Holidays and Learning a Language: 5 Fun Ways to Keep Up with Language Practice This Season!

The holiday season is upon us, and while it’s time to relax and enjoy the festivities, it can also be a wonderful time to keep up with your language learning. Here are five festive and fun ways to immerse yourself in English or French while embracing the holiday spirit. Whether you’re learning French or English, these tips can keep your language skills sharp, even during the busiest time of year!

1. Listen to Your Favorite Christmas Songs in a New Language

Music brings holiday cheer like nothing else! Try listening to holiday classics in French or English. Singing along can help improve your pronunciation and listening skills, while familiar lyrics will make it easier to understand new vocabulary. Explore popular holiday playlists or discover traditional French songs like Petit Papa Noël to celebrate the season in a whole new way—or join in with karaoke to practice vocabulary while looking at the lyrics and perfecting your pronunciation!

Want personalized tips on how to make holiday songs part of your language practice? Reach out to us at LRDG!

2. Watch Christmas Movies in Your Target Language

Movies offer a great way to experience both language and culture. Switch the language settings to English or French on your favorite holiday movies. Many classics are available in both languages, and watching them with subtitles can help you connect words with visuals, making it easier to remember phrases.

Our Favorites: We never get tired of watching “Home Alone” or “The Polar Express”—try them with subtitles for a language twist! Looking for a festive French film? “Un Noël magique” or the fun animated movie “La course des tuques“ should be on your list!

3. Learn Christmas Recipes from Different Cultures

Nothing says holiday like festive foods! Try learning how to cook popular holiday recipes from English or French-speaking cultures. Not only will you learn delicious recipes, but you’ll also pick up culinary terms and practice following instructions in your target language. Make bûche de Noël (Yule Log) or gingerbread cookies as a way to connect language with culture.

4. Write About Your Holiday Plans in Your Target Language

Practicing writing doesn’t have to be complicated! Start by jotting down your holiday plans, wishes, or even a simple holiday card in French or English. Writing about topics you’re excited about makes language practice feel effortless, and it’s a great way to build your vocabulary around holiday activities.

Looking to improve your writing? LRDG’s tutors can give you feedback and guidance. Contact us to learn more about how we can help.

5. Set New Language Goals for the New Year

The end of the year is the perfect time to reflect on your language journey and set new goals for 2025. Whether you aim to improve your fluency, expand your vocabulary, or work toward a language certification, setting specific, achievable goals will motivate you to keep learning. Our tutors can help you create a roadmap for your language success in the new year!

Embrace the Holiday Spirit and Language Learning!

Keeping up with language practice during the holidays doesn’t have to feel like work. By blending your favorite holiday traditions with language learning, you can make progress in a fun and festive way. LRDG’s team is here to support you with personalized sessions, resources, and motivation to keep your language skills growing all year long.

Connect with us at LRDG to start your language journey today and make learning a part of your holiday tradition!