Non-Traditional Ways to Celebrate the Holidays

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The rush of Thanksgiving and Black Friday have cleared. We’ve stuffed our faces, spent time with loved ones, and emptied our pockets. And just as everything is calming down, it’s time to prepare for Christmas/Hannukkah/Kwanzaa.

The holidays are a special time for some but can be difficult for those who have lost or do not have family. If this is you, or someone in your circle, it’s important to find other ways to celebrate the holidays. Celebrating the holidays in non-traditional ways can be a great way to avoid seasonal depression or the Grinch Syndrome. Even if you’re just looking to switch things up, consider adding one (or all) of the following activities to your holiday schedule.

Wine & Dine Somewhere New

One of my favorite things about the holidays is food! If you’re having a non-traditional holiday celebration, consider going out for a nice meal somewhere new. This holiday season, I visited Texas De Brazil for the first time. Texas De Brazil is a Brazilian steakhouse where the meat is presented to you and carved table side.  The restaurant also features a salad bar that includes charcuterie, fruit, and their famous lobster bisque! From lamb to steak to chicken, the meal was definitely great and presented a new experience. My favorite part was their homemade limeade! I had the passionfruit flavor while my boyfriend order coconut. Extremely refreshing and tasty! The restaurant in DC has great ambiance so it’s a nice spot for a celebration.

Party with Friends

A big trend I noticed this year was people hosting “Friendsgiving” celebrations. Similar to a traditional Thanksgiving celebration, a group of friends get together to eat, drink, and be merry! This often includes dinner, games, and of course drinks. Consider hosting a holiday game night or ugly sweater party with some of your closest friends. Being around those you love is a great way to avoid depression and catching the Ba humbug! If you don’t want to stay in plan a happy hour. The options are limitless. Have fun with it!

Give Back

The holidays are all about giving. Finding a shelter to volunteer with or organizing a toy drive is a great tradition to add to your non-traditional holiday. Many are less fortunate during this time of year and there are tons of ways you can give back. Some shelters are open on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day for volunteers to help provide meals. You could also organize a drive for clothes, toys, or toiletries. Whatever you like! Your gift and your time are plenty to someone who may be struggling this holiday. And you’ll feel great afterwards!

Get Away

A trip is always great to clear your mind. While holiday airfare may be expense this time of year there’s always roundtrips! Find a cabin or lake house for a quick get weekend getaway. You may even be able to find a good deal on a cruise or be able to spring for a flight. However you choose to vacation make it happen! Alone or with a group of friends. I had a wonderful time on my trip to Deep Creek Lake last month and would definitely recommend it if you’ve never been!

What traditions have you added to your holiday celebrations? Let me know in the comments!