Top five ways to get into the Christmas spirit

Sometimes it's hard to get excited about Christmas, isn't it? You've got loads of work to finish before the holidays start, it's a time for spending in excess and the weather is cold and dark. Doesn't sound like it makes for a very merry Christmas now, does it sourpuss? But cheer up, we're here to give you our top five things you can do in your town or city guaranteed to get you feeling more Christmassy than a polar bear in a soft drinks commercial.

1. Watch Christmas films

Everyone has their favourite film they dust off every December to get them in the festive mood. Light the fire, crack out the variety box of chocolates, sit back and enjoy.

However, if you find this isn't doing it for you, here’s an idea: often, cinemas will show Christmas films - you could even get dressed up as Santa or Rudolf (optional). You could even take some friends along with you. Check your local cinema for festive viewings.

2. Carolling

What could be more Christmassy than getting wrapped up warm, gathering friends and having a good old sing song? For the adults, may we suggest a hot glass of mulled wine before you head out, to warm the vocal chords?

Many believe singing is a cure for the blues and it can be a good way to make a bit of pocket money - if you can actually sing, that is.

3. Go to church

It's very easy to get bogged down in the commercialism of Christmas and sometimes it's refreshing to take a step back and remember why we celebrate the holiday.
Going to church is a great way to get into the Christmas spirit; you'll get time to reflect on what really matters and feel a sense of community unlike anything else.

4. Christmas markets

Christmas markets in the UK are now a common sight and they're a great place to get your Christmas spirit on. Do some shopping, eat too much, drink too much and watch the Christmas lights sparkle in the crisp winter air.

Most cities in the UK have their own Christmas market, some more festive than others. If you want to go the whole hog, why not head over to Germany where the tradition started. Fröhliche Weihnachten!

5. Pantomimes

By far the most fun way of getting into the Christmas groove in your town is to go and see a panto. Oh, no it isn't! Oh, yes it is!

Ahem. Pantomimes embody all that is Christmas - togetherness, child-like wonder, singing, family values, the list goes on.

This Christmas, our Rock 'n' Roll panto is Jack and the Beanstalk, running from December 10, 2015 to January 10, 2016. The performance has a rock and roll twist that will have you singing and dancing along in the aisles

So if you're a Grinch looking to get into the festive spirit this year, go to www.staffordgatehousetheatre.co.uk to get yourself tickets for the Christmas event not to be missed. Or else risk coal in your stocking.