Longmarket Barber gift set, containing all the things to leave him refreshed after a shave. From boxers to bowties, braai gloves and bicycle repair kits, find the ideal stocking filler (our stockings are produced by Township Fleva, who develops unemployed youth through skills training, education and access to health care). He’ll be keen to get the festivities flowing with a set of four fun tot glasses, or a hip flask duo.

If you’re really stuck for ideas, a Woolworths gift card is always a good bet, and if you’re simply avoiding the shops, don’t forget you can shop online at www.woolworths.co.za. Whatever the case, with Woolworths and a little imagination, you’re bound to have the perfect Christmas.