I’ve changed a lot as a person since 7th grade, but one thing has stayed constant: my obsession with random holidays. The app Holiday Today has inhabited my home screen since 2018, and you can always count on me to provide a random occasion to celebrate. Whether it be Middle Child Day celebrations every August 13th, where my sisters love to honor me, or Carrot Cake Day on February 3rd, which provides an excuse to buy a slice at SusieCakes, I take holidays very seriously. I’m here to provide my knowledge and spirit. Though December is already filled to the brim with holidays, here are a few more excuses to spread cheer for the rest of this year.

National Cupcake Day

Friday, Dec. 15

The best way to begin this list of recommendations is with a day dedicated to cupcakes. From Susie Cakes to Sprinkles, I’m a huge cupcake advocate, and I believe that the cupcake craze is here to stay. On Dec. 15 (also the first day of winter break), grab a friend and your favorite recipe and attempt to bake cupcakes from scratch. Though perhaps you are more like me and would rather head to a bakery, buy a red velvet cupcake and consume it on the spot. No matter the celebration method or flavor, join me in snatching a cupcake on Dec. 15. 

Crossword Puzzle Day

Thursday, Dec. 21

While completing a crossword puzzle is already a part of my daily routine, I can think of no better way to spend Dec. 21 than to indulge in a bit of problem solving. The New York Times Mini Crossword is a great starting point for any newbies. I love completing it each day to see if I can get a faster time than my friends (shoutout Anabel). If you’re feeling bold, you can attempt the more formal New York Times crossword, but it will be a Thursday, so solving it won’t be easy (the later it is in the week, the harder the crosswords get). However, in my opinion, the superior way to celebrate Crossword Puzzle Day is to make your own crossword puzzle. You can use fun hints or inside jokes that only friends or family members will understand, and the result is really special and personalized. All it takes is a simple Google search and your customized crossword puzzle will come to life. 

Thank-You Note Day

Tuesday, Dec. 26

I cannot recommend celebrating Thank-You Note Day enough. I am a massive fan of thank-you notes. Yes, I do work at a stationery store, and this is shameless promo, but through my job at Sugar Paper, I’ve built up a deep admiration for the power of a handwritten note. It always touches my heart when one takes the time to write a personalized message to me with pen and paper. It’s old-fashioned and chic! This Dec. 26, I hope that all of you find someone you would like to thank in your life, big or small, and write them a note.