This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at BU chapter.

For college students, the holiday season can be very stressful and go by all too quickly because of final exam week. So, here are a few ways to get in the holiday spirit as early as you can so that you don’t miss out on the festivities!

1. Buy a small artificial tree for your room

Target sells many different sized christmas trees for as low as $3! They are really easy to decorate and make all the difference in your dorm room.

2. Go ice skating

If your school has a hockey team then they likely allow recreational skating in the rink! This is a super fun activity to do with your friends and it will usually be under $10 per person.

3. Build gingerbread houses

You can find gingerbread house sets at many local grocery stores, Target, and Amazon. This is a great activity to do with your friends when it’s too cold to go outside or you just want to spend a night in.

4. Buy hot cocoa

This is easiest way to get in the holiday spirit and you can do it alone or with friends. No matter which holidays you celebrate in December, you can enjoy this seasonal favorite!

5. Hang lights in your room

Hanging up holiday lights in your room will give it a cozy feel and add to the ambiance of the season. I recommend Amazon for these because they carry a wide variety at affordable price points.

6. Christmas air freshener (if your residence hall does not allow candles)

My favorite part about the holiday season used to be the fun scented candles; unfortunately, though, my school’s residence halls prohibit candles, so I had to find alternatives. Luckily, Target carries many air fresheners that have the same effect!

7. Make the perfect Christmas playlist

This one can be time consuming but it’s worth it because it’s completely free! Another alternative is to listen to Spotify’s “Christmas Hits” playlist!

8. Watch Christmas Movies

This Winter, Netflix is featuring over 40 holiday films including some new originals. This is the perfect opportunity to have a cozy night in with your friends!

9. Walk around the nearest neighborhood to see the lights

You may not be home to help your family decorate your house, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy other people’s decorations!

10. Holiday Pillows

In college, your living space is very limited, so you have to get creative with holiday decorations. Affordable, festive pillows can be found at Target, Bed Bath & Beyond, or Home Goods.

I hope this list inspires you to get in the holiday spirit early this year and make the most of this magical season! It doesn’t require a large budget to spread holiday cheer and feel grateful for this season’s blessings!

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10 Ways to Get into the Holiday Spirit Early!