It is the time of year where the air gets cold and the ugly sweaters resurface from the back of the closet. The Christmas decor has been strung up, and now stores everywhere have holiday tunes flowing from the speakers. But sometimes it is just not enough to really feel like the holidays have finally arrived, and there are lots of simple solutions for this problem.

If you do not switch on the Hallmark channel during December, is it even the holidays? Hallmark supplies holiday movies on repeat all day as part of their Countdown to Christmas special. So grab a blanket, change into some fuzzy pajamas and get ready for films that will keep you reaching for the Kleenex. Though some movies may be extremely cheesy, it is just not holiday time without them.

Another easy way to create your own winter wonderland is some holiday tunes! Grab your speakers, and turn on Mariah Carey’s “All I Want For Christmas Is You”, or bring out your inner Belieber with his holiday hit “Mistletoe.” There are also plenty of pre-made Christmas playlists on Pandora and Spotify that bring cheer to heart’s worldwide.

Baking is an essential part of preparing for festivities. The sticky countertops and the smell of peppermint cookies is something often found in kitchens during the holidays. Something as simple as making yourself some hot chocolate can be a great way to get into the spirit. Pull out the trusty cookie cutters and find the recipe for that special peppermint fudge.

Last but not least, go around to see holiday lights. Grab friends and family and take a drive around the neighborhood. Hobgood also hosts the Holiday Lights of Hope display from now until the 23rd, where all kids fourteen and under get in for free. The cost for people fifteen years or older is only $10, and you can look at the lights for as long as you want. There is no better way to get into the holiday spirit than looking at some beautiful light displays. Most importantly, keep your loved ones close to you this season and spread the cheer together.