{"id":637,"date":"2024-11-14T13:29:31","date_gmt":"2024-11-14T18:29:31","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogs.uml.edu\/wellbeing\/?p=637"},"modified":"2024-11-14T13:39:48","modified_gmt":"2024-11-14T18:39:48","slug":"making-the-most-of-the-holidays-fun-tips-for-those-living-far-from-home","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blogs.uml.edu\/wellbeing\/2024\/11\/14\/making-the-most-of-the-holidays-fun-tips-for-those-living-far-from-home\/","title":{"rendered":"Making the Most of the Holidays: Fun Tips for Those Living Far From Home"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

By:<\/strong> Angel Molekunnel, Manning School of Business Well-Being Leader<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The holiday season, especially times like Thanksgiving, can feel a bit lonely if you\u2019re an international student or living far from family, but it doesn\u2019t have to be! This is the perfect opportunity to create new traditions, explore local customs, and build lasting friendships. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Here are some ideas to make your holiday break fun, memorable, and heartwarming\u2014even if your family is miles away:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Host a \u201cFriendsgiving\u201d<\/strong><\/h1>\n\n\n\n

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\u2019t 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. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If cooking isn\u2019t your thing, check out local restaurants offering Thanksgiving specials. Many places will let you order a \u201cThanksgiving to-go\u201d if you reserve early enough. This website includes information about Thanksgiving specials in the Greater Lowell region:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

https:\/\/lowell.macaronikid.com\/articles\/5fa9eab21cc92c61be29f0de\/where-to-order-a-thanksgiving-dinner-to-go-in-greater-lowell<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Try Out a Holiday Movie Marathon<\/strong><\/h1>\n\n\n\n

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\u2019re with friends, take turns picking movies and make an international movie night out of it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tip: You can get free popcorn on Fridays from the Club Hub, located on the 2nd floor of University Crossing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Explore Local Traditions<\/strong><\/h1>\n\n\n\n

Thanksgiving and the holiday season come with a lot of unique local traditions. Explore events happening around your area\u2014many 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If the weather\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Here are some fun upcoming activities to do in Lowell:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

City of Lights<\/strong>
<\/strong>November 30 | Downtown Lowell
Lowell\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

https:\/\/www.lowellcityoflights.org\/<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Culinary Celebration
<\/strong>December 12 | Lowell Memorial Auditorium, 50 E. Merrimack St
The Culinary Celebration showcases Lowell\u2019s unique and diverse food scene, and features live music.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

https:\/\/www.lowellma.gov\/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=891 <\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Set Up Virtual Hangouts with Loved Ones<\/strong><\/h1>\n\n\n\n

Even if you\u2019re 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\u2019s through a screen. You could also coordinate a shared activity, like watching the same movie or playing an online game together. If there\u2019s a traditional dish or drink you all love, prepare it simultaneously for a sense of shared experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\/<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Give Back to Your Community<\/strong><\/h1>\n\n\n\n

Many local organizations look for volunteers during the holiday season. Volunteering can help you feel connected to your temporary \u201chome away from home\u201d and give a new sense of purpose to your holidays. Plus, it\u2019s a fantastic way to meet people, learn about the local community, and make a difference!<\/p>\n\n\n\n