This is my basic list. I like to spread the effort out so it starts in September but obviously quite achievable in a lot less time by less lazy people.
September- October:
Gift shopping
Clear out and replenish store cupboard
Buy extras of bin bags, tin foil, parchment, toilet roll, cleaning supplies, hand soap, kitchen roll - spread cost over October/November weekly shopping.
Organise diary for parties/entertaining.
Book chimney sweep
November:
Organise freezer. Eat up older stuff. Make space for Christmas food. Batch cook meals for entertaining and freeze.
Write and stamp cards.
Check, and wash/mend linens, cutlery, glassware, China, serving dishes, baking trays.
Book Christmas appointments.
Begin wrapping
Sort out Christmas jumpers
Sort out what we’re wearing on Christmas Day.
Finish gift shopping
Stock up on fuel
Buy non-perishable Christmas food spreading cost across weekly shopping.
Deep clean the living areas
Attempt to declutter playroom and dc’s toys.
Declutter and donate
December
Decorate
Do as little shopping as you can get away with and enjoy cosy days and nights at home.
Cleaning focus on bathrooms, guest rooms, fridge, oven.
Wash guest bedding, towels etc
Make beds
Put together a box of scissors, screwdriver, batteries under the tree for Christmas morning.