How to spend Thanksgiving alone in an unfamiliar city

For many people, the holiday season is a time to spend with family and friends. But what if you're a designer who is spending Thanksgiving alone in an unfamiliar city? Whether you're new to town or just don't have any close relatives or friends nearby, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the holiday. Here are a few suggestions for how to spend Thanksgiving alone in an unfamiliar city.

Ralph Waldo Emerson —

I awoke this morning with devout thanksgiving for my friends, the old and the new.

1. Volunteer at a local soup kitchen or food bank. Giving back is always a rewarding experience, and it's even more special during the holidays. Spending a few hours helping out at a local soup kitchen or food bank is a great way to connect with your community and make new friends. Plus, you'll be making a difference in the lives of those less fortunate.

2. Attend a Thanksgiving Day parade or other holiday-themed event. Most cities host some kind of Thanksgiving Day parade or other holiday event. This is a great way to get into the holiday spirit and enjoy some festive fun. Even if you don't know anyone else there, you're sure to meet some friendly people along the way.

3. Go for a nature walk or explore a new part of town. If you're feeling cabin feverish, get out of the house and explore your surroundings. Take a nature hike in a nearby park, stroll through a nearby neighborhood you've never been to before, or visit a local museum or art gallery. Getting out and about is a great way to ward off holiday loneliness.

4. Make yourself a special Thanksgiving feast. Just because you're alone doesn't mean you can't enjoy a delicious Thanksgiving meal. Treat yourself to all your favorite holiday foods and make yourself a feast fit for a king or queen! You can even watch your favorite Thanksgiving movie while you eat (we recommend "A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving" or "Home Alone").

5. Invite others to join you for Thanksgiving dinner. Just because you don't have any close relatives or friends nearby doesn't mean there aren't other people in your situation. Reach out to your co-workers, neighbors, or fellow students and see if anyone else is interested in spending Thanksgiving together. You may be surprised at how many people are looking for someone to share the day with.

Whatever you do this Thanksgiving, remember that it's okay to spend the day alone if that's what you want or need to do. There are plenty of ways to enjoy the holiday solo, from volunteering your time to exploring your surroundings. And who knows? You might even make some new friends along the way!