How about volunteering at a local lunch for other people who are alone at Christmas, or the homeless. I've often wanted to do that but I'm expected at family's day which I love.
My granddaughter did a couple of hours singing Carols last year before joining the family for the rest if the day. She loved it.
Holidays - familiar or new places?
... think fondly on your children having the time together in a different family dynamic and wait to hear all about it.