Let’s be honest – between work deadlines, school concerts, and that mountain of laundry that somehow keeps growing, finding your “Christmas spirit” can feel like just another item on your never-ending to-do list. But here’s the thing: sometimes you need to fake it ’til you make it, mama!

The Guardian recently asked their staff for their secret weapons to coax out that festive feeling when it’s playing hard to get. And honestly? Their answers are surprisingly doable – even for those of us running on three hours of sleep and yesterday’s reheated coffee.

The Classic Comfort Zone

First up, the tried-and-true trinity: tree, lights, and tunes. Yes, we know untangling those lights makes you question all your life choices. But there’s something magical about that first moment when you plug them in and your living room transforms into a winter wonderland (even if there are still Goldfish crackers crushed into your carpet).

Pro tip: Let the kids decorate the bottom half of the tree while you handle the breakables up top. It won’t be Pinterest-perfect, but those crooked ornaments will be the ones you remember in 20 years.

The Gift Wrap Game-Changer

Here’s a brilliant hack: wrap what you’ve already bought. You don’t need to wait until December 23rd at midnight to tackle everything at once. Got that gift for your sister-in-law sitting in your closet? Wrap it now! There’s something therapeutic about folding those crisp corners and tying that ribbon – it’s like a five-minute meditation session with scotch tape.

Taste the Season

Sometimes Christmas spirit enters through your taste buds. Whether it’s your mom’s sugar cookies, that peppermint mocha you only allow yourself in December, or yes, even eggnog (love it or hate it, it screams holidays), treating yourself to something festive can flip that holiday switch instantly.

One Guardian writer mentioned her family’s traditional fish pie – and while that might not be everyone’s cup of tea, we all have that one food that takes us straight back to childhood Christmases. What’s yours?

Lace Up and Let Go

Ice skating might seem like a big production when you’re already exhausted, but hear us out. It’s one of those activities that forces you to be present – you literally can’t scroll through your phone while trying not to fall on your behind. Plus, watching your kids wobble around like baby giraffes? Pure joy.

Check out Nibco Water & Ice Park in nearby Elkhart for a festive outdoor skating experience that’s perfect for the whole family!

Screen Time That Actually Helps

Finally, give yourself permission to plop down on the couch with your favorite Christmas movie. And here’s the best part – it doesn’t have to be a “classic.” Maybe Die Hard is your holiday jam, or perhaps Love Actually makes you ugly cry in the best way. Whatever gets you in the mood, own it.

Your Turn, Elkhart County!

What’s your secret weapon for finding that festive feeling? Is it driving through the Linton’s Enchanted Gardens light display? Making your grandmother’s fudge recipe? Or maybe it’s simply sitting in your car for five extra minutes in the school pickup line, listening to Mariah Carey belt out what she wants for Christmas?

Whatever works for you, remember: Christmas spirit doesn’t have to be perfect. Sometimes it’s found in the chaos, in the imperfect moments, in the trying. And sometimes, it’s found in simply giving yourself permission to feel however you feel – even if that means your Christmas spirit doesn’t fully kick in until December 24th.

Keep it festive (or at least fake it), The Zach Attack

What gets YOU in the holiday spirit? Share your tricks with us on the Froggy 102.7 Facebook page – we’d love to hear what works for our amazing listeners!

Source: “The Guardian: How to find your Christmas spirit”

Originally posted on December 3rd, 2024