We're making our list and checking it twice – shopping list, that is – because let's face it, food is the most important part of the festive season.  And if you are feeling a little overwhelmed at the thought of all the cooking you are going to have to be doing come Christmas, you are going to love the new Christmas food collection at Avoca. Our favourite Irish food- and lifestyle emporium always go all out for the festive season, and we (shhh – don't tell on us!) are planning on taking full advantage. Avoca recently revealed how, this year, their team of talented bakers and chefs will hand make thousands of Christmas puddings and Christmas cakes – all part of their quest to make the festive season all that little bit easier for you and me. As for everyone's festive favourite, the mince pie, the retailer revealed it will hand-make a staggering 90,000 of these – all made with almond pastry and Avoca's classic mincemeat – and taste like Christmas on a plate. And never mind just the cakes and puddings, ladies, we are talking mustard glaced ham, patés, gravy and the most delicious cranberry and apricot stuffing we have ever tasted. oh; and don't forget their famous creamy mash, brussels sprouts with pancetta and chestnuts, root vegetables and braised red cabbage – all ready for warming. Want to hear our favourites? How does Avoca's Sparkling Chocolate Bomb sound? Or their famous Chocolate Yule Log? As for the main meal, we are for sure planning on picking up the Brussels Sprouts with Pancetta & Chestnuts and their oh-so tasty Maple & Sesame Roast Root Vegetables. And if you are expecting some vegetarian visitors this holiday season, we think they are going to go ga-ga for the Lentil and Nut Loaf. In other words; Christmas – only better and all wrapped up. Sounds good? Yes, we know. Time to take the stress out of Christmas, we think – and make time for all those other things Christmas should be full of; like putting your feet up, playing board games and generally just enjoying quality moments with your family and friends. And when it comes to anything from the (free range) turkey to the Christmas ham, you can order these in your local Avoca store for collection. And even better? All the retailers stores across the country will be stocking the full range of Christmas products in the run-up to Christmas, giving you a hand, whether you are hosting or being a guest.   For more information on AVOCA’s Christmas Feast offerings, visit avoca.com *The handmade AVOCA paperchains will be available to buy across all stores as a charity initiative, all proceeds will go to a local charity of each store’s choosing.