It might feel a bit out of place to think about Christmas while you're still enjoying summer sunshine, but getting a jump on holiday planning can help you avoid stress—and hefty bills—when December rolls around. Here are a few ways to get ahead of the holiday rush.

Take Advantage of Early Deals

Many businesses offer early bird specials to keep customers engaged and excited as the holiday season approaches. Planning ahead and taking advantage of these offers can make your holidays more affordable—and more enjoyable. Here are a few very popular events that book up fast:

Train of Lights

Tickets for 2025 are planned to go on sale the **first Saturday of October 2025 at 10AM**. Mark your calendar - tickets go fast!

Napa Valley Wine Train

Get into the holiday spirit on a merry adventure with Old Saint Nick through Napa Valley.

Get Ahead on Holiday Cards

In the whirlwind of the holiday season, sending out cards often ends up as a last-minute scramble—or gets forgotten altogether. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Start early by making a list of everyone you’d like to send a card to, stock up on your supplies, and consider using summer’s natural beauty as the perfect backdrop for a family photo. A little planning now means one less thing to worry about later!

Rethink Your Holiday Shopping Timeline

Waiting until the last minute to shop for the holidays often means battling crowded stores, facing limited options, and paying higher prices. Why not take a smarter approach? Start browsing during summer sales and gradually pick up gifts over time. Spreading out your purchases not only eases the financial strain but also gives you the chance to find thoughtful, meaningful gifts for everyone on your list—without the holiday rush.

Get a Head Start on Unique Holiday Decor

If your holiday decorations are starting to feel a bit repetitive, summer is the perfect time to mix things up. Use the season’s natural beauty as inspiration—collect seashells during your beach trips to craft a coastal-themed wreath or garland, or gather vibrant summer blooms and greenery to design a one-of-a-kind centerpiece. It’s a fun, relaxing way to add a personal touch to your holiday home—well before the winter chill sets in.

Make Your List (and Check It Twice—Early!)

When the holidays hit full swing, it’s easy for important details to slip through the cracks. That’s why summer is a great time to start mapping out your holiday to-dos. Whether it’s booking travel, planning meals, or keeping an eye out for sales, creating a checklist now helps ensure nothing gets missed later.

By starting your Christmas prep early, you can skip the last-minute stress and enjoy a more peaceful, budget-friendly season. Take advantage of the slower pace of summer to get ahead on shopping, decorating, and planning. And while prepping for Christmas in June or July might feel a little out of place, it’s also a fun reminder that joy and celebration don’t have to be saved for just one time of year.

Ronnie’s Awesome List will be coming out very soon. Be sure to check back for all the holiday magic in and around the Bay Area.