As the year comes to a close, there’s a magical buzz in the air—the twinkling lights, the warm scent of freshly baked cookies, and the excitement of gathering with loved ones to celebrate the season. For me, Christmas and New Year’s have always been about creating memories that make the holidays truly special, whether it’s cozying up with a cup of hot chocolate, shopping for the perfect gifts, or setting goals for a fresh start.
With 2024 just around the corner, I wanted to share my Top Christmas Ideas to help you make this season unforgettable. From thoughtful gifting to creative celebrations, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy. Let’s dive into the spirit of the holidays together!
1. Christmas gift ideas
The magic of handmade gifts lies in the thought and effort behind them. Whether you’re gifting family, friends, or co-workers, creating something unique can leave a lasting impression without breaking the bank.
DIY gift ideas from Dollorama
1. Create a custom Holiday hampers
This year, I decided to create something unique yet affordable—a festive hamper filled with handpicked goodies that blend practicality, indulgence, and a dash of holiday cheer. Here’s how I put it together and why it turned out to be such a heartfelt gift.
I started with a simple but sturdy basket from Dollarama. Then, I saw the wine glass which would be a perfect addition. What’s a holiday hamper without some sweet treats? I added a few Oh Henry chocolate bars—their irresistible mix of chocolate, peanuts, and caramel felt like a warm hug in candy form. These are not only delicious but also affordable, making them a perfect addition to any gift. To add a luxurious element, I included a perfume and found an adorable Mug featuring cheerful Christmas designs.
2. Christmas Decoration trends for 2024
This Christmas, I decided to embrace the holiday spirit by decorating our home with a mix of charm, creativity, and budget-friendly finds.
I started with some beautiful green garlands from Dollarama to craft a festive wreath. To make it truly stand out, I added a wreath circle and adorned it with decorative bells and red balls, giving it a warm, traditional vibe that perfectly captured the Christmas chill. While shopping, I stumbled upon an elegant glass deer—it was simply adorable and added a touch of sophistication to my décor.
Lighting is everything during the holidays, so I grabbed a pack of fairy lights and a 100-set of string lights from Dollarama, which transformed our space into a glowing Christmas haven.
This year, I wanted to try something new, so I bought a $4 snow spray and let my creativity shine. I sprayed it on our windows, writing “Merry Christmas” and drawing a little house—it was truly the cherry on top! The snow spray added a whimsical and charming vibe that everyone adored.
3. Minimalistic Elegance at IKEA
To keep up with the latest trends, I picked up stunning paper stars from IKEA for just $6.99, and they became a delightful addition to our decorations. I even treated myself to a cinnamon bun from IKEA for Christmas morning—it was such a cozy and joyful touch!
As luck would have it, we ran out of batteries for the lights, so I found a great deal on 1900-watt battery cells at IKEA for $9.99. These powered our fairy lights, making the wreath and decorations shine even brighter.
The entire experience was joyful, from crafting the decorations to seeing everything come together. It filled our home with warmth, charm, and that magical Christmas spirit. Every element, whether big or small, added to the festive vibe, making it a holiday to remember.
Tips to Recreate This Look
- Wreath Creation: Start with a basic wreath circle and use garlands, bells, and balls to customize it. Check Dollarama or Walmart for affordable supplies.
- Elegant Add-Ons: Add decorative pieces like glass deer or figurines to elevate the look. IKEA and Winners are great places to explore.
- Lighting Mood: Fairy lights and string lights can make a huge difference. Opt for warm yellow lights to give a cozy holiday glow.
- Snow Spray Fun: Use snow spray creatively on windows for a charming, frosted effect. Try writing messages or drawing Christmas-themed designs for a personal touch.
- Battery Backup: Always stock up on batteries for your lights! IKEA’s high-wattage batteries are reliable and cost-effective.
3. Festive Flavor: Wheat Christmas Cookies with a Twist
This festive season, I decided to whip up some homemade Christmas cookies, but with a healthier twist! Instead of the usual sugary treats, I went for wheat cookies topped with colorful icing—a perfect blend of festive charm and a touch of wellness. Baking these cookies felt like such a warm and fulfilling way to ring in the holidays, and it all began with a fun shopping adventure.
I visited a few local stores like Walmart and No Frills to gather the essentials, but I quickly realized that buying some items in larger quantities wasn’t practical for my small batch of festive treats. That’s when I discovered Bulk Barn, and it turned out to be an absolute lifesaver! Not only could I buy just the amount I needed, but it was also super affordable.
My total bill came to just $39, which included everything from food colors (at $7.99 each) to icing sugar ($3.49), a nozzle ($2), cookie cutters ($1.49 each), white chocolate wafers ($7.49), and dark chocolate wafers ($8.35). If I hadn’t picked up some dry fruits and walnuts for extra garnishing, I’d have saved even more!
The baking process was such a joy. From rolling out the dough with festive cookie cutters to decorating with vibrant icing and sprinkling bits of crushed chocolate wafers, it filled my home with the warmest holiday vibes. These cookies were not only a treat for the eyes but also for the soul—simple, wholesome, and brimming with love.
Check out the Full recipe
If you’d like to know the full recipe, you can check it out on my Instagram channel, where I’ve shared step-by-step details along with a quick decorating hack!
Plus, don’t miss my blog for another festive favorite: butter cookies made with Getco Oven. Both recipes are perfect for adding a personal, handmade touch to your holiday celebrations
4. Holiday Destination in Toronto
During my recent visit to the Distillery District in Toronto to experience the enchanting Christmas lights and holiday decorations, I was blown away by the festive magic that filled the air. The general ticket was $15, and although I had to wait in a 30-minute queue to get inside, it was absolutely worth it.
In the heart of the Distillery District stood a majestic Christmas tree, glittering with lights and surrounded by live music, adding a cheerful vibe to the entire area. As I entered, I was greeted by stunning photo booths and holiday decorations at every corner, creating a mesmerizing atmosphere. The streets were beautifully adorned, with twinkling lights and festive displays that made it feel like stepping into a winter wonderland.
Celebrating Christmas & New Year in Style
The food booths were equally festive, offering a wide array of Christmas-themed treats and drinks, perfect for warming up on a cold evening. The variety of holistic food carts provided a delightful mix of seasonal flavors, from hot chocolate to gourmet snacks, all in the spirit of the holidays.
It was incredible to see how everyone was enjoying the experience, capturing beautiful moments with their cameras against the backdrop of the sparkling lights and charming decor. The Distillery District truly knows how to celebrate the Christmas season, offering an unforgettable experience for visitors looking to immerse themselves in the holiday magic. Whether you’re enjoying the lights, the food, or the music, it’s a must-see holiday destination in Toronto for anyone looking the magic of Christmas and New Year in Toronto.
5. Christmas Pjs Party
This year, I hosted a cozy and fun-filled Christmas Pajama Party that became the highlight of the holiday season! To make it extra special, we turned it into a potluck party, where everyone brought their favorite dishes to share. From cheesy casseroles to mouthwatering desserts, the variety of food perfectly complemented the warm and laid-back vibe of the pajama party. The potluck idea not only made hosting easier but also added a touch of excitement as we all got to taste and enjoy different dishes.
Thank you so much for stopping by to read my content! I truly appreciate your time and hope that the ideas and experiences shared here inspire and help you create your own magical holiday moments. As we bid farewell to this festive season and welcome a brand-new year, let’s cherish these moments, carry forward the joy, and embrace the opportunities that lie ahead. Wishing you all a season filled with happiness, love, and endless inspiration for the year to come!