Celebrate "Bookmas in July" with a Festive Reading Challenge!
- Book Nerd
- Jun 27
- 4 min read
July might seem far from the holiday season, but it offers a perfect chance to bring some Christmas cheer early with a fun and festive reading challenge. Bookmas in July invites readers to celebrate their love of books and the holiday spirit through 16 engaging activities. Whether you want to cozy up with a Christmas novel or get creative with bookish crafts, this challenge will brighten your summer and keep your reading goals on track.
Below, you’ll find detailed ideas for each of the 16 challenges to help you make the most of Bookmas in July.
1. Read a Christmas Novel
Start your Bookmas journey by cozying up with a Christmas-themed novel. Choose a classic like A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens or a modern favorite such as The Christmas Train by David Baldacci. Debbie Macomber has a wonderful selection of Christmas reads as well. Reading a holiday story in July adds a unique twist and helps you get into the festive mood early.
2. Drink Something Warm and Cozy While Reading
Pair your reading with a comforting drink. Hot chocolate, spiced tea, or a warm apple cider can enhance the cozy atmosphere. This simple ritual makes your reading time feel special and relaxing, perfect for a summer evening or a quiet afternoon.
3. Recommend Your Favorite Christmas Book on Social Media
Share the joy of your favorite holiday read by posting a recommendation online. Write a brief review or share a memorable quote. This spreads the Bookmas spirit and might inspire friends and followers to join the challenge.
4. Donate Books to a Little Free Library
Give back by donating gently used books to a local Little Free Library. This small act supports community literacy and shares the gift of reading. Look for holiday-themed books or any titles you think others will enjoy.
5. Craft a New Bookmark
Get creative by making a bookmark that reflects the Christmas spirit and your love of reading. Use materials like cardstock, ribbons, or even pressed pine needles. Handmade bookmarks add a personal touch to your reading experience and make great gifts.
6. Do a Bookish Puzzle
Take a break from reading with a puzzle featuring book covers, literary quotes, or festive scenes. Puzzles stimulate your mind and keep the holiday theme alive in a different way.
7. Visit a Bookstore
Plan a trip to a local bookstore. Browse the shelves for Christmas books or discover new authors. If you're feeling tech savvy, record a video of your festive finds and post to your social media platforms to share the Bookmas spirit with fellow book lovers.
8. Create a Bookish Wish List for Christmas
Start your holiday shopping early by making a wish list of books you want to receive or give. Include titles you’ve heard about or classics you want to own. This list will guide your future purchases and gift ideas.
9. Check if Your Favorite Author Is Publishing an Upcoming Christmas Book
Stay informed by researching if any of your favorite authors have new holiday releases planned. Following author websites or newsletters can keep you updated and excited for upcoming reads.
10. Make Reading Goals for the Rest of the Year
Use Bookmas in July as a checkpoint to set or revise your reading goals. Decide how many books you want to finish by December and what genres or themes to explore. Clear goals help maintain motivation.
11. Create a Christmas Tree from Books
Arrange your books in the shape of a Christmas tree. This fun decoration uses your existing collection and adds a festive touch to your reading space. You can decorate it with fairy lights or paper ornaments for extra cheer.
12. Read in Your PJs on Bookmas (July 25)
Celebrate the official Bookmas day by reading in your pajamas. This cozy habit encourages relaxation and makes reading feel like a special event. Invite family or friends to join for a shared experience.
13. Listen to Christmas Music While Reading
Add a soundtrack to your reading by playing Christmas music softly in the background. Choose instrumental carols or your favorite holiday songs to enhance the festive atmosphere without distracting from the story.
14. Buy a New Book Journal
Invest in a book journal to track your reading progress, jot down thoughts, or plan future reads. A dedicated journal helps organize your literary adventures and can become a treasured keepsake.
15. Watch a Christmas Movie Based on a Book
Pick a holiday movie adapted from a book and watch it after reading the original story. Comparing the two versions offers insight into storytelling and adds variety to your Bookmas activities.
RomCom Review devotes a webpage to books that were developed into Hallmark and Great American Family movies!
16. Exchange Book Gifts with Your Family on Bookmas
Organize a book gift exchange with family or friends on July 25. Choose wrapped books to surprise each other and share your favorite reads. This tradition strengthens bonds and spreads the joy of reading.
Bookmas in July offers a unique way to celebrate your love for books and the holiday spirit during the summer months. These 16 challenges provide a mix of reading, creativity, and community involvement that can refresh your reading habits and bring joy to your days. Pick a few or complete them all to make this July a festive and memorable reading experience.
Follow BOOKNERDIA on Our Socials!
Booknerdia is a utopia for book nerds! Join us to talk about books, share reviews, post memes, celebrate the classics, promote authors, see fun bookstore displays, find new bookish merch, & SO much more!
Comments