All posts by Holiday-Cuba

The Cultural Significance of Christmas Greetings: How Merry Christmas and Happy Christmas Unite Us All

The Cultural Significance of Christmas Greetings: How Merry Christmas and Happy Christmas Unite Us All

The Origin of Christmas Greetings

The holiday season is undoubtedly one of the busiest and most exciting times of the year. However, if there is one thing that every culture and religion have in common during this time, it is the way they greet and celebrate Christmas. The phrases “Merry Christmas” and “Happy Christmas” are used by people all over the world during this period, regardless of their religious beliefs. These phrases unite us all and remind us of the importance of spreading love and joy during the festive season.

The phrase “Merry Christmas” has its roots in England during the 16th century. At that time, the word “merry” was used to mean pleasant or favorable, and it was commonly used to express happiness during holidays and social gatherings. It wasn’t until the 19th century that the phrase became popularized in Christmas songs and stories. From then on, the phrase became synonymous with Christmas and is still in use today.

On the other hand, “Happy Christmas” is more commonly used in British English. It has been used since the 16th century and can still be found in older versions of the popular carol “We Wish You a Merry Christmas.” Although less common than “Merry Christmas” in the United States, the phrase remains popular in the United Kingdom, Ireland, Australia, and New Zealand.

The Cultural Impact of Christmas Greetings

The practice of exchanging Christmas greetings is not only confined to the English-speaking world, but it is also practiced in many other countries. Christians in many countries including Spain, Italy, Portugal, and France use the phrase “Feliz Navidad,” which is Spanish for “Merry Christmas.” Similarly, in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, people say “Frohe Weihnachten,” which translates to “Happy Christmas.”

In Latin America, many Christians use the phrase “Felices Fiestas,” which is Spanish for “Happy Holidays.” The phrase is used to encompass not only Christmas Day but also New Year’s Day and Epiphany, which are grouped together as traditional holiday festivities.

It is interesting to note that even in non-Christian countries, the practice of exchanging Christmas greetings has become widespread. In Japan, for example, it is customary to exchange Christmas cards, even though Christianity only represents a small minority of the population. They often use the phrase “Merii Kurisumasu,” which is a phonetic transference of “Merry Christmas” into Japanese.

In conclusion, the phrases “Merry Christmas” and “Happy Christmas” have become important symbols of the festive season throughout the world. They represent the spirit of goodwill and unity that is present during the holiday season. Regardless of culture, religion, or language, these greetings serve as a reminder to everyone of the importance of spreading love and kindness during this special time of the year.

Do You Know the Etymology of Merry and Happy in Christmas Greetings?

Do You Know the Etymology of Merry and Happy in Christmas Greetings?

Why You Should Integrate Lighting and Garlands

As the most wonderful time of the year that brings the spirit of joy and positivity, Christmas is a festival celebrated worldwide with great zeal and enthusiasm. People exchange greetings and wishes on this auspicious occasion to convey their feelings for their loved ones. The most common phrases used are “Merry Christmas” and “Happy Holidays.” But do you know the origin of these greetings? Here’s a brief exploration of the etymology of merry and happy in Christmas greetings.

“Merry” is derived from the Old English word “myrge,” which connotes “pleasing, agreeable, or delightful.” The word “merry” evolved over the years and became a common term in the English language in the 14th century. During the Middle Ages, the word was used to describe a joyous or festive occasion, later becoming synonymous with Christmas. The term was frequently used in the popular Christmas carol, “We Wish You a Merry Christmas,” believed to have originated in the English West Country in the 16th century.

On the other hand, the word “happy” derived from the Old English word “hap,” which refers to luck, good fortune, or chance. In the Middle Ages, the term was associated with health and well-being, which was later linked with happiness. The concept of wishing someone a “happy” Christmas involves bestowing the individual with blessings and good wishes for a prosperous future. The phrase “Happy Holidays” is also used in the same sense of sending good wishes and blessings for the entire holiday season.

Tips for Decorating Your Garland with Lights

The English language used “merry” more frequently than “happy” in Christmas greetings during the 19th century. The popularity of the phrase “Merry Christmas” continued to increase broadly with the publication of Charles Dickens’s A Christmas Carol in 1843. The story revolved around Ebenezer Scrooge’s defiance of the holiday spirit and the eventual redemption he experienced. The phrase “Merry Christmas” became an integral part of the book and has since been associated with the spirit of Christmas.

In the United States, “happy” was often used with religious connotations for Christmas greetings. The phrase “Happy Christmas” was rare and was restricted to the country’s upper class. The term “Happy Holidays” rose to popularity in the United States during the 20th century due to a shift towards inclusivity and diversity. The phrase is generally used to recognize Christmas as one of many holidays celebrated during the winter months, including Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and the Winter Solstice.

In conclusion, it’s fascinating to understand the origins of these popular expressions that many of us use during the Christmas season. “Merry Christmas” and “Happy Holidays” convey a message of hope, joy, and positivity that brings people closer together. As we celebrate this holiday season, let’s continue to spread the spirit of love and happiness and extend our warmest greetings to those around us.

Light It Up: How to Integrate Festive Lighting with Your Artificial Christmas Garlands for a Warm Holiday Glow

Light It Up: How to Integrate Festive Lighting with Your Artificial Christmas Garlands for a Warm Holiday Glow

Christmas is a magical time of the year when families come together to celebrate the holiday season. To create a warm holiday glow in your home, one popular decoration option is to combine festive lighting with artificial Christmas garlands. This combination contributes to creating a cozy and inviting ambiance, encouraging everyone to soak up the spirit of the season. Here are some tips on how to integrate festive lighting with your artificial Christmas garlands to create that perfect holiday feeling:

Choose the Right Lights

The first step in incorporating festive lighting with your Christmas garland is to choose the right type of lights. There are many varieties available, including LED lights, string lights, and battery-operated lights. LED lights are energy-efficient and can last for years, while string lights add a classic touch to your décor. Battery-operated lights are an excellent choice if you want your garland to be portable or if you have a power outlet shortage.

Pick Your Garland

When deciding on the artificial Christmas garland to use, consider the space you’ll be decorating. For instance, if you’re decorating a mantel, opt for a shorter garland. A long garland on a small mantel can look cluttered. Large entryways or staircases, on the other hand, can accommodate longer garlands without looking overcrowded.

Add Some Color

Artificial Christmas garlands can come in different colors, such as white or green. If you want an extra pop of color, choose a garland that features red and green foliage, or one that includes vibrant berries, pinecones or ornaments. The color of your garland should complement the color of your lights. Choose lights that match your garland or use neutral, warm white lights.

Prepare to Hang

Now that you have selected your lights and garland, it’s time to start hanging. Before attaching the lights or garland to your desired space, make sure to fluff or shape your garland if needed. Start by laying out the garland, then adjust the lighting to create the right amount of illumination. Attach the lights to the garland by weaving them in between the branches, keeping the wiring hidden from view as much as possible.

Create Cohesion

When hanging your festive lighting with artificial Christmas garlands, try to create cohesion between your décor elements. Consider using ribbons or bows and fuss-free ornaments or picks to add visual excitement to your décor while keeping things uniform.

Create Your Focal Point

Finally, decide where you want the focal point of your décor to be. By determining this, you will know where to place your artificial Christmas garlands or oversize ornaments and focal accents, along with your festive lighting. You may want to hang cluster lights behind a focal point to create a halo effect.

In conclusion, combining festive lighting with artificial Christmas garlands is an excellent way to create a warm holiday glow in your home. With careful consideration of color, style, and accessories, you can make your decorations visually cohesive and full of warmth and holiday cheer. So go ahead and use these tips for your next holiday decorating project and transform your home into the perfect holiday retreat. Happy Holidays!

The Art of Balance: How to Choose the Perfect Size and Proportion for Your Giant Artificial Christmas Tree

The Art of Balance: How to Choose the Perfect Size and Proportion for Your Giant Artificial Christmas Tree

The Importance of Size and Proportion in Choosing a Christmas Tree

When it comes to decorating your home for the holidays, there’s nothing quite like a giant artificial Christmas tree to create a festive atmosphere. But choosing the perfect size and proportion for your tree can be tricky, and many people find themselves struggling with this task. To help make selecting the right tree easier, here are some tips on how to choose the perfect size and proportion for your giant artificial Christmas tree.

Before you decide on a tree size, it’s important to consider the room in which you’ll be setting up your Christmas decorations. Measure the length and width of the room and then use this measurement when selecting a tree size. You want to make sure that there is enough space in the room for both the tree itself as well as any decorations you plan on adding around it. Additionally, bear in mind any furniture or other objects that may be in the room that could get in the way of an oversized tree.

Tips for Choosing the Perfect Height for Your Christmas Tree

Once you’ve determined how much space you have available, it’s time to think about what kind of proportion is best for your giant artificial Christmas tree. Generally speaking, most trees can look balanced if they are one-third wider than their height so keep this ratio in mind when shopping for your ideal size. However, if you have extra large rooms or ceilings you can opt for larger proportions such as one half wider than its height or even two-thirds wider than its height. This will help create an eye-catching focal point while also making sure that all sides of the room are visible and not blocked by an overly large tree.

When picking out your perfect sized artificial Christmas tree, there are several details that should be carefully considered such as branch lighting options, foliage quality and overall design style. Artificial trees come with either pre-lit branches or unlit branches which require separate lights purchased separately so this decision will depend on whether you prefer having lights already strung up on your tree or prefer to string them yourself after assembling it at home. You will also want to select trees with good quality foliage made from natural looking material such as PE or PVC needles which provide realistic color and texture compared with cheaper alternatives like plastic needles or polyester fibers which can look more artificial and fake over time due to fading or damage from wear and tear over time. Lastly, think about what kinds of designs best fit into your holiday décor theme – look for trees with classic shapes like spruce or fir trees or go bolder with abstract designs like snowflakes or angels depending on what suits your desired aesthetic best!

By following these tips on how to choose the perfect size and proportion for a giant artificial Christmas tree, you’ll be able to create a festive holiday atmosphere in any home! With careful consideration given towards room measurements, branching types and foliage materials – combined with a little creativity – anyone can create a stunningly beautiful display that will bring joy into their homes during this special season!

Unbelievable Quality & Realism: The Benefits of an Artificial Christmas Tree

Unbelievable Quality & Realism: The Benefits of an Artificial Christmas Tree

Unbeatable Realism: The Advantages of Artificial Christmas Trees

When the holiday season arrives, so too does the yearly conundrum of whether to purchase an artificial or real Christmas tree. While each type of tree has its own benefits, there are some clear advantages to selecting an artificial tree this year. Not only are they increasingly realistic and lifelike, but they also come with a variety of long-term benefits that can save time and money while still providing a quality holiday experience.

For starters, artificial trees often look much more realistic than their real counterparts. Modern technology has advanced to the point that it is difficult for the untrained eye to distinguish between a fake and real tree – especially if decorations are added! In addition to looking lifelike, these faux trees are available in many different styles and sizes to meet individual needs and preferences. Whether someone prefers a smaller tabletop tree or a larger full-sized model, it’s easy to find an artificial alternative that fits their space perfectly.

The Versatility of Artificial Christmas Trees

Another major benefit of choosing an artificial Christmas tree is convenience. No longer do you have to worry about disposing of your tree after the holidays have concluded; instead, you can simply disassemble it into manageable pieces and store it away until next year’s festivities arrive. This means no more hauling heavy trees up staircases or worrying about needles falling everywhere when you take them down! Plus, a lot of models come pre-lit so all you have to do is plug them in on Christmas day and enjoy instant twinkling lights without having to fuss with strings of tangled bulbs.

Not only is an artificial Christmas tree convenient during the set-up process but it also saves money over time since you won’t need to purchase a new one each year. Many models can last for decades if taken care of properly which helps reduce the financial costs associated with traditional holiday decorations like real trees and string lights. Plus, most faux trees don’t require watering or trimming which further reduces effort and maintenance needs throughout the season – leaving you free to spend less time decorating your home and more time enjoying your family traditions!

When selecting an artificial Christmas tree this year, choose one that meets both your aesthetic tastes as well as your budget needs in order to get the most value out of your investment. While some might initially be tempted by the low price tag associated with cheaper options, remember that these can often lack realism or longevity which could end up costing more in repairs or replacements down the line. By shopping smartly ahead of time however, it’s possible to find a beautiful faux version that will provide quality results while still being easy on your wallet!

Ultimately, an artificial Christmas tree can offer unbeatable convenience combined with realistic visual effects for those celebrating this holiday season. Whether needing something for small spaces or just wanting something low maintenance yet still festive looking for large gatherings – there is sure to be a perfect option out there waiting just for you! With improved technology making them look more lifelike every year as well as helping maximize overall savings – why not consider investing in an artificial tree today?

Get Creative! How to Make Your Own Festive Decorations this Year

Get Creative! How to Make Your Own Festive Decorations this Year

Christmas Wreaths: A Traditional and Personalized Touch

This year, get creative and make your own festive decorations! There are so many ways to be creative and crafty with your holiday decor, and it can be a great way to save money and get into the holiday spirit.

One way to make your own decorations is to create paper snowflakes. This is a classic craft that is easy and fun for all ages. You can use construction paper, recycled paper, or even tissue paper. Once you have your materials, fold the paper in half several times and then cut out shapes. Once you have your desired shape, unfold the paper and voila! You have your very own handmade snowflake.

DIY Christmas Tree Decorations: Festive and Fun

Another fun idea is to make salt dough ornaments. This is a great activity to do with kids, and it results in some beautiful christmas ornaments that can be used year after year. To make salt dough, simply combine 1 cup of flour with 1/2 cup of salt and 1/2 cup of water. Mix together until the dough is firm but not too sticky. Then roll out the dough on a floured surface and use cookie cutters to cut out shapes. Once the shapes are cut out, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 200 degrees for 2-3 hours. Once they are cooled, you can paint them however you like!

If you’re looking for something a little more unique, try making fairy lights! These are so easy to make and look absolutely gorgeous when they’re finished. All you need is some clear plastic cups, LED tea lights, hot glue, scissors, and string. Start by cutting a small hole in the bottom of each cup. Then insert an LED tea light into each cup and glue the opening shut. Next, use hot glue to attach each cup to a length of string. Hang up your fairy lights and enjoy their beauty!

Finally, if you really want to get into the holiday spirit, consider making a gingerbread house! This classic Christmas treat can be made from scratch or using a kit from the store. Either way, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends. Making a gingerbread house is a great way to bond with loved ones and create some lasting memories (and delicious gingerbread).

So this holiday season, don’t stress about finding the perfect decorations – get creative and make your own! It’s cheaper, more fun, and will result in some truly unique decor that everyone will love.

Spread the Cheer and Joy this Season with an Unforgettable Flocked Artificial Christmas Tree

Spread the Cheer and Joy this Season with an Unforgettable Flocked Artificial Christmas Tree

What is a Flocked Tree and Why should you consider buying one?

The Christmas season is one of joy and cheer, and an artificial flocked Christmas tree can help really bring out the holiday spirit in your home. When you decorate your house with a beautiful flocked tree, it will add a special touch to all of your holiday decorations. Flocking gives your tree a unique snow-covered look that is sure to help make it stand out from the rest of your decorations. Whether you’re looking for a large traditional tree or a more modern slim profile option, an artificial flocked Christmas tree is sure to add that extra sparkle during the festive season.

How to Choose the Perfect Flocked Tree for Your Home

When selecting a flocked Christmas tree, there are several factors to consider before making your final selection. First and foremost, you should be sure to measure the height and width of the space in which you would like to place the tree so that you select one that fits perfectly. Secondly, considering what type of lighting setup you plan on using is important as LED lights are more energy efficient than incandescent bulbs and come in different vibrant colors which will help create an even more eye-catching display. Thirdly, depending on your budget and preference, there are many different styles of artificial trees available including pre-lit options or ones with branches made with either PVC or PE materials.

For those looking for larger trees, pre-lit options are ideal since they come with multiple strings of lights already attached which saves time stringing them up yourself. Additionally, many pre-lit trees come with a variety of lighting choices such as multi-colored or single color LED lights that give you complete control over how bright or dimmed down your tree will be lit up at any given time. On the other hand, if saving money is more important than having lots of lights then opting for an unlit flocked tree might be best as these usually cost less than pre-lit versions but still offer the same stunning effect when decorated appropriately.

Decorating Your Flocked Christmas Tree: Tips and Ideas to Make it Shine

Adding additional decorations such as garland ornaments and ribbons also helps create an even more festive atmosphere around the home this holiday season. Pre-decorated trees are available however buying individual decorations allows for greater customization when it comes to style and design by allowing individuals to craft their own unique look for their home décor this winter. For those who want something extra special on their flocked Christmas tree can find plenty of options online including lighted snowflakes clusters which provide an amazing twinkle effect in addition to creating an almost magical ambiance in any room where they’re placed.

An artificial flocked Christmas tree brings a special touch during the holidays that no other decoration can match and provides long lasting memories every year when it’s set up once again before Santa’s visit each December 25th! While choosing between various sizes and models can seem overwhelming at times with all these great options available now anyone can easily find one that perfectly fits both their budgets and needs while still providing them with unbeatable beauty whether indoors or outdoors during this magical time!

Bring the Holidays Home With You: Best Practices for Selecting an Alluring Artificial Christmas Wreath and Garland

Bring the Holidays Home With You: Best Practices for Selecting an Alluring Artificial Christmas Wreath and Garland

Why choose an artificial Christmas wreath and garland?

Bringing the holidays home with you this season can be a wonderful way to decorate your house and invite joy into your life. One of the most popular decorations are wreaths and garlands, which come in all shapes, sizes, materials, and colors. Whether you’re looking for something traditional and classic or something more modern and unique, there is sure to be an artificial Christmas wreath or garland that fits your style and home decor perfectly.

When selecting a wreath or garland for holiday décor this year, there are a few best practices to keep in mind. First, consider the size of the space you plan to hang the decoration. Artificial wreaths generally range from 18 inches to 36 inches in diameter while garlands typically measure between 10 feet to 15 feet long. A good rule of thumb is to use a larger size if you plan on displaying it outdoors as it will have more impact against the backdrop of nature.

Material options and their benefits

Next, decide what material you would like your decoration to be made of as these range from natural pine needles to shatterproof plastic foliage. Natural materials such as real pine needles and cedar branches create a traditional look that blends well with outdoor settings but require additional maintenance throughout the season due to their fragile nature when exposed to weather conditions like snow and wind. On the other hand, shatterproof plastic options provide an easier maintenance-free solution while still providing the same level of beauty and elegance as natural alternatives but at a much lower cost point.

Once you’ve chosen your size and material preferences for your artificial Christmas wreath or garland, it’s time to select its color scheme. You can opt for multicolored pieces that evoke feelings of cheerfulness or earth-toned colors such as greens or whites that give off a peaceful vibe during the holiday season. Many decorations also feature accents such as ribbons, bows, pinecones or berries for additional texture and visual interest; just make sure these don’t overwhelm your overall design aesthetic by adding too many extra elements after all other decisions have been made!

Finally, pay attention to any special features that may help prolong your decoration’s lifespan while keeping it looking its best even after several weeks hanging up indoors or outdoors. For example, some artificial Christmas wreaths come pre-strung with LED lights while some garlands are equipped with timers so they automatically turn on each day at dusk – perfect if you need something low-maintenance but still eye-catching! Additionally, many items now come with UV protection so they won’t fade in direct sunlight over time; this is especially important if you plan on displaying them outdoors during warm weather months when rain may not be frequent enough for regular cleaning sessions without risk of discoloration occurring prematurely.

Final thoughts: Bringing the holiday season home with an alluring wreath and garland.

In conclusion, selecting an artificial Christmas wreath or garland is not only about choosing something visually appealing – there are several practical considerations that need to be taken into account if you want yours to last for years on end without losing its alluring appearance over time! From deciding which size works best for your home’s layout to picking out colors that reflect your own personal style preferences – making sure each element is carefully thought through will ensure maximum enjoyment from both guests admiring it from afar as well as yourself being able enjoy these festive decorations during every holiday season ahead!

Delight in the Sounds of The Holidays: A Guide to Choosing the Perfect Christmas Carol

Delight in the Sounds of The Holidays: A Guide to Choosing the Perfect Christmas Carol

The Importance of Choosing the Right Christmas Carol

Christmas carols are an essential part of the holiday season. They help to celebrate and bring joy to the season, while also providing an opportunity to reconnect with memories and traditions. Whether it’s a family gathering or a festive company party, Christmas carols can bring people together and lift spirits.

When selecting the perfect Christmas Carol, there are several things to consider. Firstly, think about the overall theme and mood you want to create for your gathering or event. Do you want something traditional and timeless? Or do you prefer a more modern twist on an old classic? Choosing a song that reflects the atmosphere is key for getting everyone in the holiday spirit!

Another important factor when picking a Christmas Carol is to identify who will be singing it. If children are singing, try selecting something upbeat and age appropriate such as “Jingle Bells” or “Rudolph The Red Nosed Reindeer”. For adult choirs or vocalists, consider something more sophisticated such as “Silent Night” or “The First Noel”. Each song should have enough parts so that everyone can sing along together.

How to Choose Christmas Carols for Different Occasions and Moods

In addition, there are many different styles of arrangements available for each Christmas Carol. Traditional arrangements tend to be slower paced and often include additional instruments such as violins or flutes to create a fuller sound. Contemporary versions offer faster tempos and unique instrumentation that provide new ways of interpreting classic favorites. Both styles can help bring out different elements within each song, making them enjoyable for all types of audiences.

For those looking for something truly unique, consider incorporating instruments like marimbas or ocarinas into your arrangement of Christmas Carols – this adds a fun element while still staying true to the original songs! Additionally, some groups may wish to add small touches like vocal harmonies or extra percussion parts – this can transform any standard version into something special and memorable for all involved  in celebrating the holidays!

No matter which type of arrangement you choose for your Christmas Carols selection should reflect both your style preferences as well as those of your group members or audience. And also don’t forget about including some seasonal favorites – songs like “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” and “Joy To The World” will always bring back fond childhood memories during this time of year!

Overall, choosing the perfect Christmas Carol involves considering both individual tastes and group dynamics in order to make sure everyone has a wonderful experience during their holiday celebration! Selecting music with these factors in mind will ensure that everyone enjoys singing along together while creating lasting memories they can treasure forever – merry sounds indeed!

Create New Family Traditions with Colorful Glass Ornaments for Your Artificial Christmas Tree

Create New Family Traditions with Colorful Glass Ornaments for Your Artificial Christmas Tree

Choosing the Right Glass Ornaments

The holiday season is the most wonderful time of the year for many people, and nothing quite symbolizes it like a Christmas tree. Prelit Christmas trees bring a festive and cheerful ambiance to any home, as well as providing an inviting centerpiece for your family to gather around each year. Flocked artificial Christmas trees also lend a classic and elegant touch to your holiday decorating scheme. Artificial Christmas trees are available in many different shapes and sizes, from classic full size prelit varieties to tall, slim prelit models; there’s something that will suit every space and style.

When it comes to decorating your artificial Christmas tree, we always recommend starting with the lights first. If you opt for a prelit artificial Christmas tree, you can simply hang your chosen ornaments on the branches – leaving more time to enjoy the festive season! Once you’ve got your tree adorned with baubles and tinsel, why not complete your holiday look with some luxurious wreaths and garlands? Whether hung around doorways or placed over mantels and fireplaces, these beautiful decorations will bring instant seasonal cheer.

Decorating Your Glass Ornaments

On the night before Christmas, there’s nothing quite like gathering around a lighted tree with family members or friends in anticipation of Santa’s arrival. While traditional real pine trees may require ongoing watering throughout the season, modern artificial varieties offer an effortless alternative without sacrificing authenticity – just one of the reasons why they’re becoming increasingly popular this year. When choosing an artificial tree for Santa’s big night, consider opting for one of our Best Artificial Trees 2022 picks for maximum quality assurance.

No matter what style you choose for your fake tree or how much you spend on it, remember that its ultimate purpose is to bring joy throughout the festive season. An artificial Christmas tree won’t need watering or regular maintenance throughout December – so all that’s left to do is simply sit back and enjoy all its sparkling glory! With proper storage afterward – either sturdy cardboard boxes or retail-grade polyethylene bags – you can keep your cherished decoration safe until next year too, ready to be unwrapped all over again when December rolls round once more.

To sum up: made from high-quality materials that remain in good condition even after multiple uses over many years; no need for pruning or watering; easy setup within minutes; convenient storage solutions; suitable for both indoor and outdoor spaces; highly customizable with various colors and accessories available – these are just some of the key benefits associated with prelit artificial Christmas trees today! So whether this is your first time buying one or just another year adding twinkling magic into the home through evergreen foliage – don’t hesitate to pick up an exquisite faux fir in time for Santa’s visit this winter!