Spending Thanksgiving alone? Here’s how to fill it with joy
Thanksgiving is often portrayed as a picture-perfect scene: a full table, a flawless turkey, smiling family, and the entire day unfolding like a holiday commercial. But real life is much more varied, and for many people, Thanksgiving looks different.
A growing number of Americans are spending the holiday on their own. In fact, recent US Census data shows single-person households continue to rise, meaning more people than ever may be single on Thanksgiving or celebrating in their own way. And that’s not a bad thing. There are countless ways to create a holiday that feels warm, meaningful, and entirely yours.
Being alone on Thanksgiving doesn’t have to feel lonely. Try adjusting your expectations of this time of year, erasing the clichéd image of Thanksgiving from your mind and lessening the pressure of the day. With the right mindset and a little intention, it can become a day you genuinely enjoy. EliteSingles asked Relationship Coach Sam Owen for her advice and top tips for those American singles embarking on the holidays.
1. Alone on Thanksgiving? Be Proactive
Feeling solo during a family-centric holiday can feel intimidating at first, but staying positive almost always feels worse than taking action. Instead of retreating to your couch, plan something that adds energy and purpose to your day.
Volunteering is an especially meaningful option. Foodbanks, community centers, and nonprofit holiday events often need extra hands. Research has also shown that volunteering can boost well-being, reduce loneliness, and increase a sense of connection. If giving back isn’t your style, plan an activity that makes the day feel special. Hit up your favorite brunch spot, take a long walk with a podcast, or start your own traditions.
2. Make the most of the Thanksgiving Festivities
Even if you’re alone on Thanksgiving, the holiday season is buzzing with events. Social gatherings, big or small, are a great way to meet new people. Parties, community gatherings, and even online conversations tend to feel more relaxed and open around the holidays. People dress up a little more, try a little harder, and show up with a more positive mindset. Lean into in!
Take advantage of the cheerful holiday energy and say yes to invitations, talk to the person next to you, or update your dating profile with new photos. Connections will happen when you give them room to spark.
3. Host a Friendsgiving
If you’re planning to be alone on Thanksgiving, chances are you know others who are too. So why not invite your single friends, your coupled friends and anyone who might enjoy a low-pressured gathering to a Friendsgiving? You don’t need an elaborate feast or the perfect turkey centerpiece. Make it a potluck, order takeout, or have a simple theme. Just remember, the point is togetherness, not perfection.
If hosting isn’t your thing, plan a group outing. Try a Thanksgiving prix fixe menu at a favorite restaurant, a cozy cafe meetup, or even a post-meal walk. Friendsgiving is about connection, comfort, and creating your own version of the holiday.
4. Take a trip
Traveling when you’re alone on Thanksgiving can be incredibly freeing. It doesn’t have to extravagant, but if you do want to go big, you can consider a:
- Long-weekend city escape to Chicago, Austin or NYC
- Sunny getaway to Miami, San Diego, or Puerto Rico
- Cozy mountain retreat to Aspen or Lake Tahoe
- Quick international trip to a destination that won’t even be thinking about Thanksgiving
Prefer to avoid the airport chaos? Try a smaller adventure, such as a:
- Scenic fall hike
- Cabin or spa weekend
- Nearby boutique hotel staycation
- Day trip to a charming town for coffee, shopping, or visiting a museum
A change of scenery can transform the holiday from something you endure into something you truly enjoy.
5. Juggling Thanksgiving obligations
Thanksgiving can feel complicated for single parents, especially when schedules or responsibilities are shared. Expectations around the holidays typically add stress, but approaching the day with clarity and compassion can make everything smoother.
Try to be fair, flexible, and empathetic. Whether you’re dividing Thanksgiving day or alternating holidays throughout the year, balance helps everyone feel supported and leads to a calmer holiday overall.
Finding joy in your own Thanksgiving
Whether you’re celebrating with friends, traveling, volunteering, or enjoying peaceful time alone, Thanksgiving doesn’t need to fit a stereotype to be meaningful. And if the holiday has you thinking about what’s ahead, that’s something to embrace. A lot can change between now and next Thanksgiving, and that includes your love life.
Who knows? By next Thanksgiving, you could have someone new at your table.
