Winter. Snow falling on the ground, the sound of jingle bells in the air and the scent of cookies baking in the oven. And then you remember: you are in Los Angeles, a city with barely any trees that gets a drop of rain every year. How do you make it feel like winter here? We have a few ideas as to how you can make your California winter feel a little more merry. 

With the holiday season comes the holiday music, like the obvious Mariah Carey and Frank Sinatra. If you want to get a little more instrumental, the Harry Potter soundtrack is the perfect mix of nostalgic and fresh. With its cheerful melodies and waltzy rhythms, this classic puts an original spin on your winter tunes. For all the Swifties out there, Taylor Swift has many cold weather songs and albums, like “Folklore” and “Evermore,” which make you feel like you’re in the breezy woods even if it’s 80 degrees outside.

If you want to get a little more crafty, winter decor is the key to making the perfect snowy vibe. If you are a fan of DIY projects, paper snowflakes are the way to go. They are simple and dainty and only require paper and scissors. If you aren’t looking for anything too hands-on, you can swing by your local Target and splurge on candles, Christmas lights, chunky knit blankets and, of course, fake snow! Then feel free to tape up the snowflakes, light the candles, string the lights, sprinkle the snow and bundle up in your blanket.  

Cold weather treats are also a must over your winter break. You could opt for the classics, warm cookies or hot chocolate topped with marshmallows or maybe some peppermint bark and gingerbread while you watch a cozy holiday movie. Whatever wintery snack you pick will surely put you in the holiday spirit. 

You might think you know every inch of your city, but one of the best things to do over your break is to get out of the house and explore Los Angeles. You can do so many things to get in the winter mood: ice skating, going to a ballet or even going holiday shopping. At night, you can drive around your neighborhood and look at all the fun holiday decorations or even put some reindeer antlers on your car. 

Anytime you’re romanticizing what winter might be like somewhere else, don’t hesitate to take our advice! Whether it’s music, decor, desserts or stay-cations, there is always a way to bring winter to your front door.