As someone who starts celebrating the Christmas season as soon as Halloween is over, here is how I brought this cheer into my college life so far!

I am going to be honest. I originally planned for this piece to be more about current on-campus happenings, but I think that just trying to curate some joy is better right now. The Christmas season has always been my favorite time of year and has brought me so much happiness in otherwise bleak times, so come along with me and experience some holiday cheer.

The first thing I do every year is listen to tons of Christmas music. As soon as the Christmas radio stations start in November, I only listen to the joyous lyrics of the great musicians that are Gene Autry, Bing Crosby, Andy Williams, and, of course, Mariah Carey. This year, I have also been listening to Jimmy Fallon’s new Christmas album (yes, this actually exists) for some spectacularly hilarious and strange merriment. If you need to put some pep in your step while on your way to class, put on some cheery Christmas tunes. Also, if you have Apple Music like me, there are dozens of holiday playlists already curated by Apple Music that you can easily pop on. My favorite is the “Holiday Movie Hits” playlist.

Speaking of movies, turn on your favorite Christmas movie or Christmas special of your favorite TV show. My personal recommendation: National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation. If you are missing home or stressed out while studying, turn on Christmas Vacation and be immediately transported into Chevy Chase’s familial antics. I watch it at least three times every Christmas season. There was even one year where I swear, I watched it once a week from Halloween until Christmas.

If you spend every morning in line at Liz’s Place or Joe Coffee, grab some hot chocolate instead of your normal coffee drink every once in a while. I do not believe there is any sadness one can experience that is not at least slightly lessened by hot cocoa. I cannot attest to the quality of hot chocolate at Joe Coffee, but I do know that the offering at Liz’s Place is spectacular! Seriously, go grab a cup (preferably when it is no longer 70 degrees each day).

Finally, buy some decorations for your dorm! While I was home for fall break, I bought a tiny Buddy the Elf decoration that says lines from the movie when activated. Just looking at him makes me so happy, not to mention hearing Will Ferrell tell me that “The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear!” If you can get a tiny tree or wreath or other holiday decorations, do so. Even something small can make a difference, I promise.

I know all this stuff seems pretty simple, but if you do not normally start celebrating early, it could help this year. Drink some eggnog (non-alcoholic if under 21, please), eat some candy canes, decorate some gingerbread men with your friends, and just immerse yourself in some holiday magic. You have got this!

Happy holidays!

Tiny Buddy the Elf via Author

Christmas dog via Unsplash