Why meaningful holidays are about giving back, and why charity makes festivities unforgettable

Volunteering as a family at shelters, community kitchens, or educational initiatives turns giving into a shared memory rather than a one-time act (Image: Pexels)

• Giving back during holidays adds emotional richness and multiplies joy
• Volunteering, supporting local causes, and charity dinners make a difference.
• Festive generosity fosters empathy, inclusion, and lasting community impact

Did our AI summary help?

The holiday season is characterised by the spirit of joy, optimism, and goodwill. While many of us do not mind spending on parties, expensive holidays, and celebratory indulgences, there could be a nicer way to translate these sentiments into meaningful action.  Meaningful holidays are not defined by how extravagant they look on social media, but by how they make us feel once the decorations are packed away. Giving back adds an emotional richness to the season, reminding us that joy multiplies when shared.

Giving attracts abundance

Starting the year with a generous spirit sets a powerful tone. It reminds us that progress and happiness are most sustainable when they are shared. Rohit Choudhary, Spokesperson at Share Our Strength, says, “A meaningful holiday, to me, is one where celebration goes beyond personal joy and becomes an opportunity to think about others. Whether it is supporting a cause, contributing time, or simply being more mindful of those around us, generosity creates a sense of connection and responsibility that stays with us long after the festivities end. There are many meaningful ways to give back, and they do not always have to be grand gestures. Supporting nutrition and education initiatives, contributing to community kitchens, volunteering time, or choosing to support purpose-led organisations are all impactful ways to make a difference. Even small actions, such as sponsoring a meal, engaging local communities, or encouraging children to participate in acts of giving can have lasting effects.”

Also read | How to travel more and spend less this festive season

What makes charitable efforts so memorable is their ability to transform celebration into compassion. When joy is shared with those who are often overlooked, it amplifies the true essence of the season. It shifts the focus from what we receive to what we can contribute.

Meaningful ways to give back to the society

One meaningful way to give back during the holidays is to make generosity part of everyday rituals. Hosting smaller, purpose-driven gatherings where guests contribute to a cause instead of exchanging gifts creates shared intention. Supporting local artisans, women-led collectives, and small businesses ensures festive spending circulates within communities that need it most. Volunteering as a family at shelters, community kitchens, or educational initiatives turns giving into a shared memory rather than a one-time act.

Also read | What do you know about volunteer vacations?

At its core, the act of giving reminds us that festivals are not just about celebration, but about empathy, inclusion, and hope for a better future. Adding to this sentiment, Chef Sanjeev Kapoor says, “For me, the most meaningful moments are those guided by generosity, positivity, and a shared sense of purpose. Recently, we brought together members of the hospitality community to celebrate craftsmanship, camaraderie, and the spirit of giving. It was filled with warmth, laughter, and genuine connection, driven by a collective intention to contribute to a larger cause. The charity dinner, thoughtfully curated by chefs Manish Mehrotra, Varun Totlani, Tejasvi Chandela, Shubham Thakur, and Chintan Pandya, was truly memorable and stood as a testament to this shared goodwill.”

Festive charity can also be experiential. Organising community meals, donating winter essentials, or sponsoring skill-based workshops adds dignity to giving. Even simple actions like writing letters to the elderly, mentoring students, or committing to monthly donations can help sustain impact beyond the holiday window.