This Holiday Bucket List is a collection of things to do, see, taste, and experience during the most wonderful time of the year!
Your Holiday Bucket List Is Here!
Happy Holidays! “The most wonderful time of the year” sounds like a promise that we could all use right now. Regardless of what you believe or how you celebrate the season, I’ve rounded up some ideas to keep joy at the center of this special time of year.
1. Take care of yourself.
The saying, “You can only take care of others once you take care of yourself” couldn’t be more true. Prioritizing your physical, emotional, and mental well-being this holiday season needs to take precedent. Whether it’s carving out time to unwind and relax, dedicating space for yoga and meditation, or connecting with family and friends, find ways to take care of yourself. You won’t regret it!
2. Bake cookies! No doubt you have a favorite cookie, nibble, or sweet treat that you look forward to each December, but if you’re looking for something new, try my Rosemary Shortbread Cookies with White Chocolate Cranberry Ganache or my Citrus and Spice Russian Tea Cakes.
3. Bring the outdoors in. Decorating with fresh pine branches, pinecones, and other natural elements is one of my favorite ways to decorate during the Winter. You can purchase greenery from most grocery stores or markets, or else get outside and find things that inspire you!
4. Learn about a new culture’s tradition. Whether it’s digging in to the cultural meaning and 7 Principles of Kwanza, understanding why a Menorah’s 9 branches are lit on each of the 8 nights of Hanukkah, or learning more about the religious and cultural traditions that come with Christmas, there’s value and wonder in understanding the root of another’s (or your own) traditions and beliefs during this magical season.
5. Gifting? Support local.
Now more than ever, small businesses need our support. Make it a point to give locally made gifts from the amazing makers in your area. Check out my roundup of my Favorite Small Businesses To Support This Holiday Season.
6. Listen to holiday tunes. Catch all the favorites with the playlist below! I’ve also been listening to the 2020 installment of A Minnesota Holiday. This annual charity album’s sales support Second Harvest Heartland. Pick up a copy at all Kowalski’s Market locations.
7. EAT APPS FOR DINNER! One of my favorite holiday traditions, creating a spread of appetizers to enjoy for supper is so much fun. Pick some of the classics, like Shrimp Cocktail or a festive crostini, or level things up a bit with some new recipes. My Caramelized Fennel and Onion Dip and my Homemade Lox Platter are sure-fire ways to impress. Check out more appetizer inspiration here.
8. Sip on a spritz. Even if it’s a smaller crew this year, making a delicious Spritz Bar adds a festive element to your glass of bubbles. Check out the details for how to make your own Build Your Own Spritz Bar.
9. Let's. Decorate.
If ever there were a year to add as much joy as humanly possible to your space: it’s this one. I’m taking things next level by adding cheer to almost every single room in my home. Whether it’s store bought, homemade, or even little handwritten reminders to see beauty and hope everywhere, find ways to brighten your home and your spirit this year.
10. Watch a classic holiday movie. Sure, there are the usual holiday movies that seem to be played on repeat this time of year, but instead: seek out a classic. It’s a Wonderful Life, Holiday Inn, White Christmas, or Miracle of 34th Street are all great options. Just be sure you watch the original first!
11. Donate to those in need. Whether it’s monetarily, through gently used goods, or with your time: find a cause to contribute to. Now more than ever, families in YOUR community need help. If you have the means to do so, please consider giving to those in need most this year.
12. Get outside. Whether it’s a chilly winter hike, ice skating, snow shoeing, skiing, or sledding: this is the year to embrace all that winter has to offer!
Nothing says “It’s the Holidays!” like a Hot Buttered Rum. Growing up, this recipe was a staple during the holidays, though the kids enjoyed a “Hot Buttered Yum”. Too cute! Add the rum if you’re so inclined: this toasty sipper is one you’ll want to get cozy with.
14. Genuinely reflect on what this year has taught you. 2020 was a year unlike any other, and while it may be easy to reflect on all the challenging moments this year has brought, instead try focusing on the positive. When were you happiest? What did you learn? How have you changed? Truly reflect on how this year will define this next year and years to come. Use my 2020 Reflection of Joy download to get you started.
15. Sip on something festive. This roundup of cocktails includes holiday-worthy potables to impress. Find your new favorite! This Merry Punch also makes a festive option.
16. See the holiday lights. Whether that means you bundle up for a chilly evening stroll through a brightly lit neighborhood, or take a car ride outside the city lights to see the heavenly night sky, there’s wonder to be had in the simplicity of the season. Don’t forget the cocoa!
17. Give something delicious.
An edible handmade treat serves as the perfect gift that will delight whoever is on your list.
Chocolate Truffles are tantalizing and fancy, yet surprisingly simple to make. Personalize yours (or your recipient’s!) with crushed nuts, shredded coconut, or flavored liqueurs. My favorite combination is dark chocolate with Amaretto rolled in crushed almonds!
Decanted and decorated bottles of my Homemade Limoncello make a stunning gift for the adults. It’s tart, sweet, and potent, making the perfect after-dinner sipper. The recipe is available in my e-cookbook, “My Favorite Italian Recipes”. You can grab a copy for yourself by signing up for my newsletter below, or if you’re already a subscriber, the link is in the email blast for this article!
I love your brown-speckled stoneware plates and dishes. Where can they be purchased?
Hi Cheryl! Thank you so much! A lot of the dishware and pottery I use is actually handmade by my mother! She doesn’t yet have a shop opened, although from time to time I’ve listed her pieces on my site or social media for sale. Stay tuned…she is actually in the process of making a lot of new pieces.