The Best Ways to Celebrate Thanksgiving (When You Can’t Go Home)

Friendly girls and guys sitting at Thanksgiving table and talking while having dinnerThanksgiving is almost here—can you believe it? Maybe you’re already looking at your holiday plans, and you’re finding that work, school, or even crazy weather are making it difficult to pack up and head home for turkey time. If you’re not able to make the trek to be with your family for Thanksgiving this year, don’t worry! Check out a few of our favorite ways to celebrate Thanksgiving at your home away from home—your apartment!

1. Have a “Friendsgiving” celebration.

Odds are good that you’re not the only one staying put around your apartment or community this Thanksgiving. Find a few other friends and apartment neighbors who aren’t leaving town for Thanksgiving, and celebrate together! Spruce up your apartment with some harvest-themed décor, and invite everyone to bring a dish or dessert. Break out some board games or holiday movies for a full day of gobbles and giggles!

2. Volunteer in your community.

Maybe you’ve been itching to help others in your area for a while, or maybe you haven’t considered it yet. Either way, Thanksgiving is a wonderful day to volunteer your time and energy at a homeless shelter or charity organization close to your apartment. Nothing spreads the warmth of the holidays like showing others that they matter in this world!

3. Call your friends and family.

You may be far away, but that doesn’t mean you have to be disconnected! Your family and friends would love to hear from you, so call your grandma and catch up, or have a video call with your college roommate. Use your day off to reconnect with those you love!

4. Take some “you time.”

If you’ve been working or studying nonstop lately, the Thanksgiving holiday can give you an opportunity to slow down. Stay in your pajamas all day, watch a parade (or three!) on television, and cook yourself a delicious meal. An easy day off to hang around your apartment could be just the thing your body and mind need.

5. Pause to be truly thankful.

Thanksgiving is a time to remember what we’re thankful for in life, so get back to the root of the holiday’s purpose. Whether it’s through journaling, talking to a friend, or just reflecting by yourself, take time to remember what it is you’re thankful for this year. You could even write friends and family a note to let them know how grateful you are for them. Spread the love by stopping to say “thank you” in some way on this Thanksgiving holiday.

As Thanksgiving approaches, maybe you’re glad to live a sizable difference away from crazy uncle Larry and his fruitcake. Or, maybe you miss your family dearly, and you want to move closer to the people that matter most. Wherever your heart takes you, ApartmentSearch can help you find apartments for rent. Find your next apartment in your ideal city today on ApartmentSearch.com–the only apartment finder website that actually rewards you for using it!