Even though you aren't home for the holidays yet, you can get yourself into the holiday spirit! Plus, what better way to de-stress (or procrastinate?) before finals week than setting up your very own Christmas tree, jamming to your favorite carols, and watching "Elf" with your squad? Here are a few easy ways to decorate the tiny little room you call yours for the holidays!
Get a Tree
What’s Christmas without a tree? You and your friends can go on a Target adventure to find the perfect tree. Whether mini or full size, traditional green or sophisticated white, every dorm needs their own "Charlie Brown Christmas" tree. Plus, it makes for a great bonding experience when you get back and have to decorate it. Just remember to check with your residence hall about whether or not you can have lights. Oh, and don’t forget a tree topper!
Window Clings
Dress up your window with some festive window clings. Not only will they make you happy, but those who pass by will automatically feel the festivity, and they’re super cheap. Also, many window clings can adhere to other surfaces and can double as door or wall decorations. Score!
Paper Snowflakes
Break out the computer paper and scissors and take a trip down memory lane to make some paper snowflakes. These are super simple and can be hung on walls, windows, or from ceilings with a little bit of tape. If you want to get super creative, try adding glitter to the paper to really make them look like snow!
Air Freshener
Most dorm buildings don’t allow the use of candles, but that doesn’t mean you can’t make it smell like the holidays in your room. Run to your local supermarket or Target for a plug-in air freshener and pick out a festive holiday scent of your choice. There are even solid air fresheners, or ones crafted specially to put inside your fake tree to make it smell real.
Stockings
While you’re out getting a tree, don’t forget to get some stockings for you and your roommate(s)! Whether you want to go with a traditional red stocking you can personalize, a novelty stocking with your favorite character, or a do-it-yourself stocking kit from your local craft store, these will no doubt bring the cheer to your room. Plus, if you’re exchanging gifts, everyone can put each others presents in the stockings to make for easy exchanges!
Banners and Garlands
An easy craft project or a quick trip to the store will certainly get you an awesome banner or garland to liven up your dorm. You can break out the construction paper and glue to make a traditional paper garland, go to the local garden store for a real garland, or stop by Five Below or Target for a festive holiday banner!
Music
So this technically isn’t decorating, but, what's more, festive than some carols? Put on your local Christmas station or check out Spotify’s awesome curated Christmas playlist. Or, if you really want to procrastinate from your finals, take some time to make your own!
It's really quite simple to make your dorm feel like a holiday wonderland! And remember, in just a few weeks, you'll be home celebrating with your family! But for now, get back to studying for those finals!