Things to do if spending Xmas alone

Christmas Day is meant to be cherished with your loved ones, but in some cases, this does not happen. Certain professions demand that people be at work on Christmas Day, and many people don’t have families and friends.

The Record has compiled a list of ideas to help you cope with spending Christmas alone.

1. Visit a restaurant

If you have the means to pay for your own meal, it might be worth visiting a restaurant for your Christmas Day meal so that you are surrounded by people. It might also give you the opportunity to start up a conversation with some other merry souls.

Some restaurants even offer meals for free to those who are homeless or elderly.

2. Hosted Christmas meals

It might be worth having a quick Google for organisations who set-up ‘hosted’ Christmas meals, which would mean going to another family’s house to enjoy a meal with them.

The charity Community Christmas hosts a Christmas lunch to provide companionship for older people.

3. Churches and community centres

In the lead-up to Christmas, visit local churches and community centres, as they often advertise events running on Christmas Day that you might be interested in attending.

4. Spend time with someone else who is lonely

Seek out other people in the community who might be lonely. Maybe an elderly widow/ widower? You could offer to cook them dinner.

5. Walk outside

Wander around in nature on Christmas Day, as you never know who you could meet or talk to. It becomes easier to mingle with strangers if you have a dog – just FYI.

6. Volunteer

Seek out volunteering opportunities close to you if you are able. You might meet like-minded people, or it might take your mind off spending the day alone if you are busy helping others.