Sleigh bells are ringing, snow may or may not be glistening — Christmas is on its way! But let’s be honest: Christmas isn’t the main star of the season. There’s something about the build-up and Christmas Eve that are a dash more magical than the big day itself. I’ve always appreciated the moments of peace Christmas Eve brings, especially in contrast to the chaos of Christmas day. It’s a time of togetherness, comfort, and cookie-baking. Everyone is nestled inside, binging holiday classics or doing some very last-minute online shopping. And for TikTokers, they’re perfecting their winter routines.
While the “holiday morning/night routine” trend has existed for ages, it’s recently gained a lot of traction on TikTok. People are sharing how they make the most of Christmas Eve — and how you can, too. Regardless of what holiday you celebrate, as December unwinds, you might want to implement some of these regimens into your morning or night routine. It’s easy to get swept up in the mayhem that inevitably comes with Christmas preparations. These sample routines will make your Christmas Eve a bit more structured, and all the more festive. Grab your favorite ugly sweater and cozy candle — it’s time to lay out some ground rules for Dec. 24.
What Do These CHRISTMAS EVE Routines Entail?
The day is yours, so obviously, you can do whatever you like. But if you’re looking for advice on how to start your Christmas Eve, TikTok recommends you wake up early. Getting an early start to the day will increase your productivity, which I presume you’ll need as you prepare for Christmas. Beat the harsh winter weather by hydrating your skin and immediately drinking water. And don’t forget to have a nourishing breakfast (cinnamon rolls, anyone?).
A common thread throughout these TikToks is to take “that” shower. For those of you who don’t know, the “that” shower is just as intense as it is soothing. These are the kinds of showers that you truly revel in, filling your bathroom up with steam. And you can make them festive, too. Spend 20 to 30 minutes soaking up the warm water, all the while singing your lungs out to Justin Bieber’s “Mistletoe.”
Now that you’ve pampered yourself, it’s time to take on the day. Spread your holiday cheer wherever you go by taking a drive while listening to Christmas music. The destination is unimportant — what matters is you have a perfectly-curated playlist to keep you entertained. Grab your Starbucks peppermint mocha latte while you still can, and if you need to run any errands, do it now before the stores get mobbed. When day turns into night, you can return to your festive playlist as you and your loved ones embark on a drive to see all the lights. Admiring everyone’s decorations is my favorite part of the season — and a much-needed addition to everyone’s routine, I might add.
What Are TikTokers Doing On Christmas Eve?
Everyone rings in the holiday season differently. Some people on TikTok have a more structured approach to creating their Christmas Eve routines. These users confront the hecticness of the holidays with an hour-by-hour schedule, filled with Christmas movie marathons and champagne. Others take it slow, lounging by the fire (or virtual fire) with a cup of cocoa. I admire those who have mastered the balance between following a strict set of rules and taking time to unwind.
As I see it, there are only three rules you need to abide by on Christmas Eve: eat, laugh, and enjoy yourself. Every Christmas Eve is unique and irreplaceable. Though this may be easier said than done, try to recenter your focus to the present whenever you catch yourself worrying about tomorrow. Whether you celebrate Christmas or not, each new holiday season is one to cherish.