The holiday season after my husband and I got married was the first Thanksgiving and Christmas I spent without my family in my life. I remember feeling so isolated more than 5,000 miles from all the people I loved, thinking, “Surely, this has to get easier,” but I found myself moping more times than I cared to admit during November and December. It didn’t help that I was used to snowy and cold holidays and the only white Christmas Hawaii was offering was white sand beaches and an endless loop of Mele Kalikimaka.
Fast forward more than a decade later, I can honestly say: It does get easier. Also – Hawaii is a truly dreamy place to spend the holidays.
Part of what makes spending holidays apart from those you love most is finding joy in the season and creating lasting memories in the process. Whether you’re a new spouse seeking support or a seasoned spouse navigating a new duty station, here are eleven tips for celebrating the holidays when you’re far away.
11 Tips For Celebrating The Holidays When You’re Far From “Home”
Create New Traditions
Start a unique holiday tradition that’s special to your family. Whether it’s cooking a new dish, playing a new-to-you game, or decorating in a specific theme, these new traditions can make the season memorable and distinct from previous years.
Virtual Celebrations with Extended Family
Schedule video calls to open presents together, share a meal, or even have a virtual game night. Set up a designated time to connect with loved ones, so everyone can participate, no matter the time zone.
Decorate with Meaning
Incorporate decor that reminds you of home or past holidays. Photos of family members, cherished ornaments, or handmade crafts can bring a sense of connection to your current space and make home feel a little closer.
Involve the Community
Participate in local community events or organize a potluck with other military families. Sharing the season with others who understand your situation can create a supportive – and festive – environment. Plus, it’s a great way to meet your neighbors, especially if you live on a military base.
Send and Receive Holiday Packages
Exchange care packages with family and friends back home. Include homemade treats, personalized gifts, and notes. Don’t forget to decorate the outside of the box!
Document the Experience
Keep a holiday journal or create a scrapbook with photos, ticket stubs, and notes from the season. This will help you and your family remember the unique ways you celebrated together, no matter where you were. Being able to look back on this at the end of your spouse’s career will no doubt be a highlight!
Plan a Special Meal
Cook or bake something that feels like home, or try out a new recipe together as a family. Sharing a meal, whether traditional or experimental, can make the day feel festive and special. If you have too many cookies or baked one too many loaves of bread, turn the treats into presents for neighbors, friends, or gate guards who might be working over the holidays.
Celebrate Local Customs
Embrace the traditions and customs of the place you’re stationed. Whether it’s attending a local festival or trying out regional dishes, this can make the holiday season feel special in its own way.
Create a Holiday Countdown
Build anticipation by creating a countdown calendar leading up to the holiday. Include small treats, activities, or notes of appreciation for each day to keep the holiday spirit alive throughout the season. Plus, it gives everyone in the family something to look forward to!
Send Holiday Cards
Take the time to write and send personalized holiday cards to family and friends. Including a family update or a special note can make loved ones feel connected, even from afar. For those who plan ahead, most card companies, like Minted and Snapfish, offer considerable discounts on photo cards.
Plan a Future Celebration
If you can’t be together now and it’s just not sitting right, plan a “second” holiday for when you reunite. Knowing that you’ll have another opportunity to celebrate can make the distance easier to bear.