Many people find themselves far from family and friends when Thanksgiving arrives. It may seem impossible to celebrate alone, but believe it or not, there are plenty of fun and fulfilling ways to give thanks when you're by yourself. Before we begin, get yourself in the Thanksgiving mood by reading Giving Thanks: How Gratitude Can Improve Your Life.
SOCIAL GROUPS
Lots of social groups hold Thanksgiving dinners. For example, if you're a vegetarian, senior, veteran or belong to a religious group, there's probably a local Thanksgiving you can attend.
Try typing your city followed by "group thanksgiving" into Google. Our search brought listings for Thanksgiving celebrations being planned by cycling groups, painters, cooks, singles and dog owners, among many others. Be sure to look through at least several pages of search results.
CHARITABLE ACTS
Actions speak louder than words. One of the best ways to give thanks is to help others. Non-profits that help the poor, the homeless, seniors, hospice clients, abused children and many others are nearly always in need of volunteers around Thanksgiving. Find an organization that you'd like to help by looking here.
CELEBRATE WITH A FRIEND
You probably know other people who have no Thanksgiving plans. Invite them to celebrate with you using these ideas. (Some are also fun solo):
GO SOLO
If none of the above appeals to you, there's still a fun way to celebrate... Spoil yourself! You're a grown-up, and no-one can tell you what to eat, where to go, what to do or when to go to bed. Spend the day reminding yourself just how lucky you are.
Here's some mix and match ideas:
Gee, with a list like this, Thanksgiving alone is starting to sound pretty good! You should end up with plenty to be thankful for. ;)
