It seems now more than ever, we struggle to enjoy the holiday season. Often, school takes precedence over watching that one Christmas movie or spending time with friends and family. What little time we get is frequently filled with doing the holiday necessities, like buying presents. For many it is a small sign of the holiday season when special holiday menu items are released. Some of these items we mark our calendars for, and others leave us questioning why it comes back every year. McRib. Cough. Cough. There are many local places that bring out all the stops to make their holiday drinks a speciality.

Northside Social’s Hot Chocolate

A classic staple of my childhood, Northside Social is always a place I will stop in for a warm mug of hot chocolate. Hot chocolate embodies all the things that are magical about the holiday season, and Northside’s rendition is no different. It’s a delicious treat that always hits the spot on a cold winter’s day. The creaminess of the chocolate and warm milk are truly a match made in heaven. Northside Social has two locations, one located in Clarendon and the other in Falls Church, so you are never too far away from a place to stop in and get a great hot chocolate.

Compass Coffee’s Gingerbread Latte

For any espresso drink lovers this latte is just for you. Using Compass Coffee’s patented gingerbread syrup, their Gingerbread Latte has the perfect combination of sweetness and cinnamon spice that give it an authentic gingerbread taste. Compass Coffee is based in the DMV and has many locations, including one just up the road from our school. Their speciality latte’s and coldbrews steal the show around the holiday season.

Rare Bird Coffee’s Butterscotch Latte

Located in Falls Church, Rare Bird is one of my favorite spots. Although the Butterscotch Latte may be available year round it feels like this drink fits right in with the rest of the holiday treats. The Butterscotch Latte is a truly unique drink that includes their homemade butterscotch syrup. This drink’s deep caramel flavor is unlike any other latte. If you are ever in search of a good coffee and a place to sit down and rest, Rare Bird is the spot for you.

Detour Coffee Co.’s Speciality Peppermint Leaves Tea

Detour Coffee Co. has some of the best tea in the area, and their Peppermint Tea is no different. It has the perfect scents of the winter season, and this hot tea has a special way of warming you up on a cold day. The peppermint in the tea has a perfect element of sweet and spice. Whenever I have a cold or congestion I am always reminded of this fantastic tea that always makes me feel better. If you are in need of a warm cup of tea, make sure to stop in at Detour Coffee Co. in Clarendon.

There are certainly many more places we could highlight, but these select few stood out. Whether it was the nostalgia of a mug filled to the brim with hot chocolate, or the pick me up of a holiday flavored coffee, these places go above and beyond when it comes to making the holiday season all the more magical