Ideas for a Solo Christmas

How to Enjoy a Festive Feast on Your Own

Spending Christmas alone doesn’t mean missing out on the joy and magic of the season. In fact, it’s an opportunity to create a celebration that’s uniquely yours—filled with all the things you love, from cozy decorations to a personalized feast. If you’re searching for ideas for a solo Christmas, start with a festive meal tailored just for you.

As a single person, I’ve spent many holidays solo but I always made them special. They weren’t always a big production but just unique in some way.

Here’s how to make your solo holiday special, delicious, and memorable.

1. Set the Scene

A solo Christmas feast is more than just food; it’s about creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. Start by decorating your space with festive touches like twinkling lights, candles, or a mini Christmas tree. Lay the table with your favorite dinnerware, add a holiday-themed napkin, and include a simple centerpiece—like a jar of ornaments or a sprig of fresh pine.

Music or movies can help enhance the festive mood. Put on your favorite Christmas playlist, stream a holiday classic, or let the sounds of a crackling fireplace (virtual or real!) fill the room.

2. Plan a Delicious Menu

When celebrating solo, you have the luxury of indulging in exactly what you want. No compromises, no dietary restrictions to consider—just a meal that brings you joy. Below is a complete menu with recipes that are easy to prepare, perfectly portioned, and packed with festive flavors.

Appetizer: Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

Start with a comforting soup that’s quick to make and feels indulgent.

Ingredients:

2 cups canned diced tomatoes
1 cup vegetable broth
1/2 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk)
1 clove garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (or 1 tsp dried basil)
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
Add tomatoes and broth, then bring to a simmer. Stir in basil and cook for 10 minutes.
Blend the soup until smooth. Return to the pot, stir in cream, and season with salt and pepper.
Serve warm with crusty bread or crackers.

Main Course: Herb-Roasted Cornish Hen

For the main dish, a Cornish hen is the perfect size for one while still feeling like a holiday centerpiece.

Ingredients:

1 Cornish hen (about 1.5 lbs)
2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried rosemary
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 lemon, sliced
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Pat the hen dry, rub it with olive oil or butter, and season with thyme, rosemary, garlic, salt, and pepper.
Stuff the cavity with lemon slices and place the hen on a roasting pan.
Roast for 45-55 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Sides:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Mash 2 small boiled potatoes with butter, cream, and roasted garlic.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Toss halved sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast until crispy.
Classic Stuffing: Toast a slice of bread, cube it, and mix with sautéed onions, celery, and chicken broth. Bake in a small dish until golden.

Dessert: Single-Serve Molten Lava Cake

End your feast with a decadent dessert that’s perfectly portioned for one.

Ingredients:

2 oz dark chocolate, chopped
2 tbsp unsalted butter
1 egg
2 tbsp sugar
1 tbsp flour
Pinch of salt
Powdered sugar or whipped cream for topping

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease a small ramekin.
Melt chocolate and butter together, stirring until smooth.
Whisk egg and sugar until pale, then fold in the chocolate mixture.
Stir in flour and salt. Pour batter into ramekin and bake for 10-12 minutes, until edges are set but the center is gooey.
Let cool briefly, then top with powdered sugar or whipped cream.

3. Add a Personal Twist

One of the best ideas for a solo Christmas is to make the day truly your own. Skip the traditional turkey if it doesn’t appeal to you and try something unconventional—like a seafood feast, a vegetarian spread, or a favorite dish from your travels. Want to skip cooking altogether? Order your favorite takeout and enjoy it on your finest china. For me, my go to favorite is a ribeye steak!

This is your chance to break the mold and do what feels special to you.

4. Elevate the Experience

Even when dining alone, treat the occasion with care. Light a candle, pour a glass of wine, or make a festive cocktail like a cranberry spritzer. Don’t have wine? A mug of hot spiced cider or cocoa topped with whipped cream can feel just as indulgent. Use your nicest dinnerware, even if it’s just for you—it’s a small act that can make the meal feel more celebratory.

Cranberry Orange Holiday Sparkler

Ingredients:

2 oz cranberry juice
1 oz fresh orange juice
1 oz vodka (optional for a non-alcoholic version, omit vodka and add extra sparkling water)
4 oz sparkling water or prosecco
1 tsp simple syrup (adjust to taste)
Ice cubes
Fresh cranberries and a slice of orange for garnish
A sprig of fresh rosemary

Instructions:

Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. (I love this little individual one I have!) Add cranberry juice, orange juice, vodka, and simple syrup. Shake well until chilled.
Strain the mixture into a festive glass filled with ice.
Top with sparkling water or prosecco, gently stirring to combine.
Garnish with a few floating cranberries, a slice of orange, and a sprig of rosemary for a fragrant and decorative touch.

5. Stay Connected

If you’re missing the usual holiday chatter, consider connecting with loved ones virtually. Share your meal via video call or exchange photos of your dishes. Hosting a virtual cooking session with friends or family is another great way to feel connected while enjoying your solo celebration.

6. Reflect on the Season

A solo Christmas is a chance to pause and reflect. Take a moment before your meal to think about the year behind you and your hopes for the future. Writing down your reflections can turn into a meaningful holiday tradition. I journal daily so I love looking back on some of my special solo celebrations.

7. Enjoy Post-Dinner Festivities

After your feast, wind down with activities you love. Watch a holiday classic, curl up with a good book, or take a stroll to admire Christmas lights. If you enjoy being creative, try a DIY holiday project or bake extra cookies to enjoy later.

8. Share the Joy

Spreading cheer is one of the most fulfilling ideas for a solo Christmas. Bake a batch of cookies for a neighbor, donate to a local food bank, or send handwritten holiday cards to brighten someone else’s day. Small acts of kindness can make your holiday feel more connected and meaningful.

Final Thoughts

Spending Christmas solo can be a time of peace, indulgence, and joy. By creating a festive atmosphere, planning a delicious menu, and embracing activities you love, you can make your solo celebration one to remember. Whether you follow traditional ideas or carve your own path, this holiday is all about celebrating you.