Every collegiette knows that being away from home during the holidays can prove to be one of the hardest parts of venturing out on your own. From the embarrassing (my beloved stuffed snowman) to the elaborate (my family’s giant winter wonderland display complete with faux-snow) to the calorie-laden (double chocolate walnut fudge that makes Thanksgiving extra decadent), it’s undeniably difficult to put aside thoughts of our favorite holiday traditions in favor of studying for finals.Â
That’s why I’ve compiled the three best celebrity holiday traditions (complete with ideas as to how they can be incorporated in to dorm life) as a welcome distraction from all that studying. Enjoy and remember that you’ll be eating your favorite meals and putting up cherished holiday decorations in no time!
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An Ugly Holiday Sweater Party
Everyone’s favorite teenage witch Melissa Joan Hart throws an awesome ugly sweater holiday party for her friends and family every year. This fun wintertime tradition is super easy to replicate in the comfort of your dorm room—just head down to your nearest thrift shop for some crazy apparel (check out Matt Damon in his Santa sweater for inspiration) and bake some delicious holiday snacks!
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Holiday Cookies
Nothing tastes more like the holiday season than some delicious cookies. Living in a dorm it can be nearly impossible to whip up an elaborate multi-course holiday meal, but these baked treats prove to be the perfect finals study break—with the added bonus of a delicious snack to keep you nourished as you make flashcards and pour over study guides. Check out Neil Patrick Harris‘ (cause seriously, who doesn’t love him?) recipe for Ooey Gooey Bars courtesy of flavorwire.com.
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Make Your Own Holiday Card
While its hard to top the Kardashians, making your own holiday card is a quick and easy way to bring a little bit of winter cheer to your friends at school. Even though you may not have a confetti machine (but seriously, who does?) or professional make up and wardrobe consultants, websites such as smilebox.com have a ton of cute designs, many of which you can email or post to Facebook. Bringing this holiday tradition to school is a great way to make your friends and family back home miss you during the holiday season just a little bit less!