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A solo Christmas doesn’t have to be lonely—here’s how to enjoy it

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A solo Christmas doesn’t have to be lonely—here’s how to enjoy it

  • Maan
  • By Maan
1760069319007.png A solo Christmas doesn’t have to be lonely—here’s how to enjoy it
When Christmas morning feels a little too quiet. Image source: Pexels/cottonbro studio | Disclaimer: This is a stock image used for illustrative purposes only and does not depict the actual person, item, or event described.

For many Australians, Christmas is the grand finale of the year—a season filled with family gatherings, feasting, and, for some, a fair bit of forced cheer.


But what if this time, the day finds you alone?


The idea might sound daunting at first, especially when the world feels wrapped up in togetherness and tinsel.




Yet spending Christmas solo can be surprisingly rewarding—an opportunity to create a day that’s entirely your own, full of joy, rest, and maybe even a little magic.





Feast on What You Love


Christmas is synonymous with food, but who says you must follow the traditional roast-and-pudding rulebook?


This is your chance to design a menu that’s all about you.


Order your favourite takeaway (Chinese food on Christmas is a quiet cult favourite for many), cook something indulgent with the good olive oil, or prepare a platter of snacks you adore.


Forget expectations—eat what makes you happy.



Indulge in Self-Care


While it might be tempting to go full #HomeAlone and binge on chocolate in front of the TV, sprinkle your day with a little self-care.


Run a hot bath with Epsom salts, meditate, or write down your thoughts as the year winds down.


Even gentle movement—like stretching or yoga—can lift your mood.


Remember, self-care isn’t selfish; it’s essential, especially during the holidays.




Invent Your Own Traditions


A solo Christmas means you get to call every shot.


Want to start your morning with a sunrise swim or a long walk along the beach? Do it.


Prefer a movie marathon or a quiet spa day? That’s just as valid.


Some cinemas and spas stay open on Christmas Day, so treat yourself if you’d like.


You could also volunteer at a local charity—helping others can fill your day with connection and meaning.



Dress for the Occasion


It’s easy to lounge in pyjamas all day, but getting dressed—even just slipping into a favourite shirt or a silly Christmas jumper—can make the day feel more festive.


Dressing up for yourself is an act of self-celebration and can lift your confidence.


Plus, you might want to snap a selfie to remember your unique Christmas.




Give Social Media a Rest


Scrolling through endless pictures of big family gatherings can sting when you’re on your own.


Consider giving social media a rest for the day.


Instead, lose yourself in a good book, binge your favourite series, or play music that makes you smile.


What you see online is often a highlight reel, not reality.



Treat Yourself to a Change of Scenery


If you’re feeling adventurous, use Christmas as an excuse to get away.


Many hotels offer festive packages that include meals and activities.


Or you can take yourself on a 'holiday at home'—visit a new park, explore your city, or have a picnic outdoors.


Sometimes, a simple change of surroundings can make all the difference.




Embrace the Great Outdoors


There’s something magical about Christmas morning walks—the streets are quiet, the air feels crisp, and the world slows down just a little.


Whether you stroll through your neighbourhood admiring lights or wander along a bush track, getting outside can refresh your spirit.



Reflect and Plan for the Year Ahead


A solo Christmas gives you the rare gift of time.


Use it to reflect on the year that’s passed and imagine what’s next.


Write goals, start that creative project, or map out travel dreams for the year ahead.


Every ending is also a beginning.




Connect with Community—Virtually or Locally


Being solo doesn’t mean being isolated.


Across Australia, many councils and community centres host online Christmas events—from trivia nights to carol singalongs.


If you’re craving company, check out social media groups or community noticeboards for local gatherings and walks for solo celebrants.


Even a video call or a radio program can remind you that you’re part of something bigger.



Rediscover the Joy of Giving—Random Acts of Kindness


Spreading kindness can turn a lonely day into something truly special.


Bake biscuits for a neighbour, write a card to someone spending the holidays alone, or leave a small gift for a stranger to find.


Some people craft care packages for hospitals or aged care homes.


Even a small donation or gesture of goodwill can spark a sense of joy and belonging.




Create a Christmas Time Capsule


A solo Christmas is a perfect moment to start a tradition that’s just yours.


Gather mementos from your year—photos, a newspaper clipping, or a letter to your future self—and seal them in a jar or box to open next Christmas.


Over time, this little ritual becomes a personal story of growth and celebration.



Single at Christmas? Here’s the Silver Lining


Being single at Christmas can feel tough when everyone else seems coupled up.


But there’s freedom in it too—no awkward in-laws, no pressure to please anyone else, and total control over your plans.


Remember, solitude and loneliness are not the same thing.




If Loneliness Creeps In


Even the most independent spirits can feel lonely sometimes.


If that happens, reach out to friends or volunteer to connect with others.


Acts of service often ease sadness.


And when the silence settles, embrace it—there’s beauty in a quiet Christmas too.



Your Christmas, Your Way


Ultimately, a solo Christmas is whatever you make it—a blank canvas waiting for your colours.


Whether you spend it indulging, reflecting, or simply resting, remember this: there’s no wrong way to celebrate when the day is truly yours.



What This Means For You


Spending Christmas alone can be deeply fulfilling when you allow the day to reflect your own tastes and values—whether that means feasting on favourite foods, inventing small rituals that bring you joy, or using the quiet to reflect and recharge.


Prioritising wellbeing through gentle self-care, mindful movement and intentional reflection turns the day from merely empty into purposefully peaceful.


Stepping away from social media and reconnecting with nature, neighbours or community initiatives can transform solitude into a restorative, even soulful, experience.


Above all, being alone does not have to mean lonely—solo Christmases can be meaningful, empowering and a chance to celebrate yourself on your own terms.


For older Australians reading this, that might look like swapping a heavy roast for a light seafood platter you actually enjoy, joining a local community centre’s Christmas lunch, taking a short sunrise walk along the beach to watch the day begin, or ringing a grandchild for a shared story over the phone.


Small acts—baking a batch of biscuits to leave with a neighbour, volunteering for a couple of hours, or starting a yearly time capsule—can root the day in connection and purpose.


Making choices that suit your energy and comforts will help this Christmas feel less like an obligation and more like a gentle, well-earned celebration of you.




If spending Christmas alone has you thinking about how solitude affects daily life beyond the holidays, you’re not alone in wondering what that means for emotional wellbeing.


Loneliness can quietly settle in even when life seems busy or full, often hiding behind routines and familiar places.


This next story explores how isolation takes root in our communities—and reveals a simple, heartwarming way to ease its hold.



Read more: The loneliness epidemic hiding in our suburbs (and the surprisingly simple cure)



Have you ever spent Christmas alone? What helped you make the day special?

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