By: Angel Molekunnel, Manning School of Business Well-Being Leader
The holiday season, especially times like Thanksgiving, can feel a bit lonely if you’re an international student or living far from family, but it doesn’t have to be! This is the perfect opportunity to create new traditions, explore local customs, and build lasting friendships.
Here are some ideas to make your holiday break fun, memorable, and heartwarming—even if your family is miles away:
1. Host a “Friendsgiving”
One of the best ways to feel connected to those around you is by hosting a “friendsgiving.” Invite friends or classmates who might also be sticking around campus or living alone. You don’t have to make a traditional Thanksgiving meal either. Think about potluck-style, where everyone brings their own cultural dish, or try making some fusion dishes together.
If cooking isn’t your thing, check out local restaurants offering Thanksgiving specials. Many places will let you order a “Thanksgiving to-go” if you reserve early enough. This website includes information about Thanksgiving specials in the Greater Lowell region:
2. Try Out a Holiday Movie Marathon
Nothing brings the holiday vibes like cozying up to a good movie. Organize a movie marathon with holiday classics, movies from your country, or ones that remind you of home. If you’re with friends, take turns picking movies and make an international movie night out of it!
Tip: You can get free popcorn on Fridays from the Club Hub, located on the 2nd floor of University Crossing!
3. Explore Local Traditions
Thanksgiving and the holiday season come with a lot of unique local traditions. Explore events happening around your area—many towns and cities have parades, light displays, and other festive activities during the holidays. This is a great way to immerse yourself into an unfamiliar culture, and also gives you new stories to share with friends and family when you reconnect.
If the weather’s nice, consider going on a hike or checking out winter festivals. Many communities also have volunteer opportunities over Thanksgiving, which can be a fulfilling way to spend the holiday.
Here are some fun upcoming activities to do in Lowell:
City of Lights
November 30 | Downtown Lowell
Lowell’s annual City of Lights welcomes the holiday season with family-friendly activities, a parade that marches through historic downtown, and the lighting of City Hall.
https://www.lowellcityoflights.org/
Culinary Celebration
December 12 | Lowell Memorial Auditorium, 50 E. Merrimack St
The Culinary Celebration showcases Lowell’s unique and diverse food scene, and features live music.
https://www.lowellma.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=891
4. Set Up Virtual Hangouts with Loved Ones
Even if you’re far away, staying connected with loved ones virtually can still bring the holiday cheer. Schedule a video call with family and friends to share a meal or a special moment together, even if it’s through a screen. You could also coordinate a shared activity, like watching the same movie or playing an online game together. If there’s a traditional dish or drink you all love, prepare it simultaneously for a sense of shared experience.
This website can help you find your favorite virtual hangout idea! https://www.weidner.com/blog/2020/12/03/6-creative-virtual-hangouts-to-try-while-youre-social-distancing/
5. Give Back to Your Community
Many local organizations look for volunteers during the holiday season. Volunteering can help you feel connected to your temporary “home away from home” and give a new sense of purpose to your holidays. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to meet people, learn about the local community, and make a difference!
- Where to Look: Check with local shelters, food banks, or community centers—they often have holiday events where you can help out. To get started, you can check out some local food shelters here: https://www.findhelp.org/food/food-pantry–lowell-ma.
6. Take Time for Self-Care
With fewer responsibilities over the break, this is the perfect time to practice self-care. Use this opportunity to relax, recharge, and indulge in activities you don’t usually have time for during the school year. Whether it’s catching up on sleep, doing yoga, reading, or spending an afternoon at a local café, treat yourself to things that make you feel relaxed and happy.
One great way to practice self-care is by attending Well-being Events at UMass Lowell: https://www.uml.edu/wellbeing/programs-events/.
7. Get Creative with Holiday Crafts or DIY Decor
Decorate your space to bring some holiday spirit home! Get crafty by making simple decorations like paper snowflakes, holiday-themed candles, or a small wreath. Crafting can also be a fun group activity if you have friends around, but even if you’re doing it solo, it’s a calming way to add a little holiday magic to your home.
8. Check Out Local or Campus Events
If you’re on campus, check for any holiday activities the school may be offering. Sometimes, they’ll organize special meals, events, or trips for students who stay over the holidays. If you’re living in a community or city, look up local holiday markets, concerts, or craft fairs—these are perfect places to explore, find gifts, or just enjoy the festive spirit.
Here are some activities/events hosted by RHSA (River Hawks Scholars Academy), an academic success program for first-generation college students at UMass Lowell: https://www.uml.edu/academics/provost-office/student-success/scholars-academy/first-gen-week.aspx
Most importantly, approach the holidays with an open heart and mind. This might not be a traditional Thanksgiving or season spent with family, but it can still be meaningful, fun, and full of new experiences. Try to appreciate these moments as chances to grow, learn, and make beautiful memories of your own.
Even if you’re far from loved ones, the holiday season can still be filled with warmth, joy, and a sense of community. Whether you’re creating a new tradition, exploring the local holiday scene, or connecting virtually with loved ones, there are endless ways to celebrate and make this time of year feel special. So, give these ideas a try and let this holiday season be an experience you’ll remember fondly.