16 Dec Food Allergy Holiday & New Year Family Gathering Tips
The holiday season and New Year celebrations are filled with joy, tradition, and—of course—food. From cookie exchanges and potlucks to family dinners and festive parties, meals often take center stage. For individuals and families managing food allergies, however, these celebrations can also bring added stress and safety concerns. With a little planning and open communication, it’s possible to enjoy the season while keeping everyone safe and included.
Planning Ahead Makes a Big Difference
Preparation is one of the most effective ways to reduce anxiety and risk during holiday events.
BEFORE THE EVENT
Talk with hosts ahead of time about specific food allergies and what needs to be avoided.
Offer to bring safe dishes that everyone can enjoy.
Ask how food will be served and if allergens will be clearly identified.
If attending a party or New Year’s event, eat a safe meal beforehand just in case options are limited.
FOR HOSTS
Ask guests about food allergies early.
Label dishes clearly and keep allergen-free foods separate.
Use clean utensils and preparation surfaces to avoid cross-contact.
When in doubt, keep ingredient lists available.
Ask guests about food allergies early.
Label dishes clearly and keep allergen-free foods separate.
Use clean utensils and preparation surfaces to avoid cross-contact.
When in doubt, keep ingredient lists available.
Teach Kids (and Adults) to Advocate for Safety
The holidays are a great opportunity to reinforce self-advocacy skills:
Encourage children and teens to ask questions before eating.
Remind them not to accept food unless it’s confirmed safe.
Make sure trusted adults know how to recognize symptoms of an allergic reaction and how to use emergency medication.
Adults with food allergies should also feel empowered to speak up—your safety matters, even during celebrations.
Encourage children and teens to ask questions before eating.
Remind them not to accept food unless it’s confirmed safe.
Make sure trusted adults know how to recognize symptoms of an allergic reaction and how to use emergency medication.
Adults with food allergies should also feel empowered to speak up—your safety matters, even during celebrations.
Always Be Prepared for Emergencies
No matter how well-planned an event is, accidents can happen.
Always carry prescribed emergency medications, including epinephrine auto-injectors.
Ensure medications are easily accessible—not left in the car or coat closet.
Let someone at the gathering know where your medication is and how to help in an emergency.
Review your allergy action plan before attending larger events.
Always carry prescribed emergency medications, including epinephrine auto-injectors.
Ensure medications are easily accessible—not left in the car or coat closet.
Let someone at the gathering know where your medication is and how to help in an emergency.
Review your allergy action plan before attending larger events.
Creating Inclusive and Joyful Celebrations
Food allergies shouldn’t prevent anyone from enjoying holiday traditions or ringing in the New Year with loved ones. Inclusive celebrations might include:
Allergy-friendly dessert tables
Non-food-centered activities like games, crafts, or countdown traditions
Sharing recipes that accommodate common allergens so everyone can participate
Allergy-friendly dessert tables
Non-food-centered activities like games, crafts, or countdown traditions
Sharing recipes that accommodate common allergens so everyone can participate
The holidays and New Year are about connection, gratitude, and celebration. With thoughtful planning, honest conversations, and preparedness, families managing food allergies can focus less on fear and more on making meaningful memories.
Have questions or concerns? Our board-certified allergists and well-trained staff are here to help. GET STARTED TODAY!
Wishing you a safe, healthy, and happy holiday season and a confident start to the New Year!
Have questions or concerns? Our board-certified allergists and well-trained staff are here to help. GET STARTED TODAY!
Wishing you a safe, healthy, and happy holiday season and a confident start to the New Year!