Is there an appetite for Christmas?

It seems that Christmas is coming despite a lack of the usual Christmas activity from the hospitality industry.  

With close to a month to go, hotels would normally be finalising the numbers for party places, covers for Christmas Day and the all important New Years Eve party.  However, with the current lockdown not finishing until 2nd December, and the new tiers yet to be agreed, there are no guarantees that Christmas celebrations can go ahead. 

£1 billion spent on Christmas 

Naturally, Christmas is big business for hotels, with over £1 billion spent nationwide on company celebrations and parties. Many Christmas party venues have long since cancelled their traditional party nights. The remainder, hoping for a big switch to festive dining, are judging whether they risk placing orders for the traditional Christmas dinner components, essential party hats and poppers.

Will Christmas be cancelled this year?

“It’s a balancing act. explains LDHA chair Ben Mayou, “We’re trying to keep options open for a traditional Christmas, but ultimately the decision may be out of our hands.  Our hotels and attractions have already proved their social distancing credentials so if we get the go-ahead we’ll be ready.”

An alternative Christmas

For families and friends the festive season may be the distraction they need, providing the opportunity to get together and celebrate after many months apart.  With many having missed out on their traditional summer holidays abroad, venues may see an increased demand for their Christmas packages as families seek to get that hotel break away. 

“Ultimately it will depend on the regulations, says Ben, “either families will decide it’s not realistic to travel, or we’ll get a rush of guests wanting to celebrate with their loved ones.” 

For attractions, the traditional Santa’s grottos may be on hold but there are some alternatives emerging.  In our region socially distanced Santa tea parties at the World of Beatrix Potter attraction are available through December and we are already seeing our experiences getting ready for 2021 with fantastic gift voucher offers. 

“The festive season is usually our busiest time of the year, explains Ben, it might be quieter this December but it will be no less challenging!”  

LDHA Voice is a collection of independent tourist and hospitality businesses in the Lake District and Cumbria.   Collectively working together to adapt, support and lead important conversations with local and national authorities on topical challenges and opportunities.