Discover the top 20 Christmas scents that evoke cherished holiday memories

The nation’s most treasured festive scents have been unveiled, with the sweet, comforting aromas of hot mince pies and Christmas-scented candles making the cut.

But is your go-to holiday fragrance feature on the list?

According to a survey of 2,000 adults, a staggering two-thirds of those who celebrate Christmas confessed that the unmistakable whiffs of traditional ‘Christmas’ aromas instantly get them in the holiday mood.

The most evocative festive fragrances were found to be cinnamon, pine, and gingerbread, transporting 64% of respondents back to childhood memories and reminding 45% of specific loved ones.

Yankee Candle, which spearheaded the study, is set to launch a nationwide tour of its immersive Yankee Candle Express, inviting the public to come and indulge their senses in real life.

Taylor Perlis, a Fragrance Expert at Yankee Candle, noted: “The fragrances of the season, from warm cinnamon to freshly baked cookies, can create a powerful connection to the joy and togetherness of the holidays.

“This research highlights how important these fragrances can be in enhancing our festive spirit, bringing people together with loved ones as they reminisce and enjoy seasonal traditions.”

In fact, over half of respondents admitted to deliberately introducing festive fragrances into their homes, with 65% adorning their abodes with scented candles and 43% whipping up a storm in the kitchen to conjure up a particular festive aroma.

The study also revealed that 43% of people are drawn to spicy or warm fragrances, while 16% favour nature-inspired aromas and a further 15% lean towards food-related scents.

A spokesperson for Yankee Candle shared: “There are just certain things which, if you close your eyes and pause for a minute, can transport you to a festive memory from past or present as if by magic.”

“Whether that’s the smell of something delicious cooking in the oven, or the scent of a freshly cut pine tree adorning the living room.”

“This Christmas is an opportunity to relish those favourite smells, sights and sounds with loved ones, by lighting a candle, playing some Christmas carols and simply enjoying everyone’s company.”