It can be challenging to feel Christmas cheer as papers, exams and projects stack up, especially when you’re not at home. But don’t neglect the merry season while it’s here!

 

Here are a few ideas that are sure to get you in the holiday spirit.

 

Decorate your dorm room

 

Your room is your space, so make it so! Nothing warms up a room more than a few string lights and a Christmas tree. Maybe even play some Christmas tunes while you brighten your room and hang ornaments. Target has mini Christmas trees for eight dollars and string lights for four dollars. If you’re looking to be more economical, you could always make paper snowflakes with your friends.

 

 

 

Bake, Bake, Bake!

 

Whether or not you have a kitchen, there is always a way to fill your room with those fresh-baked, Christmas-y scents. Cookies are a good go-to. Even if you can’t bake them in your room, borrow a friend’s kitchen space, go to a friend’s home or buy already baked cookies and decorate them with icing! There is never an excuse to not have cookies.

 

 

Watch a Christmas movie

 

Christmas movies are a classic staple of the holiday season. They are full of joy, often humor and warm feelings. Some of the classic must-sees include: A Christmas Story, It’s A Wonderful Life, A Christmas Carol, A Charlie Brown Christmas, Santa Claus, Elf, Rudolph, Christmas Vacation, Home Alone... the list could go on and on.

 

 

 

Take a drive around town

 

Once the sun goes down and the local shops close, grab a few friends and head toward downtown Elizabethton. You’ll find a scene that is comparable to a Hallmark movie - storefronts and the streets are lit up and decorated for Christmas. Or take a cruise around the surrounding neighborhoods to enjoy the sight of the houses that are lit up and decorated. Blast some Christmas tunes and bring some hot chocolate for the ride, of course.  

 

 

 

Go Christmas shopping

 

Maybe Black Friday is your thing; maybe it’s your greatest nightmare. Regardless of when you go, Christmas shopping for your loved ones is bound to make it feel a little more like Christmas. Sometimes it’s stressful, but it wouldn’t be the Christmas season without it, amiright?