Snow's falling, twinkle lights are going up and it's finally acceptable to listen to Christmas music in public—the holiday season has arrived! In between rocking around the Christmas tree and decking the halls make sure you make time for checking these must-dos off your holiday bucket list this year—maybe one will even turn into a new holiday tradition. Light your favorite holiday candle ( I am burning Kalamazoo Candle Company Hearth & Home), queue up a holiday playlist, and read on to make this the best holiday season ever.

Make a batch of homemade hot chocolate

Of course, you can heat up some milk and toss in Hersey syrup, but what's the fun in that? From hot cocoa bombs and Mexican hot chocolate to healthier dairy free hot cocoa you're sure to find a unique way to indulge in hot chocolate this holiday season.

Healthy Dairy Free Hot Cocoa

Ingredients:
1 cup oat or almond milk
1 tablespoon raw cacao powder
1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Directions:
1. Combine all the ingredients in a saucepan.
2. Heat over medium high heat.
3. Use a whisk to break up any clumps.
4. Stir until smooth and piping hot.
5. Pour into a mug and enjoy.
Pro Tip: I like topping my hot chocolate with dairy-free whipped cream and pieces of candy canes.

Go on a drive to look at lights

There's no prettier sight than the Christmas lights around your hometown.

Watch Christmas movies

From classics like Christmas Vacation, A Wonderful Life, The Grinch, and A Christmas Story to Hallmark Christmas movies there's no better time of year to mix old favorites with new favorites.

Send some holiday cards

Christmas cards have always been my favorite to give and receive. It's just a great way to show friends and family you care and are thinking about them during the holidays.

Buy tickets for a holiday show or experience

Because is it really Christmas without seeing a performance of The Nutcracker? I say not. Get dressed up in your most festive fancy wear (sequin dress, anyone?), and get totally wrapped up in the Christmas spirit.

Rock a tacky Christmas sweater party

From holiday parties to holiday shows adding an ugly Christmas sweater is always a fun idea. My friend and I will be rocking our ugly Christmas sweaters at an upcoming holiday show that we'll be attending in downtown Detroit.

Go ice skating

Who doesn't love ice skating around a gorgeous Christmas tree?

Build a gingerbread house

Nothing like revisiting childhood nostalgia and building/decorating a gingerbread house.