Spending the holidays in New York City is magical—but it can also feel a little overwhelming when you’re away from the familiar faces, family traditions, and favorite comfort foods you grew up with. If you’re staying back in NYC for school, an internship, or your first big job, being far from home in December can bring a mix of excitement and homesickness.
At Webster Apartments, we know many of our residents will experience their first “holiday season away from home” right here in our community. So consider this your cozy guide to making the most of it — by finding joy, connection, and maybe even a brand new tradition or two!
Create a “Home Away From Home” Routine
Your family’s holiday traditions might be hundreds or thousands of miles away, but that doesn’t mean you can’t bring the spirit to Brooklyn. Start small: light a candle that reminds you of home, make a cup of peppermint hot chocolate after class, play your favorite holiday playlist while you get ready, or hang a few decorations around your room.
If you’re living at Webster, this is the perfect time to personalize your space. Add a string of lights over your bed, put up a mini tree on your desk, or even bring in a cozy throw blanket. Your room should feel like a little retreat from the cold.
You can also bring a little piece of home with you. If your family decorates a certain way—like the same ornaments every year or a specific color/type of garland—consider recreating that in your Webster room. Some residents even coordinate with their families and hang matching decorations so everyone feels connected, no matter how many miles apart.
These tiny rituals add warmth and comfort, especially when end-of-semester and finals gets hectic.
Lean Into the Webster Community
One of the best parts about living at Webster Apartments is that you’re surrounded by amazing women who are going through similar experiences—studying for finals, juggling internships, and navigating city life during the busiest time of year.
Don’t hesitate to reach out, knock on a neighbor’s door, or ask someone to join you for a holiday market run.
You never know who else might be feeling homesick too. Below is a list of holiday markets sprawled throughout the city:
- Grand Central Christmas Market
- Union Square Holiday Market
- Herald Square Holiday Market
- Columbus Circle Christmas Market
Check the resident events calendar throughout December, because these gatherings are designed to bring everyone together—cookie decorating, movie nights, community dinners, and more. These little moments of connection can make a huge difference.
Explore NYC’s Most Festive Moments
If you’re away from home during the holidays, New York City is genuinely one of the best places to be. The entire city becomes a giant snow globe in December. Some must-sees:
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The Bryant Park Winter Village: Ice skating, shopping, and hot chocolate all in one place… what more could you ask for?!
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Dyker Heights Christmas Lights: If you love dramatic holiday décor, this Brooklyn neighborhood goes all out.
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Fifth Avenue Window Displays: Grab a warm drink and stroll past the iconic department stores, each with its own stunning theme.
- The Rockefeller Center Tree: Crowds? Yes. Worth it? 100,000%.
Exploring the city gives you a sense of adventure while creating memories that make this season unforgettable. These are unique experiences that a lot of people put on their bucket list, and it’s all right at your fingertips!
Call Home… But Build Your Own Memories Too
Staying connected to family is important, but give yourself permission to create your own holiday rhythm. Schedule regular FaceTime calls, share photos of the city, or set up a virtual cookie-baking night. At the same time, don’t be afraid to embrace the independence that comes with living in NYC. Maybe you’ll discover a new café your family insists you visit again next year, or start your own tradition with a new friend from Webster.
On December 10th, we’re hosting our annual Resident Holiday Party, complete with mini gingerbread house decorating, cozy treats, and plenty of festive fun. It’s the perfect chance to meet new friends, unwind after classes or internships, and create a few holiday traditions of your own—right here in your NYC home.
Take Gentle Care of Yourself
The end of the year can feel emotionally heavy when you’re far from home, so make space for whatever you’re feeling. Take a walk around Downtown Brooklyn, treat yourself to your favorite meal, journal your thoughts, light some candles with your favorite shower bomb, or have a cozy night in with your favorite holiday movie. Prioritizing your well-being, mental, emotional, and physical, helps you stay grounded during the busiest season of the year.
And if you ever feel overwhelmed, reach out to a friend or someone from home. You’re not alone, and it’s okay to take your time and lean on loved ones while settling into a new chapter.
Let This Season Surprise You
Being away from home for the holidays doesn’t have to feel like something you’re “surviving.” Many of our residents find it becomes one of the most meaningful parts of their NYC experience—learning to build community, discovering new traditions, and realizing just how capable and resilient they are.
This year, give yourself permission to enjoy it in your own way. New York might not be where your story started, but it’s a pretty amazing place to start for what’s to come!
And if you’re staying with us this season, don’t forget to join us for our Webster Holiday Party—featuring mini gingerbread house decorating and all the cozy, festive vibes you need to feel connected and at home.
If NYC is calling your name for the new year, we’d love to welcome you into the Webster community. Apply today and start creating your own moments of comfort, connection, and adventure in Downtown Brooklyn.
