Christmas is the most wonderful time of the year. But with interstate family arriving, expectations soaring and tempers flaring, it can also be the most stressful time of the year. Here are a few ways you can ensure that the Christmas feast unites everyone at the table, making memories of laughter and festive cheer.

Seasonal ingredients

Take advantage of the incredible seasonal offerings this time of year and incorporate fruits like pears and root vegetables like Heirloom Beetroots into fresh and sustainable salads. Add candied walnuts to balance the savouriness of the dish and for some added crunch factor!

Offer options

When hosting a feast, people’s dietary requirements are always something to keep in mind. Overcome this potential issue by offering delicious seafood options for pescatarians, vegetarian salads and plenty of mixed greens, and fresh fruit platters as a gluten-free and dairy-free dessert option. By preparing a few different options, you can accommodate everyone, and no one will feel like they missed out!

Let someone else take care of the whole feast

Does sourcing ingredients, cooking your own Christmas feast and providing menu options feel like a lot of work for what is supposed to be a relaxing day? Let someone else take care of the cooking and clean up on Christmas Day and celebrate at Novotel Canberra! The First Edition Restaurant and Bar is putting on a Traditional Christmas Seafood Buffet where you can experience genuine, honest cooking, without any of the fuss. Enjoy 3 courses of locally sourced fresh produce and 2 hours of bottomless house drinks, including house beer, wine, orange juice, soft drink and sparkling water. Parents and grandparents can kick back and enjoy while Santa visits, bringing presents for good boys and girls (aged under 10 years).

Plus, if you don’t have room at home to host your entire extended family, or want some time away from the chaos, Novotel Canberra is offering an exclusive accommodation rate for stays over Christmas of $109 per night with a late checkout at 2 pm (max 2 nights).

You worry about the wishlist, and let Novotel Canberra take care of everything else, from accommodation to cooking!

First Edition is centrally located at Level 1, 65 Northbourne Avenue, with easy access via the new Light Rail City terminal directly opposite or limited parking onsite.

For further information, please visit www.firsteditioncanberra.com.au/whats-on or call 02 6245 5019.

Share your Merry Novotel Canberra experience: @firsteditioncanberra #firsteditioncanberra

How to create the best Christmas Feast