I’ve tried to become more connected with my community by going to activities around Halloween or Christmas time, or just general activities with the people I associate with. I just wish–and I know this is going to sound weird–there were more real people like Lewis the Mayor who organize community events in real life where I can take my family and participate in holidays with the community.
I’m going to try and do more things like that with my family and our friends, I’ve always loved the community feel that Stardew emulates. I want that for my family.
I wish my soul could be healed with a supply of jalapeños poppers and black coffee. 🙁 So far no dice.
I worked with a library to start a little community pumpkin carving contest once, 10 years later I think it still lives on. Contact your local chamber of commerce, they might be able to point you to some resources/partnerships.