Mariah Carey has defrosted. The Christmas season has begun. As her classic song echoes throughout malls, coffee shops, and car radios, it marks the return of the festivities of the season. From the most loved Christmas movies to polarizing holiday foods and debates over when celebrating Christmas should start (before Thanksgiving or after?) there are many controversial aspects of the season. These are the best and worst.

Songs: 

Best: “All I Want for Christmas is You” by Mariah Carey and “Last Christmas” by Wham! Are essential for any holiday playlist. While some may argue they are overplayed, they are popular for good reason. The catchy melodies and lyrics are fun and festive and the season wouldn’t feel right without them.

Worst: On the other hand, nothing is worse than when any song is played too early. Even the best songs should not be heard in October. No one should play any rumpumpumpum or deck the halls until at least November. Let’s save those songs for when they actually belong.

Gifts:

Best: The top presents should be personal, thoughtful, or fun. Concert tickets to their favorite band or even a personalized basket would be both memorable and appreciated. More practical items like kitchen gadgets or sports gear are also sure to be used and loved.

Worst: Every year, there is a gift or even a few that people wish they never got. A random, generic, or thoughtless present is almost worse than none at all. Gifts don’t have to cost a lot, or even anything at all, but it is truly the thought that counts. No one wants clothing that’s not their style or size or obviously regifted items. And no one wants to feel like they are getting a hint by receiving something backhanded like deodorant or self-help books.

Foods:

Best: Each family has their special dishes they look forward to. Whether it’s delicious mashed potatoes, glazed ham, or other savory foods, they make Christmas dinner special. Sugar cookies are a fun activity to make and decorate, and they are also scrumptious.

Worst: Some things are just better to look at than to eat. Gingerbread houses, while fun to build, are stale and unappetizing. Fruitcake is a classic of the season, but why? The dense texture and odd flavor cause it to be one of the most disliked seasonal desserts.

Drinks:

Best: What is a Christmas movie-watching experience without hot cocoa? The warm rich chocolatey flavor is delicious especially when combined with the classic marshmallows and whipped cream. Similarly, a peppermint mocha has a nice seasonal taste with added coffee and peppermint flavors which only enhance the drink further.

Worst: Eggnog is only drunk during the season, probably because no one wants it around any longer. It’s overly sweet and the consistency is somehow both thick and thin, and not in a good way. And to make this drink even better, eggnog also contains health risks because it’s made with raw eggs. Yum!

Decoration:

Best: A well-decorated home can spark joy and invite everyone to gather around. Twinkling lights, wreaths, and colorful decorations make homes feel cozy and bright. A few hints or completely overflowing with decor, either way, decor is beautiful as long as there is personality and care shown.

Worst: On the contrary, the dread of beige, uninspired decorations is all too real. No one wants to wake up Christmas morning and see a tree and house filled with boring, unremarkable decorations. Decoration should add fun to a house, not make it feel cold and unwelcoming. Ultimately, decorations should reflect the unique style and character of homes and the people who live there.

   Christmas is about embracing the joy, activities, and traditions that make the season special. Whether watching one of the best movies, sipping hot cocoa in pajamas, or picking out gifts for everyone on the list, each moment adds to the holiday spirit. Some parts may be worse than others, but the real best part of Christmas is sharing those moments with friends and family. So as the season goes by, appreciate those around you.