The holidays are here! Time for holiday cheer and of course a little holiday magic. I knew that holiday magic was in the air a few weeks ago when I found the perfect set of wine glasses while browsing a local antique store. When I saw them, I was immediately transported back to Christmas 1986–or as my kids call it, the olden days. It was in that year that I was in the cast of A Christmas Carol. I played an angel and one of the children in the town, and being the tiniest cast member, had the good fortune to ride on Scrooge’s shoulder during the finale.
We probably learned close to 20 songs for the play, but my favorite song was The Holly and the Ivy. So when I happened upon this set of wine glasses inscribed with a line from one of my favorite Christmas songs from one of my most memorable Christmases, I knew that Santa had placed them there. Just for me. I rushed home, spruced them up, and immediately poured a celebratory libation. Enjoying these glasses with each holiday-inspired cocktail is just one of the many ways that I plan to add a sprinkle of magic to the holiday season. Simple yet satisfying.
Here are the top 5 simple ways to add a sprinkle of magic to your holiday.
1. Create a Christmas scene in each room
Add a touch of Christmas to each room by creating Christmas scenes on a small table, an empty corner, or even an empty wall. This is especially nice if you don’t decorate a Christmas tree. The different scenes in each room can still bring the joy of the season into your home, upgrading your normal, everyday decor. This year I decided to add lights to the fica tree in the corner of my bedroom. It really added a sprinkle of holiday magic to a corner that I often ignore.
2. Host a tree trimming party
Do you wish your house looked like those homes on Pinterest, but you aren’t that great at decorating or you just can’t find the time? Host a tree trimming party! This doesn’t have to be an extravagant party with tablecloths and formal invitations. Just a casual gathering of friends who are there to decorate, eat some food, and sing Christmas Carols. You can even make it an ugly Christmas sweater event. And to keep it really simple, order the food and drinks. Then all you have to do is decorate and enjoy your guests.
3. Plan a Progressive Holiday Party
Overwhelmed by the thought of hosting a big Christmas party? You’re probably not alone. But wouldn’t it still be nice to make the rounds and see your friends’ Christmas decorations and spend a little time with them during the holiday? Plan a progressive Christmas party. Each household agrees to make one appetizer and one signature Christmas drink to share with friends. The visit is short and sweet. You enjoy their holiday decorations, grab a quick snack, drop off gifts, and move on to the next friend’s home. This is a fun way to see your friends without the pressure of a big soiree, and if you go at night, you can enjoy the Christmas lights throughout your city while en route. Now this is some holiday magic you won’t forget!
4. Have a family holiday read aloud
Nothing adds a sprinkle of holiday magic like a reading of Twas the Night Before Christmas. Christmas is such a fun time for kids. Make it even more magical by reading their favorite story about the man with the bag aloud. Keep the book on display throughout the month of December, and then do a special read aloud on Christmas Eve. Trust me. You will treasure the memories of your kids all cozy in their PJs listening earnestly and wide-eyed for years to come. It’s also a great way to calm them down before the most exciting bedtime of the year. And yes, it’s okay to take a break from reading your copy of Meet Tess the Tooth Fairy. We’ll allow it.
5. Plan a candle lighting with your family
Need a quiet moment? Plan a candle lighting with your family. This can be done once or each evening during the holiday season. The tradition of lighting candles during the holiday and even throughout the year is common in many different religions and cultures. Lighting candles is also a good way to turn down the noise of the season and take a quiet moment to reflect. When I was a kid, my family would light candles on New Year’s Eve. Each of us would read something related to the season. We would have quiet moments of reflection, and then blow out the candles. I remember the soft glow of the candles reflected in everyone’s face and how peaceful our home felt for the rest of the evening, and this has become one of my most cherished moments with my family.
How do you add a sprinkle of magic to the holidays? We would love to hear from you. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram and share your favorite holiday memory or your favorite way to add a sprinkle of holiday magic. From our family at Tess the Tooth Fairy to yours, happy holidays.
💜Jenny
