The holidays can feel tricky as we get older, and more of us find ourselves alone for the holidays. Maybe the kids have moved away, maybe you’ve gone through a divorce, lost a partner, or even started fresh in a new town.
But being on your own doesn’t have to mean sad or lonely. You can actually make it fun. I’ve got 15 ideas to help you do just that.
With a little planning and a dash of creativity, you can turn the holidays into something you enjoy, even if you’re spending them solo.
15 Ways to Have Fun Even if You’re Alone For the Holidays
I love everything about Christmas. The music, the lights, the energy, the festivities – all of it. The one thing I’m not fond of is being alone, but I’ve gotten used to it since moving to Guatemala.
I wake up alone, have Christmas breakfast alone, listen to Christmas music alone, all of it. I find joy in my heart now, so it’s easier to bear. I still don’t like being alone for the holidays, but I’ve grown to accept that’s just the way it is until I find my next lifelong partner!
Anyway, here are some fun ways to enjoy being alone for the holidays.
Volunteer at a Local Shelter or Food Bank
Giving back to your community can help lift your spirits during the holiday season. There are volunteers needed in many establishments as people look for shelter due to the weather, and that means that they’ll need some food, too.
I did this while I was back in Sudbury and enjoyed it so much! It really fills your heart.
Go On a Trip
Sometimes, being in a new environment can help take your mind off your loneliness and provide a new sense of adventure. Why not explore a new spot, visit a friend who lives far away, or just enjoy travelling solo for a new experience?
If you’re strapped for cash and can’t jet off to faraway lands, a simple road trip will do the trick, too.
Host a Potluck Dinner
Invite friends, neighbours, and acquaintances over for a holiday feast. Everyone can pitch in with a dish and share in the festivities. Cooking and hosting will give you a lot of satisfaction and will keep you entertained and happy for the holidays.
We usually do this in my town here in Guatemala, and it’s always so fun.
Create Your Own Traditions
Maybe you always wanted to decorate your house in a certain way or cook a special meal. Maybe you’re musically talented and haven’t picked up the guitar in a long time or sat by the piano.
The holidays are a great time to start new traditions that make you happy.
Treat Yourself to a Nice Meal Out
Go to your favourite restaurant and enjoy a delicious meal without the hassle of cooking or cleaning up. Pick your favourite meals, have a glass of wine, and enjoy the best dessert.
You might be surprised who you meet up with. There could be other lonely people doing this, too!
Join a Local Senior Center or Community Center
Many of these centers offer special holiday events and activities for seniors, such as art or cooking classes, games and movie nights.
Ask around in your area (at church, the grocery store, library, cafe, etc) and find out what the holiday events are.
Watch a Classic Movie
Cuddle up with a classic holiday film like It’s a Wonderful Life or Miracle on 34th Street. You could do a holiday movie marathon and watch your favourites.
My favourite is the cartoon classic “How the Grinch Stole Christmas”. I’ll watch that a million times.
Participate in Online Communities
Join online forums or social media groups where you can connect with others who may also be spending the holidays alone. You can have fun while meeting new people, who perhaps you can stay in touch with after the holidays.
Just be safe, though!
Take Part in a Religious Service
Attend a holiday service and connect with others who share your faith. This will make you feel fulfilled and at peace.
Many local churches also have a Christmas dinner after the service. A great time for fellowship.
Teach Yourself a New Skill
Whether it’s knitting, painting, or learning a new language, keeping your mind active and engaged can help fight feelings of loneliness. You could easily get lost in knitting or painting and totally forget the time.
Maybe try a new Christmas cookie recipe and then deliver them to a local senior’s home.
Listen to Festive Music
Play your favourite holiday tunes and sing along. Music has a way of lifting our spirits and improving our mood.
Dance around your house and look for different playlists to cheer you up. I crank my Christmas music practically the whole month of December.
Treat Yourself to a Spa Day
While most businesses are closed on Christmas Day, many are open on Christmas Eve. If that’s not in your budget, you can create a spa-like atmosphere in your home!
Take a bath and use delicious-smelling bath bombs, a rich oil to moisturize your skin, some bubbles, and drink a nice tea or a glass of wine.
Take a Walk
Get your shoes and coat on (or mitts and scarf, depending on where you live) and enjoy the holiday decorations in your neighbourhood. Why not call up a friend or grab your neighbour and visit different neighbourhoods and see all the lovely Christmas lights and decorations on the houses?
You can make this a new yearly tradition, too.
Write Letters to Loved Ones
Reconnect with old friends and family members by writing heartfelt letters to let them know you’re thinking of them. Many of us lose touch with old friends, so this would be a great time to reach out and say, “Hi, I’m thinking of you and hope you have a wonderful Christmas.”
Who knows? You may just rekindle an old friendship at the same time.
Practice Gratitude
Take some time to reflect on what you’re grateful for. Write down a list of things you’re thankful for, and focus on the positive things in your life.
When we’re grateful for the things we do have, we forget the things we don’t have, or they seem less important. And Christmas is a great time of year to reflect on all the blessings we have in our lives.
final thoughts on Being Alone for the holidays
While it can be challenging to be alone for the holidays, there are many ways to make the holidays enjoyable and fulfilling. Whether it’s volunteering, hosting a potluck, or taking a trip, there are many ways to create new memories and traditions during the holidays.
Remember to take care of yourself, stay engaged and connected with others, and focus on the positive things in your life. Happy holidays!
