There’s no better place to celebrate the holidays than the school of witchcraft and wizardry! The holiday season has just begun, so bundle up with a glass of butterbeer and a homemade Weasley sweater and marathon the Harry Potterfilms. Every school year, Harry and his friends enjoy a small break from their adventures to share the Christmas spirit at Hogwarts. From magical gifts to excellent food, Christmas at Hogwarts is the heartwarming place we’d all love to be this December.

1. The Magic

With just a flick of the wrist, the entire Great Hall is transformed into a Christmas wonderland. The Professors decorate the enormous, fantastic tree. Look up to see the magical snowflakes on the ceiling. None of the students can contain their holiday excitement, not even the Slytherins. Even though everyone needs to study for winter exams, the magic is breathtaking and Wizard Chess in the Great Hall is much more exciting.

2. Winter at Hogwarts

What is more beautiful than the Hogwarts castle covered in snow? The students bundle up in their House scarves to beat the cold during the Quidditch matches. Hogsmeade seems far more exciting with the buildings draped in icicles. However, when creeping around under an invisibility cloak, always remember to cover your footprints!

3. The Food

It’s the time of year to be thankful for house elves because the Christmas specialties are delicious. The season of gift-giving means indulging in holiday candy with friends. Whether you’re celebrating at home or staying at Hogwarts over break, you will certainly fill up on the best food in the Wizarding World. Christmas celebration calls for more butterbeer!

4. Yule Ball

Every witch and wizard looks forward to the Triwizard Tournament for the Christmas night festivity, the Yule Ball. The fourth years and older get to attend the dance celebrating the Champions in the social event of the year. All dressed up in their finest dress robes, the students look fantastic as they dance the night away. Don’t hesitate to find a date because with a performance like the Weird Sisters, this will be a night to remember.

5. The Weasleys

There’s no place like home, especially one overflowing with redhead wizards. As much as you miss the Weasley family, this year everyone wants to stay at Hogwarts. Don’t worry though, because Mrs. Weasley never forgets to send a nice Christmas gift—probably her famous, handmade sweaters. Take a break from fighting dark magic and play Wizard Chess with Ron and Ginny, or perhaps just send a owl with your letter of gratitude to your favorite family.

With a snow-covered castle, social festivities and decadent food Christmas time at Hogwarts is the most magical time of year. There is always something to do and a Weasley to talk to around the halls of school. If home is where the heart is, then we most definitely belong at Hogwarts this Christmas.