FT Weekend: Debora Szpilman’s Festive Illustrations Light Up The Holidays

With Christmas on the horizon, it’s time to embrace the festive season with all its indulgence and joy. This week’s FT Weekend Magazine is here to guide you, offering 24 inspiring ways to make December unforgettable, no matter your mood — whether you're fully immersed in holiday cheer or still searching for your festive spark.

Debora Szpilman’s captivating illustrations bring this guide to life. Her work, featured prominently in this issue, is a feast for the eyes. Through her signature style, Debora captures the magic of the season, weaving together scenes of celebration and coziness. One illustration invites readers to peer into festive windows, where Santa hilariously struggles with tangled fairy lights, a man savors olive martinis and a lavish cheese board, and a woman is surrounded by champagne flutes as hands reach for a tray of decadent cookies. All this unfolds against a rich green backdrop, perfectly evoking the warmth and vibrancy of December.

Beyond the visuals, the magazine is packed with delights: Thermos cocktails for brisk winter walks, whiskey-spiked cookies for late-night indulgence, and caviar-buttered linguine that promises to elevate any Christmas gathering. Food writer Nigella Lawson reminds us that simplicity can be delicious, sharing her own festive favorites.

There’s also advice for creating the ultimate cheese board, tips on better party photography, and a winter solstice supper designed to uplift the darkest days. And if gifting has you stumped, the guide’s eclectic picks — from lobster wall hooks to underwater headphones — are sure to inspire.

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Luca Faloni Christmas Animation: Timeless Threads of Legacy