During our busy routines of work and studying for finals, sometimes we can forget about the holiday season. It’s no surprise that spending hours in the library and stressing over grades can make the month of December feel drab. Sometimes all you need is a little break from the serious stuff in your life and a change to get into the holiday mood with some holiday drinks, Christmas movies, and a little bit of cheery music to lighten you up. These are 12 things to should do this holiday season for your 12 days of Christmas to remind yourself of the joy of December and all that it has to offer.
1. Play Some Holiday Music
Just like Buddy the Elf said, the best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear. Even though there may not be snow on the ground, a sure way to make it feel like the holidays are here is to blast some of Mariah Carey's "All I Want For Christmas Is You," whether you’re in the car going to work or just sitting around by the fire.
2. Decorate The Christmas Tree
Christmas trees are a universal symbol that the holiday season has approached. By taking some time out of your busy schedule to go decorate a Christmas tree with your family, you’re not only putting yourself in the holiday mood but also making memories with the people you care about. Even if you are away at school and can’t be home for those traditions, make your own new ones! Get a potted tree for your dorm and make a tradition of decorating with your roommates and close friends.
3. Bake Holiday Goodies
From the Pillsbury cookies with little Santas on them to some homemade Pinterest-style cookies, baked goods can really create a cozy environment. Pumpkin pies and other seasonal treats only come around during this time of the year so you might as well take advantage of it!
4. Stop And Smell The Seasonal Coffees
Peppermint mocha, pumpkin spice, caramel brulee…all perfect drink combinations that practically taste like someone jammed Christmas in a cup. Even those who don’t like coffee can get in the holiday drink mood with some hot cocoa and bring back their inner child.
5. Christmas Movie Marathons!
There are so many classics, it’s hard to pick just one. Movies like the animated Rudolph’s, Tim Allen’s "The Santa Clause," or my personal favorite, "Elf," can turn even the dullest study day into a voyage back to your childhood December nights.
What better way to celebrate the season of joy than by bringing joy to others with scented candles and other holiday gifts? Just entering the mall and seeing all the Christmas window displays and Santa’s workshops will put you in a total Christmas-holic mood.
7. Go Ice Skating/Play Ice Hockey
Whether you are a boy or a girl, the icy weather can be fun for all. A nice trip to a frozen lake or a local ice rink can make you nostalgic and turn your angry feelings toward the cold weather into appreciation for it.
8. Get Silly In The Snow
Take a break from studying and get silly in the snow! Go sledding, have a snowball fight, and even build a snowman! Let the stress just melt away as you have a little fun.
9. See A Holiday Show
You can now see some of your favorite holiday movies on Broadway. "Elf: the Musical" or "A Christmas Carol" are entertaining ways to spend your chilly weekends off. And no one can forget Radio City’s Rockette Christmas show, a Christmas must-see.
10. Try Making DIY Decorations
They say that crafts can be therapeutic, especially when you have holiday stress. Paper snowflakes and homemade ornaments are a great way to calm yourself and make items with your family that you will cherish forever.
11. Drive Around Looking At The Decorations
Nothing says Christmas is coming like a house adorned with bright lights and inflatable reindeer. This holiday season take a ride with some friends or loved ones and you'll be surprised by how cozy the lights will make you feel. Some houses even do light shows with synchronized music to entertain those passing by.
12. Visit Rockefeller Center
For anyone in close proximity to New York City, I highly recommend a trip to Rockefeller Center where not only can you ice skate and grab something to eat, you can also see the beautiful and enormous holiday tree they put up. The bigger the tree, the bigger your holiday mood will be.
