It’s early December, and Christmas might still feel like it’s just another item on the to-do list. Between work, family, and the stress of everything happening around us, it’s easy to see why the festive feeling gets pushed aside.

But Christmas is about the little things, the traditions we hold dear, and the joy we can create for ourselves. Here are practical, specific ways to find that Christmas spark, even if you’re not feeling it yet.

1. Start Small, Start Festive

A few small changes can work wonders for your mood:

• Put Christmas FM on in the background—the festive tunes will instantly transport you to childhood car rides and cozy family gatherings.
• Swap your usual coffee for something festive, like a spiced latte, peppermint mocha, or hot chocolate with whipped cream. If you’re at home, sprinkle cinnamon or nutmeg on top for an extra festive kick.
• Pick up a mulled wine kit at your local shop or make your own! Heat up some wine with cloves, cinnamon sticks, and orange slices—it’ll fill your house with the scent of Christmas.

2. Rediscover Irish Traditions

Dive into the magic of the season through our beloved Irish Christmas rituals:

• Watch the Late Late Toy Show, even if it’s delayed this year—it’s a rite of passage and a perfect way to relive childhood excitement.
• Take a frosty walk in the park or along your local streets. Many parks and trails are lit up for the season, and the crunch of frost underfoot feels like pure Christmas magic.
• Visit the Grafton Street lights or the light ceremony in your town. Bring a hot drink in a flask, and don’t forget to snap a photo under the twinkling glow.

3. Bring Christmas Home

Set the festive tone at home with easy, affordable touches:

• Light a Christmas-scented candle (pine, cinnamon, or mulled wine scents are great choices).
• Put on a cheesy Christmas jumper, even if you’re just working from home—it’s an instant mood booster.
• Start decorating! If the tree feels like too much, focus on one small corner. Add some fairy lights, hang a wreath, or place a festive centerpiece on your table.
• Bake something simple like gingerbread cookies or mince pies. Let the kids decorate them—it’s messy, but it’s fun!

4. Turn Christmas Shopping into a Joyful Adventure

Shopping doesn’t have to be a chore:

• Visit a local Christmas market, where you’ll find unique gifts, handmade crafts, and plenty of festive food and drink.
• Stop into smaller Irish shops or bookstores to find something truly heartfelt for someone special.
• Wrap gifts while watching a classic Christmas movie—add some Christmas FM tunes to the mix for extra nostalgia.

5. Create Little Moments of Joy

Sometimes, it’s about carving out a few minutes for yourself:

• Go for an evening walk to admire the Christmas lights in your neighborhood. Bonus points if you bring along a flask of hot chocolate or mulled wine.
• Watch clips from classic Christmas ads—whether it’s the Coca-Cola truck or the John Lewis tearjerkers.
• Grab a cozy blanket, put on The Snowman or another short Christmas film, and let yourself feel all the festive emotions.

6. Lean Into Togetherness

Christmas is about connection. Even if you’re busy, find small ways to bond with others:

• Attend your work Christmas party—even if it’s just a small lunch or coffee gathering. Laughing with colleagues can work wonders.
• Call a friend or family member to share a Christmas memory. If you’re not one for long chats, send them a festive card or message instead.
• Plan a family Christmas night: everyone picks one fun thing to do, like playing a board game, decorating cookies, or watching a favorite Christmas movie together.

Remember: Christmas isn’t about perfection—it’s about creating moments that feel magical, however small they might be. Turn on Christmas FM, grab a festive drink, and take it one step at a time. Before you know it, the spirit will find you.