ICYMI: Celebrate Singles Day Anytime
If you missed Singles Day on 11/11 and you’re still single, there’s no need to worry—every day can be a celebration of being single! Singles Day is a relatively new holiday, lesser-known in many parts of the world but growing in popularity, especially as a day for both honoring singlehood and celebrating friendship. With the right mindset, you can make any day a singles day, dedicated to living your best life as a single person.
What Is Singles Day?
Singles Day, also known as “Double 11,” originated in China and was first celebrated as “Bachelors’ Day” by a small group of college bachelors in the early 1990s. The holiday started as a lighthearted response to traditional couple-centric festivals and quickly spread across Chinese universities, especially in Nanjing. The date 11/11 was chosen because the four “1”s symbolize single individuals, resembling the bare shape of a stick in Chinese slang, which refers to an unmarried man who doesn’t add branches to the family tree.
What began as a small celebration has since transformed into the largest shopping day in the world, with major Chinese retailers like Alibaba and JD.com offering deep discounts on 11/11. However, even as Singles Day has become a shopping phenomenon, its roots in celebrating singlehood remain an important part of the holiday. In fact, it’s become a day for people worldwide to recognize that being single is a unique and rewarding stage of life, worthy of celebration.
Planning the Perfect Singles Night Out
Whether it’s 11/11 or any other day of the year, here are some great ways to celebrate being single by planning an ideal night out:
1. Pick an Activity You’ll Enjoy
Start by choosing an activity that gets you out of your comfort zone or that lets you relax and have a good time. Musical Bingo, Karaoke, and live music nights are all excellent options for singles, providing a laid-back atmosphere with enough social interaction for everyone to feel included. These types of weekly entertainment events also tend to attract other singles, so you may find yourself surrounded by like-minded people but without the pressure that comes with more traditional singles events.
These events are often held on weekdays, which means you’ll likely encounter happy hour deals that allow you to enjoy yourself without spending too much. Most importantly, remember that Singles Day isn’t just about meeting someone new. It’s a chance to enjoy being single and connect with friends, strangers, and potential new friends along the way.
2. Find Unique Spots with a Great Vibe
Choose venues that make you feel at ease. Local bars and restaurants known for their friendly atmosphere and creative themes are some of the best spots for singles. Trivia nights, Musical Bingo, open mic nights, and even painting classes are often scheduled on weekday nights, allowing singles to enjoy a mix of lighthearted competition and creativity with others who are likely there to socialize and unwind.
Also, consider mixing up the location if you usually go to the same places. A fresh spot might just give you the sense of adventure that makes Singles Day feel even more like a celebration.
3. Don’t Be Afraid to Try Something New
Part of celebrating Singles Day is embracing the independence and freedom that comes with being single. Use this as an opportunity to try something you’ve never done before. Take a dancing class, join a cooking workshop, or visit a new gallery opening. Often, the best experiences are the ones you stumble upon unexpectedly, and the new skills or knowledge you gain can be a reminder of how fulfilling the single life can be.
4. Treat Yourself
Singles Day is also the perfect time for some well-deserved self-care. Before heading out, plan a few simple ways to pamper yourself. Treat yourself to something small but special, whether it’s a new outfit, a gourmet dessert, or even a spa day. If you’re out, consider ordering a specialty cocktail or a dish you wouldn’t usually splurge on. Taking the time to do something just for you is a great way to make any singles day memorable.
5. Remember: The Goal Is to Enjoy Being Single
Singles Day, at its heart, is about celebrating singlehood as a fulfilling part of life, not just a transitional phase. Going out for Singles Day or having a singles night out is a way to honor the joys of independence and self-discovery, whether or not you end the night with a new love interest. Keep in mind that the best relationships you can build during this time are those with yourself, with friends, and with family.
Conclusion
Every Singles Day is an opportunity to celebrate life on your terms without the expectations or pressures that often accompany couple-centric holidays. So even if it’s not officially Singles Day on 11/11, you can make today a celebration of you—single and thriving.
For a comprehensive list of fun weekly events near you, check out Good Thomas Entertainment and make any day Singles Day!