Celebrating Thanksgiving on your Own in a New City
November 26, 2024
by Morayma MaKay
Corporate Relocation Consultant & Coach
Get-Ready-Set-Move
A few tips for your new home.
——-
Moving If you find yourself spending Thanksgiving on your own this year, don’t worry! There are plenty of ways to make the day meaningful, whether by connecting with others or starting your own solo traditions. Here’s how you can embrace Thanksgiving with joy, even if you’re far from home and family.
1. Acknowledge Your Feelings
First things first—it’s okay to feel a bit lonely or out of place. The holidays can stir up emotions, especially if you’re used to spending them surrounded by family and friends. Take a moment to acknowledge how you’re feeling. Once you recognize those emotions, it’s easier to take proactive steps to turn the day around.
2. Reach Out and Connect with Others
You may be new to the city, but that doesn’t mean you have to spend Thanksgiving completely alone. There are plenty of ways to find connection and community, even if you’re still building your social circle. Some examples include joining a community Thanksgiving event and volunteering your time at a local homeless shelter or soup kitchen,
3. Host Your Own Solo Celebration
Being alone on Thanksgiving doesn’t mean you can’t celebrate. In fact, it’s an opportunity to create a day that’s entirely your own. You can start some new solo-traditions by cooking yourself a special meal, creating a cozy atmosphere in your new home (take advantage of those pre-Black Friday sales!), and spending time exploring your new city.
4. Stay Connected with Loved Ones
Even if you’re far from family and friends, technology makes it easier than ever to stay in touch. Try planning a virtual Thanksgiving meal via FaceTime or Zoom, or take some time to write out Thanksgiving cards for those people you are missing and let them know why you’re grateful for them.
5. Explore Your New City
One of the perks of spending Thanksgiving in a new city is that it’s the perfect time to explore without the usual crowds. Take some time to go on a walk or a hike, bundle up, grab a hot drink and explore your new surroundings. You might also want to visit local attractions like museums, botanical gardens, or attend a movie showing. If your town has a Thanksgiving day parade or festival, head out and see if you can get a better feel for your new town, and maybe even make some new friends!
6. Practice Self-Care and Mindfulness
Thanksgiving can be a great day to focus on self-care, especially if you’re spending it alone. It can be the perfect time to practice a gratitude meditation, pamper yourself with an in-home spa day, and journal your thoughts with your favorite cup of coffee or tea.
7. Plan for the Future
If you’re feeling a bit lost during Thanksgiving, look ahead to the future to boost your spirits and plan a future Friendsgiving or Thanksgiving celebration in your new home. Take the opportunity to create a mood or vision board or write out some goals you’d like to achieve as the new year approaches. Having a sense of purpose can make the adjustment you are going through a lot easier.
Spending Thanksgiving alone in a new city can be challenging, but it’s also a chance to celebrate in a way that’s meaningful to you. Whether you decide to connect with others, explore your surroundings, or enjoy a solo celebration, there are plenty of ways to make the day special. Remember, it’s all about embracing the new experiences and making the most of this chapter in your life. Happy Thanksgiving!
