09 Jan 2026

One week, malls adorned with red decorations and baubles are a sight to behold, featuring Christmas jumpers folded neatly beside novelty socks. The next week, the sparkle is gone, replaced by orderly displays of grey trousers, white shirts, school shoes, and navy blazers.

Just weeks after shopping for Christmas ornaments, lights, and holiday attire, families are filling store aisles once again, this time for school uniforms, textbooks, and stationery. This swift transition is a familiar change, as the end of the festive holiday season blends seamlessly into back-to-school preparations.

“In December, it is all about celebrations,” said Gaborone resident Ms. Kitso Chepete while browsing a uniform shop.

“But once the holidays are over, reality sets in; children need uniforms that fit, books for the new term, and daily supplies.”

Retailers report a noticeable shift in buying habits immediately after Christmas. Shop windows that once glittered with ornaments and festive decorations now proudly display backpacks, notebooks, and school shoes, marking the official arrival of the back-to-school season.

Ms Sibochiwe Ningi, branch manager at West Gate Mall’s Pep Stores, noted that the change was expected: “It becomes a different season that has to be embraced right after Christmas and New Year celebrations.” 

She added that the demand for school-related items rises sharply during this period, as many children transition from preschool to primary and junior secondary to high school.

Pep Stores promptly removes Christmas decorations after the festive season, making way for back-to-school merchandise—a practice they describe as standard. Within two weeks, preparations for Valentine’s merchandise will begin.

“We prominently display seasonal merchandise in the front of the store to respond quickly to customer demand,” Ms Ningi explained.

“Parents appreciate the convenience of easily locating what they need, contributing to increased sales.”

The shopping mood shifts as well; December is all about browsing and gift-buying, while January brings lists, sizes, and practicality.

“Parents measure sleeves with a practiced eye, and children try shoes for comfort rather than style,” Ms. Ningi added.

However, some parents find the timing tight. Ms Chawa Nfila expressed that balancing post-holiday budgets with ensuring children are ready for school can be challenging.

“I find it easier to manage costs by reusing last year’s supplies, handing down uniforms between siblings, and mainly buying essentials like socks,” she shared.

Students, too, acknowledge the shift from holiday excitement to school readiness.

Twelve-year-old Anaya Kgotla, clutching a new backpack, said, “while the excitement of gifts and gatherings fades, choosing a new uniform or fresh set of books brings a different kind of anticipation. It makes it feel like a new beginning, even though school is work; it is nice to start with new things.”

His twin sister, Rashidah, echoed similar sentiments,“I am mostly excited about choosing a new backpack,” she said, emphasising that new school wear ignites excitement and signals a fresh start. 

The visual changes in stores serve as a reminder that early mornings and homework are just around the corner, reflecting the mental reset many experience as the new term approaches.

Another customer, Ms Lorraine Dire, stated that school preparations extend beyond shopping. 

“Parents are re-establishing routines: setting bedtimes, organising study spaces, and helping children smoothly transition from holiday mode to classroom focus,” she noted.

“School fees, uniforms, lunch boxes, and transport arrangements all become a reality at this time,” Ms Dire remarked, adding that while the holiday sparkle may be shelved for another year, the move toward back-to-school season carries a different kind of optimism.

“It is less about glitter and more about possibilities: new lessons, new friendships, and new routines,” she said, recognising that the transition serves as a gentle reminder that seasons change quickly, yet each presents opportunities to prepare and reset.BOPA