5 Ways to Celebrate the Holidays Alone (LA edition)
Maybe you planned a little too late and realized it’s just too expensive to travel this year for the holidays. I get it, airline prices have been soaring these last couple of years! Also, the hassle of traveling during one of the busiest times of the year is another story.
Perhaps you are having trouble with your family and are at a place in your life where you are trying to figure things out. You are not alone in this. Many folks have a difficult time during the holidays due to family dysfunction. Your reasons are valid.
Here are 5 ways you can still have a nice time this 2023 holiday! This list includes how to have solitude and also not be alone for the holidays!
1. Tell a local friend about your situation and ask if it would be possible for you to join.
I know it may sound vulnerable, however, usually, people are welcoming to invite others into their traditions. As someone who grew up celebrating Jewish holidays and Christmas, on some years I invited friends either to try out a tradition they never experienced or they couldn’t be with their own family that year. It’s also within the Christmas spirit to spread love. Give it a shot to ask!
2. Volunteer!
Volunteer with an organization this year. There are so many people in need of support and organizations can get all the help that’s out there. You can feed the homeless, help out an animal shelter, or find an environmental cleanup. Not only do you have the opportunity to not be alone and meet people you are also making a difference in people’s lives! Here’s a list of organizations in Los Angeles that volunteer around the holidays according to the LA Times. This is a 2022 list so some of the items may have changed for this year: https://www.latimes.com/lifestyle/list/where-to-volunteer-for-holidays-thanksgiving-christmas-in-los-angeles .
3. Spend a day with yourself!
You can decorate your space a bit or go out shopping for yourself as a self-gifting. You can make yourself a special breakfast! If you live in a city, go see if there is an open spa. If you are in Los Angeles, Wi Spa is usually open! Going out to the movies is an option as well. I know some people who do that. You can also create a vision board at home or outside so that you have something to look forward to for 2024. You can start getting creative and set goals for yourself.
You can feel your feelings but let them come and go!
4. Get Outside!
It helps to look ahead online in places such as community Facebook Groups or Next Door to see if there’s a public neighborhood event. This is something that happened in my neighborhood for Hanakuah where there was a giant menorah and free snacks. With Christmas, there are most likely events like this whether it’s lighting a Christmas tree, a get-together at a park, or a church event.
Even if you walk outside with no plans, you may run into an event by the beach or at a park. Be brave and join in on the conversation. Again, it’s the Christmas spirit to make peace with others in the community. If people judge you thats a their problem and not you! You can also just find some solitude outside wether that’s being present in the environment or reading a book.
5. Connect Virtually
Virtually connect with loved ones that you can’t physically see this holiday. This might be familiar to you from the pandemic years. Zoom and have a meal with a family member or friend or give them a call.
If you are a gamer you can also chat with people online, relax, and play games with others. I remember some past Christmas playing for a bit online whether that was a new game that came out or a popular competitive game.
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Despite the title, you are actually NOT ALONE! Whatever the reason is, there are many people this holiday in your position. It doesn’t mean you are undeserving of love or that no one cares. It is worth it to yourself to have a nice day! You are worthy! :)
