How to Have an Intimate Holiday

Holidays this year are challenging, especially if you're used to spending them at multiple households connecting with family and friends you might not get to see often. Even if you're spending this year alone or in a small circle, I think there are a lot of ways that you can still make the holiday season special to you!

For additional ideas, you can also check out my Thanksgiving post here!

1. Build a Gingerbread House

Even if you're spending Christmas with one other person or a small group this can be a nice little bonding activity - you can even turn it into a competition! If you're going solo, it can actually be pretty therapeutic. Play some music or your favorite shows in the background and have fun creating!

2. Play a Round of Board Games

My boyfriend and I are huge board game aficionados. We love playing with friends, but we also have some 2 player games so that we can still enjoy them without a group of people. Some good 2 player/small group games are:

• Codenames: Duet

• Exploding Kittens

• Monopoly

• Root

• Scattergories

• Boss Monster

We're even thinking of trying out chess soon! If you have a roommate or live with your SO this is a great choice for having some quality time together. Growing up, my family always played board games together over the holidays so this tradition is pretty special to me.

3. Virtual Christmas Party

If you're able to round up a crew, a virtual Christmas party can actually be a great idea! Have your guests wear ugly Christmas sweaters and make their favorite drinks/snacks. You can just talk or share Christmas traditions, songs, etc. You could even play a round of Jackbox games together or have everyone build a gingerbread house on camera as a friendly competition!

4. Enjoy a Day Off

While Christmas can be fun, most will agree that it can also be exhausting running around from place to place. An intimate holiday might actually be a blessing in disguise. If you have the day off just enjoy it! Bake, binge TV, play video games, throw yourself into your hobbies, etc. Maybe even plan a nice spa day for yourself and get some bath bombs, candles, face masks, a glass of wine and just enjoy a peaceful and silent night.

5. Have an Adventure

Sometimes it's nice to get away for the holidays especially if you're starting to feel restless. If you live in a warmer climate, it might be nice to take a little camping trip and get out in nature. Renting a cabin or staying at a fancy hotel in a different city can also be a good way to break routine and help you relax. Drive around the new city, look at Christmas lights, order from a local restaurant - just enjoy yourself!

No matter how you decide to spend your holiday, I hope you're able to make some time for yourself and relax as this year comes to a close. I wish you and your loved ones a healthy, safe, and peaceful new year!