Five ways to catch up with friends during that awkward period between Christmas and New Year’s
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No one knows what day it is. Time doesn’t exist. Margaritas are acceptable (and delicious) at 9 am.
Twixmas (the hazy period between Christmas and New Year) is here – and with it comes the comfort of knowing you have no responsibilities; no cares and the whole city can take a collective deep breath as it prepares itself for 2026.
But…what if you want to use your freedom to have some long-overdue catch-ups with friends before life goes back to its chaotic normalcy?
Here are five suggestions for things to do in Canberra during that awkward period between Christmas and New Year’s – if you even care what day it is.
Have a post-Christmas picnic
For this, minimal effort is required, making it the perfect catch-up idea. Simply load a basket or hamper full of Christmas leftovers, chuck a bottle of bubbles in your esky, and choose from one of Canberra’s many, stunning picnic locations. You don’t even need to change your outfit (although pants are recommended for this one).
Carve out time for a walk and talk
For those a little more motivated (or trying to make more room for fruit cake), a walk is an easy and time-honoured tradition when it comes to catching up with friends. Free, fun, and a great way to get the heart rate up – and that’s just from gossiping – here are 13 suggestions for walking trails you can tackle.
Grab a bite to eat (that’s not three-day-old Christmas ham)
Canberra might be sleepy, but it’s not (completely) shut down – in fact, there are plenty of places still open to grab a bite to eat or something cold to drink. Here’s our handy guide to where you can get a coffee or a glass of wine with your friends this Twixmas. Just make sure to double-check the holiday opening hours!
Go explore the city
One of the best things about living in Canberra is that many of the cultural institutions are on our doorstep – and most are open between Christmas and New Year’s, so you have no excuse to miss seeing some of the blockbuster exhibitions happening. From Hallyu! The Korean Wave at the National Museum of Australia to Super Kaylene Whiskey at the National Portrait Gallery, the best part is that you can enjoy them with fewer crowds.
Need even more excuses to get out and about? Here are five reasons why you should stay in Canberra this summer, from things to do lakeside to all of our natural wonders.
Book a movie date
Look, it’s been a long year, so if you want to decompress in a dark room, we wouldn’t blame you. Luckily, there have been some great blockbusters that hit our screens on Boxing Day, so you have the perfect excuse to book a movie date for a more chilled catch-up. You might be sitting in silence, but it still counts as effort. Right?
