It’s almost Christmas time again and to borrow the words of Mariah Carey’s masterpiece, “All I Want for Christmas Is You,” love is truly “in the air.” Every corner of the festive season hums with it—whether it’s in the lyrics of holiday songs playing in malls, the “With love from…” messages on gift tags, or even the sentimental ads reminding us to “Show someone they’re loved this Christmas.”

I really love Christmas season ; my best season tbh 🥰

— A…R…I…Z…O…N…A (@_MzJayde) November 24, 2024

This heartwarming season has a special way of amplifying feelings of connection and affection. Whether rekindling old flames, deepening relationships, or sparking new ones, Christmas creates the perfect backdrop for love to thrive. But why does love feel more magical at Christmas? History and science suggest that the spirit of love and community at Christmas has profound effects on our well-being.

Take the example of Roseto, Pennsylvania, a small American town founded by Italian immigrants in the late 19th century. Dr. Stewart Wolf, an American physician, discovered something remarkable about this community in the 1960s. Roseto’s residents were exceptionally healthy—heart disease was almost unheard of among those under 65, and the death rate from all causes was significantly lower than the national average.

Initially, Wolf explored physical factors like diet and genetics, but he found no significant differences from other communities. His breakthrough came when he studied how the Rosetans lived. Their lives were deeply rooted in love and connection. They celebrated together, supported one another, and created a culture of acceptance and belonging. Wolf concluded that these strong relationships and acts of love were the foundation of their happiness and health.This insight mirrors the Christmas spirit, which fosters gratitude, kindness, and deepened relationships, often leaving people feeling more loved and connected.

In Lagos, the season brings with it Detty December, a whirlwind of concerts, parties, and social gatherings. Nobody wants to go out alone, so people often pair up—whether it’s with a new flame, a rekindled ex, or a close friend. “There’s something about the energy of Detty December that makes you want to share it with someone special,” says Folake who shared her thoughts during our interview. “Even if you start the month single, there’s a good chance you’ll have a partner by the time it’s over!”

Our brains, fascinatingly, play along. The act of giving gifts lights up reward centers in the brain, flooding us with dopamine, the happiness neurotransmitter. Meanwhile, nostalgic holiday music evokes strong emotions and triggers the release of oxytocin—the “love hormone.” Together, these chemical responses enhance our feelings of warmth, joy, and connection.

But it’s not just about brain chemistry. The festive ambiance itself cultivates an openness to romantic possibilities. The holiday magic encourages people to embrace the moment, take chances, and connect on deeper levels.

“Christmas feels magical because everyone is in a giving mood,” says Funke, a wedding planner. “That energy makes people more generous with their hearts, too.” For Tobi, an artist in Lagos, “The decorations, music, and family time bring out emotions we often suppress. Love naturally finds its way into the mix.”

I truly believe my love story is going to feel like a Christmas romcom

— Ri Ri (@RiaRozayyy) November 16, 2024

Media also plays a significant role. Christmas romcoms are a seasonal staple—some might even argue Christmas is incomplete without them. These films, often featuring romanticized meet-cutes and heartwarming endings, are highly anticipated every year. “I can skip any other romcom, but Christmas romcoms are sacred,” says Kelechi, a holiday enthusiast. “They set the tone for the season and make me believe in love all over again against the new year.”

christmas romcom season >>

— Arial, like the font. (@honestari) November 8, 2024

Social gatherings during the holidays also heighten the sense of romance. Parties, weddings, and family events provide ample opportunities to meet new people or reconnect with old friends. “During December, everyone seems more approachable,” shares Blessing. “The atmosphere is relaxed and happy, which makes it easier to strike up meaningful conversations.”

However, holiday relationships aren’t without challenges. Managing financial strain, planning events, and navigating family dynamics can create tension. “We love the holidays, but the back-and-forth about whose family to visit is exhausting,” says Nnamdi, an engineer. “Still, we always make time for each other and time for the East.”