10 Festival Season Survival Tips for Introverts (Plus 3 Bonus Strategies)

4. Use hosting as a boundary tool

Hosting on your own terms gives you control over time, people, and environment. If you prefer smaller gatherings, offer to host an intimate tea after the puja or a short evening for close family instead of attending a large, noisy function. Set clear start and end times on invites—phrases like "do join us from 5–7 pm" send a respectful signal and keep expectations aligned. Choose a comfortable layout: chairs with personal space, soft lighting, a playlist without too much bass. Providing a dedicated quiet corner with floor cushions or a balcony space helps guests who may need a breather. When you're not hosting, volunteer to help with a childcare corner, or run an activity that limits social overload—serve sweets at the door or take responsibility for a short cultural reading. Hosting doesn't mean you must entertain nonstop; structure the gathering so it has natural pauses and defined activities that make social moments manageable. This approach lets you participate while shaping the environment to match your comfort level, making celebrations more sustainable.