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The Ultimate Guide to a College Girl Christmas

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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at U Mass Amherst chapter.

As we grow up, Christmas is much different than it was when we were kids. While Christmas doesn’t always feel as magical as it did when we were younger, our college winter breaks are much longer than they once were. That means more time to celebrate the holidays! Below is my ultimate guide to celebrating, with lists of the best movies music, activities, diys, gifts, and more to make this the best Christmas (or any holiday) ever!

Treats

One of the best parts of the holidays are the snacks, drinks, and treats that come around this time of year! Some of my favorites include Starbucks holiday drinks, homemade hot chocolate, and baked goods. If you need further inspiration check out Pinterest! I’ve linked some of my favorite recipes below!

Homemade Hot Chocolate -This recipe is super customizable! Some of my favorite additives are whipped cream, peppermint extract, or crushed candy! So much better than the store bought powder!

Reindeer Cupcakes -These character cupcakes are so cute and such a fun way to spend an afternoon on winter break! The pretzels for antlers are such a cute touch.

Grinch Cookies These green cookies are super cute and would be great for watching The Grinch!

Another super fun option is grabbing a holiday drink from Starbucks or a local coffee shop!

Movies

There are so many fun holiday movies to watch during break while you wait to reunite with your friends! So grab your blankets and snuggle up with these awesome flicks!

If you’re in the mood for a funny Christmas movie some of my favorites are Elf, Home Alone, and National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation!

For a more classic vibe you could try Frosty The Snowman and the Christmas claymations!

Sabrina Carpenter also has a Christmas special coming out December 6th!

Music

One of the best ways to get in a cheerful holiday spirit is to listen to music from your childhood! You can listen to this music on your drive home from college, while baking, or when hanging out with friends!

Apple Music and Spotify have countless playlists but I’ve listed some of my favorite songs to add to your que!

“Tis the Damn Season”-Taylor Swift. Such a great song, just maybe don’t listen if you want to avoid seeing your ex over break!

“Last Christmas”-Wham! Another classic Christmas tune with so many fun covers to listen to as well.

“Merry Christmas, Please Don’t Call”-Bleachers. Jack Antonoff really pulls at the heartstrings with this one; but its so so good.

“Santa Tell Me” -Ariana Grande. Miss Ariana slayed this song, I come back to it every year and it always puts me in the Christmas spirit!

Decorations

One of my favorite parts of the holidays is all the fun decorations there are! I’ve listed some of my favorite ideas for how to decorate this holiday season! Make sure to turn up the holiday soundtrack while you decorate.

DIY orange garlands are so inexpensive and easy to make, and oranges smell great when they’re dried!

Homemade gingerbread ornaments are so cute and festive!

Paper snowflakes are the ultimate childhood Christmas decorations! All you need is scissors and paper!

Wishlist

One of the best parts of the holidays are asking for things that you can’t afford as a broke college girl! Here’s some of my favorite ideas!

Pacsun Boxer Pants are so cute and cozy for the winter and can be dressed up or down!

UGG Tasman Slippers are so comfy and last for years! They come in so many colors as well.

YSL Libre Perfume smells so nice and is such a great gift idea!

If you do one or all of these activities make sure you post so all your friends can see while you’re home on break! Happy Holidays!

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Katherine Schaffer

U Mass Amherst '27

Katherine Schaffer is a sophomore Political Science and Journalism major at UMass Amherst. She is originally from Southern New Jersey and spends her summers at the Jersey shore. Her interests include politics, fashion, beauty, musical theater, and Philly sports!