Let’s be real, Christmas alone can sound a little depressing at first. You’ve got people posting cute couple photos in matching sweaters, families on their way to picture-perfect gatherings, and then there’s you, at home, thinking, “Well… I guess it’s just me and Netflix.”
But hold on a sec, why not make this solo Christmas the best one yet?
I’ve spent my share of Christmases alone and they weren’t half-bad. In fact, they were awesome. No arguing over who’s cutting the turkey or being guilt-tripped into playing charades with people you barely know.
You can do whatever the hell you want! So, grab some hot cocoa, pull on your coziest socks, and let’s dive into 25 fun solo date ideas that will make your Christmas one for the books.
1. Movie Marathon in Your PJs
Do you know those movie marathons where you just lounge in your comfiest PJs and binge-watch all your favorite films guilt-free? Yeah, do that. One Christmas, I spent the entire day in my flannel pajamas, devouring the Lord of the Rings trilogy. Zero regrets.
2. Bake Yourself a Ridiculous Dessert
Go all out and bake something that’s just ridiculous—I’m talking a cake with layers upon layers, dripping with frosting, and topped with more decorations than you’ll ever need.
3. Go Ice Skating Solo
Head to a local rink, skate around and pretend you’re in one of those cheesy holiday rom-coms. The best part? You can fall flat on your face, and no one will know.
4. Create a Spa Day at Home
I once spent an entire Christmas pampering myself—think face masks, bubble baths, and enough candles to make the room look like a spa. It’s the ultimate way to unwind, and you’ll feel like a million bucks by the end of the day.
5. Go for a Nature Walk
There’s something peaceful about walking through a snowy park or forest on Christmas morning. Bundle up, grab a thermos of hot chocolate, and enjoy the silence.
6. Build a Gingerbread House
Sure, it may collapse halfway through, but that’s half the fun. Last Christmas, I made a gingerbread house that looked more like a gingerbread shack, but you know what? It tasted amazing, and I didn’t have to share a single bite.
7. Start a New Book
Christmas is the perfect day to dive into a book you’ve been dying to read. One time, I devoured Daring Greatly by Brené Brown. Not your typical Christmas read, but it was a game-changer.
8. Take a Day Trip
Pack some snacks, hit the road, and explore a nearby town. I once drove to a little seaside town and spent the afternoon by myself, eating fish and chips by the water. It was unexpectedly one of my best Christmases.
9. Do a Holiday Photoshoot
Dress up or get cozy in your favorite Christmas PJs, and have a little photoshoot in your living room.
10. Try a New Recipe
Get adventurous in the kitchen and whip up something new. Last Christmas, I tried making beef Wellington, and while it wasn’t Gordon Ramsay level, it tasted pretty damn good.
11. Watch the Sunrise
This might sound cheesy, but trust me—it’s worth it. Grab a blanket, some coffee, and watch the sunrise on Christmas morning. It’s a quiet, peaceful moment that can set the tone for the rest of the day.
12. Decorate for Yourself
Even if you’re spending the day solo, put up some decorations. I decked out my apartment last year, and it instantly put me in a better mood. Christmas lights have that effect.
13. Order Fancy Takeout
Treat yourself to a delicious meal from your favorite restaurant, or splurge on something fancy that you wouldn’t normally get. The best part about eating solo? You don’t have to share your fries.
14. Get Crafty
I’m not usually the crafty type, but one Christmas, I decided to make my own holiday cards. They were far from perfect, but it was oddly therapeutic, and my friends loved them.
15. Holiday Drink Tasting
Try out different holiday-themed drinks, like mulled wine, spiked eggnog, or peppermint hot chocolate. Last year, I made a boozy hot cocoa that was basically dessert in a mug. Best. Decision. Ever.
16. Write a Letter to Your Future Self
Take a moment to reflect on the past year and write yourself a letter to open next Christmas. I did this a couple of years ago, and when I opened it the following year, it was like hearing from an old friend.
17. Plan a Future Adventure
Get a head start on your travel plans for the new year. I spent one Christmas planning a solo trip to Italy, and the excitement of future adventures kept my holiday spirits high.
18. Throw a One-Person Dance Party
Blast some holiday tunes (or whatever you’re into) and dance around your living room like no one’s watching—because no one is!
19. Do a Puzzle
There’s something oddly satisfying about working on a puzzle during the holidays. One time, I tackled a 1,000-piece puzzle of a winter scene, and it was the perfect way to zone out and relax.
20. Make Your Own Holiday Playlist
Create a custom playlist of your favorite holiday songs (or any songs, really), and let it be the soundtrack to your solo Christmas. I’ve been curating mine for years, and it’s one of my favorite holiday traditions.
21. Try Your Hand at Knitting
Okay, I know this sounds super random, but hear me out. I learned to knit one Christmas, and it was surprisingly calming. Plus, I ended up with a cozy scarf by the end of the day.
22. Watch a Cheesy Christmas Movie
Embrace the holiday spirit and watch the cheesiest Christmas movie you can find. I’m talking about The Princess Switch-level cheese. You’ll laugh, you’ll cringe, and you’ll love every second of it.
23. Journal About the Year
Take some time to reflect on the past year. Write down your highs, your lows, and everything in between. It’s a great way to wrap up the year and set some intentions for the next one.
24. Volunteer
If you’re looking for a way to spread some holiday cheer, consider volunteering. It’s a great way to give back, and it’ll warm your heart in ways you didn’t expect.
25. Have a Solo Dance Party
Crank up your favorite songs, dance around your house like a maniac, and just have fun. Trust me—it’s the best way to end your solo Christmas on a high note.
Christmas Alone Doesn’t Have To Be Lonely
Christmas alone doesn’t have to be lonely. It can be a time to relax, recharge, and do whatever makes you happy. So, embrace the solo life this holiday season, and remember—sometimes the best company you can have is your own.
