Ah, the holidays. The season when the label “single” unfairly takes on the connotation of loneliness and misery.
Yet, it doesn’t have to be this way.
Prove the cynics wrong this holiday season by embracing the single-ness and shifting to a mindset that fosters self-growth. Embody the spirit of the season with your friends by taking part in winter activities.
Thankfully for you, Boston is filled with a myriad of activities that are waiting for your presence. Without further ado, here are eight holiday date ideas that you can take your friends on when you don’t have someone special.
Winter Markets
Turn gift-giving into a team effort by shopping Boston’s collection of winter markets. Littered throughout the city, these shops feature local artisans and neighborhood creators from hundreds of small businesses.
Seeking daily, weekly, or monthly pop-ups? Boston’s got it all. Now until the end of the holiday season, Seaport takes on the name of “Snowport” as it has been transformed into a daily winter wonderland of shops.
Returning once again at Time Out Market, the Fenway Market has banded together a list of vendors to shop from on Dec. 10.
In addition to daily and weekly pop-ups, the Brighton Bazaar is hosting its next monthly showcase on Dec. 15. Over 50 small businesses will be in attendance as they bring forward their best food, art, vinyl, vintage clothing and more.
Ice skating
What screams wintertime more than ice skating and drinking hot chocolate? Grab your friends for some laps around the Frog Pond in the center of the Boston Common or at The Rink at 401 Park in Time Out Market. When you start to freeze, head to the nearby cafes to defrost with some hot cocoa.
Afternoon Tea
Dust off your most elegant outfit and perfect your British accent at Trifecta’s Afternoon Tea. Friday through Sunday, the restaurant hosts seating times that offer an indulgent spread of freshly baked scones, finger sandwiches and decadent desserts. Don’t forget to put your pinkies up when trying their selection of tea with flavors ranging from Cranberry Apple Spice to Citrus Mint.
Stargaze
Instead of turning to the internet for astrological information, head to Boston University’s Public Open Night on top of the Physics Research Building for the chance to get a closer look at the night sky for yourself.
Every Wednesday — weather permitting — the astronomy department arranges an observation night at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are free, but booking a seat in advance is advised as there are limited spots available. Who knows — maybe a shooting star will grant all your lucky wishes.
Boston Theater District
Looking for a laugh? Or maybe a new song to get stuck in your head?
The Boston Theater District has more than a dozen theaters. Welcoming headliner performers, these large commercial theaters — the Wang Theater, the Shubert and the Boston Opera House — are renowned for their top performances.
The Charles Playhouse hosts the city’s two longest-running shows — Shear Madness and Blue Man Group.
Taza Chocolate Factory
Reward your sweet tooth with a chocolate factory tour at Taza. With no golden ticket necessary, this trip includes the entire story of their chocolate from start to finish. From growth and harvesting to the moment before the first bite, a guide will explain their special bean-to-bar stone grounding process. The mouthwatering cacao nibs and bite-size chocolates are offered at the end of each session.
Candle Making
Turn that warm and cozy feeling into a fond memory this year by designing your own candle scent with friends at Noted. Hosted by the owner, this workshop offers the chance to stylize your personal fragrance from scratch. After the scent is perfected, the candles will cure until picked up at a later date.
Bruins/Celtics Game
Cheer on the home team with some Boston spirit at a Bruins or a Celtics game this season. Join the city’s most passionate sports fans at a live game at TD Garden. Even if you don’t consider yourself a sports enthusiast, the crowd’s energy will pull you and your friends to your feet.
