12 Days of Holiday Cheer

With all the hustle and bustle that comes with the holidays, it can sometimes be hard to get into the spirit of the season. Running from one store to another and checking items of the list isn't much of a way to celebrate the meaning of the holidays. So to truly enjoy this season of giving and love, we've got 12 simple ideas to bring you some holiday cheer.


Elf on the Shelf

For children, Christmas is the most magical and special time of year. Spread the joy and wonder this season with an Elf on the Shelf. The popular toy acts as a "spy" for Santa in your home, and he will report back to the North Pole to let him know if the kids have been naughty or nice. Many elves get up to trouble and move around each night so they can keep an eye on everything going on.
If you're worried about what your elf may get up to, never fear! There is plenty of evidence around, and you can check out hundreds of things that may attract your elf's interest.

Hang Holiday Lights

There's just something magical about holiday lights at night. Whether you've got a few strands out on your porch or you turn your whole yard into a winter wonderland, holiday light can spread cheer to your family and your neighbors.
If you're unable to hang your own, there are a number of fabulous displays in and around Atlanta. Some of the largest can be found at the Atlanta Botanical Gardens and at Callaway Gardens, and there are plenty more displays in metro Atlanta counties, and you may even find great displays just around your neighborhood!

Give Back 

It's the season of giving, and it is so important to share and help others during the holidays. Whether you adopt a child and buy from their wish list, donate toys to a local or national organization, or bring gifts to a local nursing home, consider others during this time. You can also write letters to our military members over seas, send messages to children in hospitals, or even just pay it forward in the drive-thru for a nice surprise for someone else.

Christmas Movie Night

"The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear" - Elf
Elf has become a classic Christmas film, and there are plenty of others out there for a cozy movie night in with the family! From Tim Allen's "A Santa Claus" to the original claymation "Rudolph the Rednosed Reindeer" and the classic musical "White Christmas," there is something out there for all ages, and many of these movies are on several streaming services, just in time for the season.

Gingerbread Houses

What's more exciting than a house made of candy? Making it with your family! Gingerbread houses are a great and fun way to unleash your holiday creativity and create a Christmas confection. There are plenty of kits out there at just about every grocery store, and if you're feeling ambitious, you can always bake your own and fill your home with the warm scent of fresh gingerbread. Go elaborate or colorful - either way it's a fun activity to do with your loved ones, and afterward you'll have a magnificent centerpiece!

Bake Cookies

After baking gingerbread, you can continue creating holiday cheer in the kitchen with a variety of cookies. Roll out some dough, cut some fun holiday shapes, bake, and decorate! If sugar cookies aren't your thing, there are plenty of other holiday-themed recipes out there. And once you're done, you can have a cookie swap with your neighbors and friends, or bring in some delicious treats to the office to spread the love!

Secret Santa

If you're having a holiday party or want to bring some cheer to the office, consider doing a Secret Santa. Everyone can draw a name and get one present, or you can spread out the excitement with little treats over several days. For a twist, have everyone leave hints or notes and see if everyone can guess their Secret Santa at the end!

Feed the Reindeer

Santa needs his cookies but his reindeer could use a snack too! Word on the street is they love carrots, oats, and raisins, and don't mind a few chocolate chips too if you're feeling generous.

See a local play or recital

There are a number of big holidays shows and concerts going on in the city, but consider visiting your local theater this holiday season. Many will put on holiday-themed shows, and it's a great way to support these up-and-coming stars and meet others in your community! Check out your local theater or performance venue to see if a local theater company, dance or musical group is performing.

Make an ornament 

Get out the craft gear! Popsicle sticks, pipe cleaners, pom-poms and tissue paper - whatever you've got on hand, you can turn it into a masterpiece! Let your kids' imagination run wild with whatever you have, and don't be afraid to get creative. You can create ornaments out of just about anything, including cookie cutters, gingerbread, and even popcorn or construction paper. If you want to share your creations, gift some to your neighbors, or propose an ornament swap!

Send Christmas Cards 

Who doesn't love mail? Sending out holiday cards is a great way to spread joy and show someone you are thinking of them during this time of year! There are plenty of templates available online that will print and deliver to your house, or if you're not looking to send them through regular mail, you can always send an e-Greeting!

Homemade Hot Chocolate

Settle in on those cold winter nights to a cup of homemade hot chocolate! With marshmallows or whipped cream, with milk or with water, there's just something special about enjoying a warm cup of cocoa that didn't come out of a pouch. Check here for some recipes, and settle down for a Christmas movie with your family and friends!

Wishing you a joyous holiday season!

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