What to Do When You’re Spending Christmas Alone

26 Things to Do When You’re Alone on Christmas

When you are left wondering what to do on Christmas with no family, it’s easy to dwell on the loneliness during the holiday. But you can transform being alone at Christmas into a meaningful experience. The key is to remember that even without family or friends around, you can still find warmth, joy, love, and connection.

Here are 26 ways to cope when you are alone on Christmas:

1. Create a Personalized Memory Lane

“This strategy involves gathering memorabilia from past Christmases, setting a festive atmosphere, and reflecting on favorite holiday memories. It’s a unique way to celebrate Christmas alone. You can collect photos, letters, and mementos from previous holidays, then create a cozy atmosphere in your home. Reflect on Christmas memories, arrange the memorabilia to tell your story, and reach out to loved ones for their memories.”

“Creating a memory lane cultivates gratitude and self-reflection, nurturing a sense of continuity in your life journey. It doesn’t only connect you virtually with loved ones but also infuses your solo Christmas with profound meaning. This strategy transforms potential loneliness into a uniquely special, introspective, and unforgettable holiday experience that allows you to cherish the past while embracing the present.” – Sophie Cress, LMFT and Certified Gottman Therapist, a resident expert at SexualAlpha

2. Indulge in Self-care

“Treat yourself to a relaxing massage spa day (at home or at your local spa). Practice meditation, take a long bath, or take a festive walk through your neighborhood to enjoy Christmas decorations and fresh air.” – Irina Baechle, Relationship Therapist and Coach, LCSW

3. Immerse Yourself in an Unexplored Hobby

“Instead of the usual painting or reading, how about picking up something less conventional, like juggling or origami? When you’re alone, especially during the festive season, it’s easy to feel adrift. A hobby offers a sense of purpose and direction. Completing a task or improving in a newfound interest gives a sense of achievement, which can be incredibly uplifting.” – Michelle Landeros, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

4. Prioritize Your Well-being

“Ensure you get enough rest, engage in regular exercise, and participate in activities that bring you joy. Grant yourself the freedom to set boundaries and avoid taking on too much. By managing your obligations, you can maintain a positive mental state.” – Amanda Frudakis-Ruckel, LCSW, Psychotherapist & Founder of Person to Person Psychotherapy and Counseling

5. Start a New Tradition

“Use your alone time on Christmas to create new traditions that are special to you. This might range from reading a holiday-themed novel to creating a Christmas gratitude journal.” – >Irina Baechle, Relationship Therapist and Coach, LCSW

“Start by identifying activities or things that bring you joy during the holiday season. It could be watching your favorite holiday movies, baking festive treats, or even taking a long winter walk. Plan a schedule for the day, incorporating these activities as your personal traditions. For example, you might set aside a specific time to decorate your space, play your favorite holiday music, and enjoy a special meal. By creating your own rituals, you can regain a sense of control over the day and make it feel more meaningful.” – Carla da Cunha, Founder of Serengeti Wellness, MA, LCPC

6. Write Letters to the Future

“Writing a letter to your future self allows for introspection. It’s an opportunity to reflect on your current emotions, challenges, and aspirations. This act of reflection can be therapeutic, as it offers a chance to acknowledge feelings of loneliness while also focusing on hopes for the future.” – Michelle Landeros, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

7. Remember, You’re Not Alone

“Recognize that many others might be experiencing a similar situation. You’re not alone in feeling alone. Reach out to neighbors or local community groups. Participate in charitable activities like volunteering at a soup kitchen or contributing to a charity run. Donating food and toys to those in need not only spreads kindness but also fosters a deep sense of fulfillment and connection with your community.” – Amanda Frudakis-Ruckel, LCSW, Psychotherapist & Founder of Person to Person Psychotherapy and Counseling

8. Have a Digital Potluck Dinner

“Being alone at Christmas can be difficult. But in the age of technology, distance isn’t a barrier to connection. A digital potluck dinner involves setting a time with friends or family (or even a group of acquaintances in a similar situation) to have a meal together over a video call platform like Zoom or Skype.”

“Each participant can prepare a dish (it could be a shared recipe or something entirely individual) and eat ‘together’ digitally. Sharing the cooking process or presenting the final dish can spark conversations, laughter, and a sense of togetherness. This virtual gathering can alleviate feelings of isolation, allowing for shared experiences and stories, and creating festive memories despite the physical distance.” – Dr. Domonique Rice, IMFT-S, Holistic Sex Therapist, AAMFT Approved Supervisor, CFMHE, CCCE, CFBA, CFP

9. Express Your Creativity

“Expressing yourself through a creative or inspiring endeavor is an act of self-love that can help you cope with being alone at Christmas. The holidays are a particularly hard time to experience situational loneliness, as cultural and social media would have you believe that everyone else is blissfully jolly. Avoid scrolling Facebook by creating something unique and new for the season.”

“Creative expression addresses that aspect of loneliness that leaves one feeling unseen. We crave the feeling of being heard and acknowledged, and external validation feels good. However, during loneliness, art like making a seasonal decoration, writing a poem, or drawing can encourage self-validation by evoking a sense of pride or accomplishment, or through acceptance of your needs and feelings.” – Stephanie Barca, Therapist at Benjamin Holmes Counseling, and LMSW

10. Volunteer

“One great way to increase your sense of connection on Christmas is to volunteer. This is a way to not just feel less alone but to help someone else feel less alone too. Volunteering can help you feel good about doing good, which can help you get more into the Christmas spirit.” – Dr. Regina Lazarovich, PhD, Clinical Psychologist & Founder of Compass CBT

11. Plan Ahead

“The holidays can be very difficult for a lot of people, and it is important to plan ahead, even if you don’t have a lot of family or friends, you can still celebrate the holiday in the presence of others, either in person, online or on television.”

“A great plan is to prepare to cook something and bring that dish to someone on Christmas, someone that may not be cooking, such as an elderly person or a homeless shelter. Try not to focus on yourself, and still offer that gift of giving. Helping with food shelters is a wonderful idea and oftentimes, you need to be approved ahead of time, so it’s a good idea to look in October for what you need to do.” – Dr. Leslie Dobson, MS, MA, Psy.D

12. Give Back

“Consider helping in your community or donating online during the holidays. Helping others might take your mind off your loneliness and give you something else to focus on. Giving and sharing with others may also boost your self-esteem; you’ll feel better knowing you’re doing something selfless on Christmas.” – Irina Baechle, Relationship Therapist and Coach, LCSW

13. Attend Local Community Events

“The very essence of community events is bringing people together. For someone feeling isolated, being in a space where people are congregating, even if they’re strangers, can offer an immediate sense of belonging. Simple interactions — a shared laugh or even a brief conversation — can lift spirits.”

“Also, community gatherings often bring together a diverse group of people from the same locality. Attending such events can open doors to new friendships or acquaintances, fostering bonds that might extend beyond the festive season.” – Michelle Landeros, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

14. Reframe Your Situation

“Reframe your situation and turn your loneliness into solitude. While seemingly similar, the two are in fact really different. This simple adjustment in your perspective on your holiday circumstance can make a world of difference. Being alone doesn’t have to mean you are lonely. Try to find a satisfying sense of peace and enjoyment in your moments alone.” – Jennie Kleinman, LCSW, PLLC, LMHC at Be You Psychology

15. Reach Out to Loved Ones Through Technology

“Reach out to loved ones through technology: In today’s digital age, staying in touch with friends and family is simpler than ever. To share in the holiday spirit and help loved ones feel included, plan a phone call or video call for Christmas day. This can foster a sense of community and connection.”

“Technology enables us to feel connected and share special moments with loved ones even when we are not physically present. Spend some time reaching out to those who might be experiencing holiday loneliness and establishing connections with them. Both parties can benefit from having a conversation or exchanging stories over the phone or via video call.” – Michelle English, LCSW, Co-Founder and Executive Clinical Manager at >Healthy Life Recovery

16. Immerse Yourself in Comforting Activities

“Baking your favorite holiday treats, watching Christmas movies, or decorating your home with festive lights and decorations are all possibilities. Through focusing on what makes you happy, you can divert your attention away from feelings of loneliness and create a festive atmosphere.” – Gary Tucker, Licensed Psychotherapist at D’Amore Mental Health

17. Treat Yourself to a Solo Date

“Taking yourself on a solo date during Christmas serves as a reminder and affirmation that you deserve to feel joy and celebration on your own terms even when you’re alone. Treat yourself to a special meal, explore festive holiday lights, or watch your favorite festive movie. Let go of any narrative that tells you that being alone means you’re lonely.” – Alissa Martinez, MS, LPC, NCC, Psychotherapist & Founder of Crystal Mind Counseling

18. Find an Online Community

“Another great way to combat loneliness on Christmas is by finding an online community of people who are also spending the holiday alone. There are many forums, social media groups, and virtual events specifically for people who are looking for connections during the holidays. Joining these communities can help you feel less isolated and provide a space to share your feelings and experiences with others.” – Heather Wilson LCSW, LCADC, CCTP, Executive Director at Epiphany Wellness 

19. Embark on a Culinary Adventure

“Why not make the kitchen your festive playground? Choose a recipe you’ve never tried before, maybe something from a different culture or a dish you’ve always wanted to master. The act of cooking or baking can be therapeutic, providing both a task to focus on and a delicious reward at the end.” – Dr. Alejandro Alva, Psychiatrist at Mental Health Center of San Diego

20. Practice Mindfulness

“Engage in activities that promote mindfulness, such as yoga, meditation, or journaling. These practices can help you stay present and focused, reducing feelings of loneliness and promoting a sense of peace.” – Ian Jackson, LPC-MHSP, LMHC, NCC, Licensed Mental Health Counselor at Recovery Unplugged 

21. Lean on Nature as a Companion

“Nature has an inherent calming quality. Embrace this by taking a leisurely walk in your local park or nearby nature trail. The tranquility of nature, combined with physical activity, can elevate your mood. By immersing yourself in the outdoors, you’re not only breaking the monotony of being indoors but also allowing the natural world to soothe any feelings of loneliness.” – Dr. Alejandro Alva, Psychiatrist at Mental Health Center of San Diego

“If you can, take a walk, go for a hike, or simply enjoy some fresh air. Nature can have a calming effect and physical activity releases endorphins which improve mood.” – Ian Jackson, LPC-MHSP, LMHC, NCC, Licensed Mental Health Counselor at Recovery Unplugged 

22. Reach Out For Help

“Reach out to helplines: Utilize helplines such as the Samaritans or the NHS helpline (111), which can provide immediate emotional support. Local churches or other religious institutions often have special events or services during Christmas and welcome everyone, even those who aren’t regular members.” – Dr. Salwan Jajawi, Consultant Psychiatrist with Dr. J and Colleagues

23. Practice Reflection and Gratitude

“Take some time for introspection and gratitude. Reflect on the positive aspects of your life, the things you’re grateful for, and the progress you’ve made. Writing down these thoughts in a journal can be particularly beneficial. This practice helps shift your focus from loneliness to appreciation, fostering a positive mindset.”

“Additionally, setting intentions for the holiday, such as self-care or learning something new, can provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment. Engaging in mindful reflection can promote emotional well-being and help create a meaningful holiday experience, even when alone.” – Asma Rehman, LPC, Founder & Director Grief Recovery Center

24. Resist the Urge to Compare

“Resist the urge to compare your holiday to anyone else’s. As tempting as it is to scroll social media, consider staying away from your phone during the holidays, as seeing others’ festive occasions may make you question your own plans. Be proud that you can enjoy your own company! Think about what might make this day meaningful for you, not for anyone else.” – Liz Kelly, LICSW

25. Have a Personal Christmas Movie Marathon

“Pick out your favorite Christmas movies or explore new ones you haven’t seen. Create a cozy atmosphere with blankets, popcorn, and warm beverages. This self-care activity provides a comforting nostalgia or new adventures through cinematic stories, offering a break from feeling isolated.” – Niloufar Esmaeilpour, Registered Clinical Counselor at Lotus Therapy

26. Embrace Acts of Kindness

“In the spirit of the holiday season, embracing acts of kindness becomes a powerful antidote to loneliness. Reach out to others with gestures of genuine warmth and care. Consider crafting heartfelt letters or assembling thoughtful care packages containing comforting treasures like baked goods and cozy socks paired with handwritten notes. Extend these gifts to loved ones and strangers battling isolation.”

“Engaging in these acts of kindness shifts the focus from loneliness to compassion. Kindness brightens someone’s day by bringing a sense of connection. You rediscover that you are not alone. You are an integral part of a larger tapestry of humanity. Through your acts of love, you weave threads of hope and togetherness into the fabric of the holiday spirit.” – Brianda Teterukov, Licensed Professional Counselor, Owner of AZ Therapy Quest

When to Find a Therapist to Help You Cope With Loneliness

Feeling lonely, especially when alone on Christmas, can be a sign that it’s time to consider therapy. If thoughts of what to do on Christmas with no family or just being alone at Christmas overwhelm you, professional support can help. Start by researching an online therapist directory, where you can browse profiles, read reviews, and find a therapist who can help you work through feelings of loneliness.

Be sure to look for someone who makes you feel comfortable.Therapy can provide the guidance and strategies you need to navigate the holiday season and find ways to cope with feeling isolated.