December is finally here along with the forthcoming holidays. Whether that time is spent with family and friends, shopping for last minute gifts, finishing up a big work project, or around town at various holiday events, the month is going to be over before we all know it!
It is important around the holidays to remember to take the time to actually enjoy the holidays. That seems simple enough, but for many of us, we are the ones who are putting every event together, making the meals, wrapping the gifts, and moving that Elf on a Shelf. Here are some local Omaha activities you can attend with family or friends during the holidays to give yourself a break:
- December 10th – December 16th: Fontenelle Forest Winter Wonderland
- Nov 25th – December 16th: Santa Clause at Regency Court
- December 13th: Kwanzaa Celebration at UNO
- December 18th: Holiday Harmony at Lauritzen Gardens
- Nov. 23rd – Dec. 23rd: Santa’s Magic at Omaha Children’s Museum
- Dec. 17th and 18th: Holiday Market at Oak View Mall
- December 17th: Breakfast with Santa at The Relevant Center
- December 18th: Chanukah Candle Lighting
Check out the link listed in sources for 40+ holiday activities around Omaha for families to enjoy together. If you are not local to Omaha, there are many ways to enjoy the holidays such as a neighborhood lights drive, holiday markets, a cookie exchange with friends or coworkers, or a tree lighting ceremony.
This time of year is not about what we are able to get out of it, but rather what we can give back to those we love. The time together doing a holiday activity is sure to leave a memory that outlasts any tangible gift. But for those who don’t have a close-knit family or group of friends to turn to, the holidays can bring up feelings of sadness and sorrow. NBC News reported that the holidays can often lead to loneliness and leave some feeling hopeless during this time. Volunteering during the holidays can lead to increased feelings of self-worth, appreciation for what you have, a feeling of a strong community and being apart of something bigger, and often physical activity. All of these things can change the mindset of someone who may feel down or depressed during the holidays. Here is a list of places to look into for volunteer work:
- Community churches
- Local food banks
- Homeless shelters serving meals during the holidays
- Clothing or diaper drives
December can be a busy month, but it is an unforgettable one full of joy, fun events, celebrations, and an opportunity to give back. Check in on yourself and your loved ones this holiday season, and always remember that our counselors are available to speak with you 24/7 if you are feeling stressed, anxious, depressed, or anything else. Happy Holidays from all of us at Arbor Family Counseling!
Sources
Chanukah Candle Lighting, Beth El Synagogue Omaha, December 18 2022 | AllEvents.in
40+ Family-Friendly Holiday Events in Omaha 2021! | Family Fun in Omaha
Volunteer When Depressed? The Life You Save May Be Your Own | Psychology Today