As much as the holidays are exciting, between shopping and finals they also have the ability to become stressful. However these #things are sure to get you in the Christmas spirit this December.

1. Red Starbucks cups.

Even though the red Starbucks cup has caused some (illogical) controversy this holiday season, seeing them never ceases to make you feel slightly closer to Christmas. When peppermint mocha comes back to the Starbucks menu, you know that it’s time to start thinking about the best time of year.

2. Snow.

The first snow always makes the holiday season feel incredibly real. Maybe it’s the new fallen snow, or the way the snow glistens in the trees, but for whatever reason, it makes the entire town seem like a winter wonderland. Driving and seeing the lights glisten on the snow makes your entire world feel like a snow globe, which is an amazing feeling. There’s nothing better then snow on Christmas, and seeing it for the first time reminds you of this.

3. Christmas trees.

Decorating a Christmas tree always brings out the holiday spirit. Having a Christmas tree gives the house not only a sense of elegance, but also a true Christmas feeling. Hanging ornaments in itself can make the holidays feel like they’re coming, but just having or seeing a tree also accomplishes this.

4. Holiday movie specials.

ABC Family really hits this on the head every year with the 25 Days of Christmas, but really any Christmas movie will bring out the Christmas feeling. Whether it be "Merry Christmas Charlie Brown" or "Elf," these timeless classics enjoyed with a nice cup of hot cocoa or cider will not only warm your heart but get you excited for the next month.

5. Receiving holiday cards.

It’s always nice to receive mail, but there’s something special about receiving a holiday card. Seeing families and friends dressed nice for the holidays is always heartwarming, and getting a card in general is always a nice gesture. Holiday memos are a great way to stay in touch with others and see how their year went. What isn’t to love?

6. Baking Christmas cookies.

Even if you aren’t a great baker, Christmas cookies seem to somehow always turn out well. It could be the massive amount of decorations and frosting that are put on each of them, but regardless they’re always a lot of fun. What better way to get in the holiday spirit than to make decorated snowflakes and Christmas trees that are also edible?

7. Christmas music.

Although it may be debated when it is appropriate to listen to Christmas music (see here: http://www.go90.com/m/lQKgU1kvM6E) when it is time for it, it’ll always make it feel like Christmas. Listening to "All I Want for Christmas Is You" can make December feel ten times more magical especially when it’s the Justin Bieber and Mariah Carey collaboration (a true hidden gem). And if this is combined with any of the other holiday activities, you’ll really feel like Christmas time is upon you.