This page describes the cookies and similar storage technologies that may be used when you visit HowManyDaysUntilChristmas.org, what they do, and how to manage them. It is part of, and should be read together with, the privacy policy.
What cookies are
A cookie is a small text file that a website asks your browser to store on your device. Cookies let services recognise your browser across page loads, save preferences, and measure traffic. The site sets no cookies of its own; the analytics cookies described below are set through Google Analytics.
Categories of cookies used
1. Strictly necessary
The countdown itself does not require cookies. The page works without storing anything on your device. No "essential" or login cookies are set.
2. Analytics
Google Analytics 4 sets cookies to count visits, distinguish unique browsers, and group page views into sessions. Typical cookie names include _ga and identifiers prefixed with _ga_ (followed by the measurement ID), each lasting up to about two years. These cookies do not contain your name or any directly identifying personal information.
Manage analytics cookies by:
- blocking third-party cookies in your browser settings;
- installing the Google Analytics opt-out browser add-on;
- using a privacy-focused browser or extension that filters analytics scripts.
3. Advertising
The site does not currently show ads and sets no advertising cookies. If that changes, this page will be updated first.
4. Local storage and similar technologies
Beyond traditional cookies, browsers offer storage areas such as localStorage, sessionStorage, and IndexedDB. The only one this site uses itself is localStorage on the Christmas break countdown, to remember the last-day date you enter (key hmdc-break-last). It stays in your browser, is never sent to the site, and can be removed by clearing site data.
How to manage cookies in your browser
Every modern browser lets you view, block, and delete cookies. Standard locations:
- Chrome — Settings → Privacy and security → Cookies and other site data.
- Edge — Settings → Cookies and site permissions → Manage and delete cookies and site data.
- Firefox — Settings → Privacy & Security → Cookies and Site Data.
- Safari (macOS) — Safari menu → Settings → Privacy.
- Safari (iOS) — Settings app → Apps → Safari → Advanced → Block All Cookies.
Blocking all cookies generally has no effect on the countdown itself but will stop the analytics described above.
Do Not Track and Global Privacy Control
The site does not respond differently to "Do Not Track" headers because the standard was never finalised. The site does not sell or share personal information for advertising, so there is no advertising data for a Global Privacy Control signal to opt out of.
Changes to this policy
If the cookies in use change — for example, because a service is added or removed — this page will be updated and the "Last updated" date at the top will be revised.
Questions
For any cookie-related question, email [email protected].
Last reviewed on October 4, 2026.
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