Britain is Embracing a Quiet Christmas
Britain is experiencing a Quiet Christmas, according to new research commissioned by ODEON, revealing a shift in how people are approaching the festive season. Millions spend parts of Christmas and New Year alone, in some cases by choice, in others through circumstance, prompting ODEON to launch a new festive campaign, Quiet Christmas, fronted by broadcaster Clara Amfo, in support of Mind.
The campaign, explores why being alone at Christmas doesn’t always mean feeling lonely, when it can be challenging, and how shared experiences like cinema can offer connection without pressure.
The research suggests that around 9.4 million adults across the UK will spend parts of the festive period alone this year. Nearly one in five people (18%) say they have no plans at all for December, while 11% expected to be completely alone on Christmas Eve and 12% on Christmas Day. A further 13% say they won’t see anyone on New Year’s Eve or New Year’s Day.
For many, this reflects a conscious shift away from pressure-filled festive expectations. 62% of those spending time by themselves say they would not describe themselves as lonely, choosing calmer ways to spend the season. However, the research also shows that Christmas can heighten emotional strain, with 54% of adults saying they feel overwhelmed or overstimulated during the festive period.
In response, ODEON launched Quiet Christmas. The campaign reflects the reality that Christmas looks different for everyone and acknowledges that sometimes people simply need a place to go.
Clara Amfo said: “I’ve being going to the cinema on my own for years and I truly enjoy it. There is no need to speak and be ‘on’. You get your ticket, show up and let the film take over, sharing something special with a room full of strangers. During this festive period, when everything can feel louder and more demanding, that kind of quiet shared experience can be a much-needed antidote that we all deserve.”
Throughout the holidays, ODEON keeps its doors open as a warm, welcoming place to go, particularly for those seeking calm or comfort. Guests are greeted by teams who love what they do, ready with a smile or a chat about films, while cosy auditoriums provide a calm escape from the holiday rush. A line-up of feel-good treats is available all season long, offering something comforting without the pressures often associated with traditional festive meals.
The research highlights two overlapping experiences; alone by choice and alone by circumstance. For some, spending time alone during the festive period is a positive choice. 28% say they are actively looking to relax and recharge, while 27% say they simply enjoy their own company. Many are setting boundaries to protect their wellbeing, including limiting social engagements (27%), moderating alcohol intake (26%), and avoiding last-minute plans (24%).
For others, being alone is shaped by circumstance as 19% say friends or family have other plans, 13% find family or social gatherings stressful, 12% live too far away from loved ones, and 10% experience seasonal social anxiety. While not always described as loneliness, these experiences can still bring moments of disconnection.
The research also explored how people seek connection during quieter festive moments. More than one in ten people already choose to go to the cinema alone, describing it as a way to be around others without the pressure to interact. ODEON offers a shared experience where arriving alone already feels normal. With lights low, phones away and attention focused on the screen, cinema allows people to immerse themselves in a story alongside others, without the need to speak or explain how they feel. Additional research from University College London and evidence reviewed by the World Health Organization shows that shared cultural experiences such as film can support wellbeing and foster a sense of connection, even when experienced solo.
On the role ODEON plays during the festive period, Suzie Welch, Managing Director of ODEON UK, said: “Our research shows that many people spending Christmas alone wouldn’t describe themselves as lonely, but that doesn’t mean they don’t feel disconnected at times. ODEON can offer something simple to combat loneliness, something meaningful. A place to go if you’re having a ‘Quiet Christmas’ where being on your own still feels like being part of something, with no pressure and no big plans, just great films and a warm welcome.”
While time alone can be positive for many, Quiet Christmas also recognises that loneliness can emerge quietly, and Christmas can intensify difficult feelings. That is why the campaign is delivered to support Mind, with clear signposting to support for anyone who may need it via Mind.org.uk.
Stephen Buckley, Head of Information at Mind, said: “It’s positive to see people feeling able to choose how they spend the festive period. Social connections can boost our wellbeing but making time for ourselves away from societal pressures can feel good too. That might mean getting outside, seeing a film or going to the cinema – where you can be around others without the pressure to interact – or finding something creative that brings joy. For anyone feeling overwhelmed or struggling with their mental health, you’re not alone and support is available.”
The Quiet Christmas campaign builds on nearly ten years of partnership between ODEON and Mind, during which ODEON has supported mental wellbeing through fundraising, colleague-led initiatives and in-cinema activity.
Mind’s helplines:
- Wednesday 24 December – closing at 2pm
- Thursday 25 December (Christmas Day)
- Friday 26 December (Boxing Day)
- Thursday 1 January (New Year’s Day)
Mind’s infolines are open as usual 9-6 on all other weekdays.