For many families, Christmas really begins the day before. There are … days until Christmas Eve — 24 December — the day of last-minute wrapping, carol services, fresh pyjamas, and a house that smells of something good in the oven.

Christmas Eve always sits exactly one day ahead of the main event, so this countdown runs one day keener than the days until Christmas figure (… today). Think of it as the deadline that matters: presents bought, cards posted and food in the fridge all need to be true by the time this count reaches zero, because the day after it is not for errands.

The evening itself carries the best small traditions of the season. Stockings are hung where Santa can find them. A mince pie and a drink are left by the fireplace, with a carrot outside for the reindeer. Some families open one present, some read a story, and almost everybody sends children to bed a little earlier than usual — where the final, most exciting sleep of the countdown happens.

When this counter reaches zero, enjoy it: the waiting is over and the only remaining countdown is the tick of the clock towards midnight — which our live timer will happily show you, second by second.