By Las Vegas PRIDE Magazine Staff
Photography courtesy of Resorts World Las Vegas & Megan Blair

As the holiday season approaches, many look forward to family gatherings, traditions, and festivities that bring warmth during the colder months. However, for LGBTQIA+ individuals, the holidays can also stir mixed emotions, from the anticipation of seeing loved ones to the stress of navigating family dynamics or facing feelings of loneliness. Whether you plan to spend the holidays with your biological or chosen family, there are ways to celebrate that affirm and uplift who you are. Here are some tips and ideas for finding joy and connection during the season.

Setting Boundaries and Managing Expectations with Biological Family

For LGBTQIA+ individuals, returning to family environments can bring both love and challenges. Sometimes, family members may be unfamiliar with, or unsupportive of, your identity. This can mean bracing for insensitive questions, unsolicited opinions, or outright hostility. Setting boundaries can help you protect your peace.

• Communicate in Advance: If you’re comfortable, reach out before the gathering. Share your preferred pronouns or discuss topics you’d prefer to avoid. Sometimes, a gentle reminder before everyone gathers can make a big difference.
• Decide What You’re Willing to Share: Remember, you’re not obligated to share parts of yourself that make you uncomfortable. Choose what you’re comfortable discussing, and don’t feel pressured to educate others unless you want to.
• Identify an Exit Plan: If the environment becomes overwhelming, stepping away is okay. Take a walk, excuse yourself to a quiet space, or consider staying somewhere separate if it’s an extended visit.
• Connect with Allies: Find support among the people who respect you. Sometimes, having even one understanding person at a family gathering can ease the tension, and they can help redirect conversations or offer backup when needed.

Celebrating with Chosen Family

For many LGBTQIA+ people, chosen family (friends and loved ones who fully accept and support them) is a core part of their lives. For those spending the season with friends rather than biological family, chosen family gatherings can be warm, affirming, and tailored to individual needs.

• Host a ‘Friendsgiving’ or Holiday Gathering: Create your own traditions with a meal or celebration that reflects what the season means to you. Potlucks can keep it budget-friendly, and everyone can contribute something meaningful to them.
• Plan Activities that Reflect Your Values: If holiday activities or traditional celebrations feel alienating, take control by planning your own. This might mean decorating in a nontraditional way, hosting a game night, or spending time volunteering as a group.
• Lean into Affirming Rituals: Many LGBTQIA+ people find rituals to be grounding, whether it’s sharing what you’re grateful for, reflecting on the year, or writing affirmations to bring into the new one. These small moments can bring a sense of peace and community.

Combating Loneliness and Finding Community

The holidays can feel isolating, especially if you’re unable to connect with family or friends in person. Loneliness during the holidays is common, but there are ways to find a sense of belonging, even if you’re physically alone.

• Join Virtual Communities: Many LGBTQIA+ organizations host online holiday events, from virtual dinners to movie nights. Joining these can help you feel part of a larger community.
• Create Your Own Festivities: Plan something small for yourself if you’re celebrating alone. Decorate, cook a favorite meal, or watch holiday movies. Treat yourself with the same kindness you’d show others.
• Volunteer: Giving back is a great way to connect with others. Many LGBTQIA+ organizations seek volunteers for holiday events or outreach efforts, and it can be rewarding to be part of a cause while meeting like-minded individuals.

Self-Care Practices for a Calmer Holiday Season

During a season known for its demands, taking time to care for yourself is essential. Self-care can help manage holiday stress and preserve emotional energy.

• Set Aside Time for Reflection: Make space to check in with your own feelings and needs. Reflect on the year that’s passed and your hopes for the coming one, perhaps through journaling, art, or meditation.
• Prioritize Rest: The hustle and bustle can be exhausting. Remember to take breaks, set limits on social obligations, and give yourself permission to relax.
• Find Joy in Small Moments: Not every holiday season has to be elaborate. Sometimes, the small pleasures—a warm drink, your favorite song, a good book—bring the most comfort.

Celebrating Progress and Looking Forward

The holidays can also be a time to celebrate personal growth. Reflecting on your journey and the resilience you’ve shown can be empowering. Take pride in how far you’ve come, and honor the unique ways you contribute to your community, family, and chosen family. This season, focus on what brings you joy, and remember that there is no one right way to celebrate.

Whether surrounded by family, spending time with chosen family, or celebrating in solitude, know that your presence and story matter.

This article was originally published in the 2024 Winter Issue of Las Vegas PRIDE Magazine, and can be read in its original format here.