Thanksgiving is traditionally a time for gathering with family and friends, sharing warmth, laughter, and delicious food. However, for many, the reality of modern life, distance, or unforeseen circumstances can mean spending this special holiday alone. If you have loved ones who will be experiencing a solitary Thanksgiving, sending a thoughtful gift is a wonderful way to bridge the gap and let them know you’re thinking of them. It’s a tangible expression of love and care that can brighten their day and make them feel more connected, even when physical presence isn’t possible. This year, more than ever, showing we care from afar is a meaningful gesture.
Thoughtful Thanksgiving gifts to send to loved ones spending the holiday alone, featuring a cozy fall scene with pumpkins and warm lighting.
Just like the author of the original article felt upon learning her daughter wouldn’t be home for Thanksgiving, many of us are experiencing similar heartstrings this holiday season. Knowing someone you care about is alone, especially during a holiday meant for togetherness, can be tough. While nothing truly replaces being there in person, sending a carefully chosen Thanksgiving holiday gift can make a significant difference. It’s about sending a piece of your holiday spirit to them, reminding them they are cherished and not forgotten.
This guide is full of ideas for Thanksgiving Holiday Gifts designed to bring comfort, joy, and a sense of connection to those celebrating alone. From delightful treats to pampering experiences and engaging activities, we’ve curated a range of options to help you choose the perfect way to send your love this Thanksgiving.
Send a Touch of Nature with Plants and Flowers
A beautifully arranged succulent gift box from Etsy, perfect for sending as a long-lasting Thanksgiving gift.
One of the simplest yet most impactful Thanksgiving holiday gifts is a beautiful bouquet of flowers or a vibrant plant. Flowers instantly brighten up any space and bring a touch of nature indoors, reminding the recipient of beauty and growth even in solitude. Consider supporting local florists in their area for a personal touch and to boost their community businesses. Services like The Bouqs, Urban Stems, and Matilda’s Boombox also offer convenient online ordering with nationwide delivery, ensuring freshness and quality.
For a gift that lasts beyond the holiday, opt for a resilient succulent or a lush indoor plant. A charming “quarantine succulent gift box” from Etsy, similar to the GiftBoxLoveCo example, can bring a smile and serve as a lasting reminder of your thoughtfulness. Plants not only enhance their Thanksgiving table setting but also become a long-term companion, offering a daily reminder of your care and affection.
Pampering Gifts for Self-Care and Relaxation
A luxurious beauty set from Aloisia Marie Beauty, showcasing self-care Thanksgiving gift ideas for relaxation and pampering.
Thanksgiving, even when spent alone, can be an opportunity for self-care and rejuvenation. Encourage your loved one to indulge in some well-deserved pampering with a thoughtfully curated gift set. Think luxurious bath products, soothing aromatherapy items, or high-quality skincare sets. Small businesses like Aloisia Beauty offer wonderful beauty gift boxes perfect for this purpose.
Explore self-care gift guides for inspiration – many ideas suitable for moms are equally appreciated by grandmothers, daughters, friends, and even men. Consider a cozy robe, scented candles, gourmet teas, or a subscription box focused on relaxation and wellness. These Thanksgiving holiday gifts encourage them to embrace the tranquility of solitude and treat themselves to moments of peace and luxury.
Gifts to Keep Them Entertained and Engaged
A Winter Woods Paint by Number kit from Etsy, suggesting creative Thanksgiving holiday gifts for solo activities.
Combating loneliness on Thanksgiving can be eased with engaging activities. Gifts that provide entertainment and distraction are incredibly thoughtful. Consider their hobbies and interests when selecting a gift to keep them busy and happy throughout the holiday.
For the creatively inclined, a paint-by-numbers kit like the Winter Woods set from CatePaperCo on Etsy can provide hours of relaxing and rewarding activity. Custom photo paint-by-number kits add a personal touch, perhaps featuring a cherished family photo or a beloved pet. Other ideas include craft kits, knitting supplies, adult coloring books, or a new book by their favorite author.
Collage of Thanksgiving gift ideas for loved ones spending the holiday alone, featuring puzzles, books, and craft supplies.
If they are musically inclined, consider sending a new instrument like a ukulele or sheet music for their instrument of choice, setting the stage for a virtual holiday concert. For gamers, a new video game, a puzzle game, or a board game can provide enjoyable solo entertainment or even virtual game night opportunities with friends. Jigsaw puzzles, especially those with Thanksgiving or fall themes, are a classic and comforting pastime. For those who love to bake, gourmet baking kits or specialty ingredients can inspire a day of delicious creations.
Delicious Food and Drink to Savor the Holiday
Thanksgiving food items from Whole Foods Market, illustrating the option to send a pre-made Thanksgiving meal as a gift.
Food is central to Thanksgiving, and ensuring your loved one enjoys a festive meal is a wonderful way to show you care. If they aren’t keen on cooking a full Thanksgiving dinner for one, consider sending a gift card to their favorite local restaurant, allowing them to order a special meal without budget constraints. This also supports local businesses, a thoughtful bonus. Explore online lists of gifts that support local restaurants for more inspiration.
For those who appreciate a traditional Thanksgiving feast, many grocery stores like Whole Foods Market offer pre-made Thanksgiving meals for pickup or delivery. Meal kit delivery services like Sun Basket and Blue Apron also provide Thanksgiving meal kits, offering a convenient way to enjoy a delicious holiday meal with minimal effort. For a truly special treat, consider sending a gourmet pre-cooked meal from companies like Stockyards or Goldbelly, featuring options from renowned restaurants like Blue Smoke. Remember to order quickly as Thanksgiving delivery slots fill up fast!
MOUTH online liquor store subscription box, suggesting alcoholic beverages as a Thanksgiving gift option for adults.
Don’t forget the drinks! For adult recipients, a delivery of wine, champagne, craft beer, or their favorite spirits can add a celebratory touch to their Thanksgiving. Services like Drizly deliver from local liquor stores, and online retailers like Mouth offer curated selections from small-batch brands. Alternatively, a gourmet hot chocolate mix can provide cozy warmth and comfort on a chilly Thanksgiving day.
Sweet Treats and Decadent Desserts
A delicious Key Lime Pie from Little Pie Company, showcasing dessert delivery as a Thanksgiving gift idea.
For many, Thanksgiving isn’t complete without dessert. Sending a box of delicious treats is a guaranteed way to brighten someone’s holiday. Explore local bakeries that offer delivery services in your loved one’s area for fresh, homemade pies, cakes, or cookies. If local options are limited, nationwide delivery services like Goldbelly offer a wide array of gourmet desserts, such as the popular Key Lime Pie from Little Pie Company.
Consider non-traditional but equally delightful options like cake truffles from Milk Bar, which are perfectly portioned for solo indulgence. Ice cream from eCreamery, with customizable holiday collections, is another fantastic choice for a sweet Thanksgiving surprise. Remember to order desserts in advance to ensure timely delivery for Thanksgiving Day.
The Gift of Virtual Togetherness
Beyond physical gifts, the most valuable Thanksgiving holiday gift you can give is your time and presence, even virtually. Plan to connect with your loved one via FaceTime, Zoom, or other video calling platforms throughout Thanksgiving Day. Schedule specific times for calls to create a sense of shared holiday moments. While it might be more for your comfort as the giver, that connection is mutually meaningful.
Test your video call setup a day or two beforehand to ensure smooth communication on Thanksgiving Day. Explore online games you can play together virtually for added fun and engagement during your calls. Virtual connection bridges the distance and reminds your loved one that they are part of your celebration, even when physically apart.
Thanksgiving in solitude doesn’t have to mean a Thanksgiving without joy or connection. By sending thoughtful Thanksgiving holiday gifts and prioritizing virtual togetherness, you can make your loved ones feel cherished, remembered, and a little less alone during this special time. Embrace the spirit of giving and connection, and make this Thanksgiving meaningful for everyone, near or far. Let’s all do our part to spread kindness and warmth this holiday season.
