The holiday season can be a stressful time, especially with finals season in full swing. However, this makes for the perfect reason to take every opportunity to embrace holiday festivities. We've come up with the easiest, cheapest, and most spirited list of activities to help every college student feel like a kid again during the holidays.

You can start the holidays right by making a trip to TJ Maxx or Marshalls for the cutest - yet affordable - decorations. Pillows, blankets, trees, and so much more can be found at low prices! Whether you're decorating to host a Holiday themed party or just to get into the spirit, getting your roommates together to revamp your living room keeps everyone in a festive mood.

Speaking of hosting, want to make sure everyone around you is staying in the holiday spirit? Host a gingerbread house or christmas cookie decorating party! Whether you're making them from scratch or decorating premade kits, this gets the whole group together for some lighthearted competition. Take this opportunity to show off your artistic skills and your best Christmas sweaters! While you're dressed up, get your closest friends together and make a Christmas card. You can send them out or just keep them on the fridge to remember a special holiday night.

Are you struggling to find presents for the whole friend group? Try changing things up with Secret Santa. One gift with added mystery won’t break the bank and adds a special level of surprise. Want to take it a step further? Try playing White Elephant. This game consists of stealing, laughing, and saving money. If you're looking for something extra unique, take a look at our list of best thrift stores in Cstat to find the perfect vintage gift for your friends!

If you're looking to get out of the house, check out in Santa’s Wonderland for ice skating and beautiful light shows. For an even more interactive experience, head to Holiday in the Park at Six Flags. With the whole park decked out in decorations and lights, you can transport yourself into your favorite Christmas movie. Make sure you and your friends get your tickets quickly to ensure you don’t miss out on classic holiday activities.

Staying in? Make your best hot chocolate and watch Christmas Movies! Take a trip down memory lane and rewatch the classics like Elf, The Polar Express and The Santa Clause and reminisce about your earliest Christmas memories. If you want to watch a romance unfold during the holiday season, movies such as The Holiday, Love Actually, and Just Friends are the perfect choices. Make sure to grab your friends and your cutest Christmas pajamas to complete the night.

Although the season can be stressful, the memories you make with loved ones around you will be the days you remember post graduation. So whenever you're not cramming for finals, try anything from decorating at-home parties or checking out some on the road must-sees to get into the holiday spirit. Take advantage of every opportunity this holiday season to show your loved ones just how much you care and cherish the memories y’all create.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

Written by Maddie Townsend, Photography: Lacey Loomis, Social Media: Bella Hanson

Channeling our Inner Christmas Spirit