New Year 2026 without fuss: step-by-step shopping plan from December.

According to ТСН: To peacefully welcome the New Year 2026, it is important to prepare in advance. This will not only save time but also help buy everything you need at favorable prices before potential price increases in mid-December.

First wave of purchases (first-second week of December)

At the beginning of the month, from December 1 to December 15, you should focus on products that have a long shelf life. This is the perfect time to buy drinks: champagne, wine, strong alcohol, juices, and carbonated water. All these products should be stored in a dark, cool place.

Among them are also canned foods that will become the base for salads: green peas, corn, olives, pickled pineapples, and canned fish. Additionally, don't forget about dried fruits and candied fruits (apricots, prunes, raisins), sweets, and nuts (chocolate, candies, almonds, hazelnuts). Stock up on dry goods in advance: flour, sugar, oil, vinegar, and spices.

Some cheeses, especially hard and semi-hard ones like Parmesan, Cheddar, or Gouda, can be bought earlier. It is advisable to wrap them in parchment paper and store them in the refrigerator in the vegetable compartment.

To prepare for the holiday without extra stress, it is also important to buy non-food items. Buy gifts and packaging (paper, ribbons, cards) for them in advance, as well as household miscellaneous: batteries for garlands and toys, candles, matches, disposable tableware, cleaning supplies, and garbage bags.

What to buy in the third week of December

This period is suitable for buying meat and fish for the festive table. However, remember that fresh meat and fish cannot be stored long in a regular refrigerator. If you decide to buy them in advance, divide into portions and place them in the freezer. Only on December 29-30 can they be defrosted, marinated, and cooking can begin.

In the meantime, you can also prepare frozen semi-finished products: meat can be ground and formed into homemade dumplings, vareniki, or cutlets, and then immediately frozen. This is also a great time to buy ready-made frozen seafood, like shrimp or mussels.

At this stage, it is wise to buy vegetables that store well in bulk: potatoes, carrots, beets, onions, and garlic. Pre-purchased root vegetables will help avoid queues and price increases in the last week.

Only the freshest in the last week of December

Only a few types of products should be left for the last week to ensure maximum freshness. These are fresh meat and fish that you plan to cook for the holiday and that have not been frozen before. They should be purchased as close to the holiday as possible to avoid spoilage.

This period is also suitable for buying fresh herbs (parsley, dill, lettuce), delicate fresh vegetables and fruits (tomatoes, cucumbers, citrus fruits, bananas). Don’t forget about sausages and cured meats, fresh bread and pastries, mayonnaise, sour cream, and other fresh sauces, as well as milk and cream. These products should be the freshest on your table.

This systematic approach will turn preparation into a calm and pleasant process and allow you to welcome the New Year fully prepared.

By ensuring proper organization of purchases, you will be able not only to save right away but also to enjoy festive moments without extra hassle. Let the preparation become part of the festive atmosphere rather than a burden!