The holidays are definitely going to feel a little different this year, but it’s still possible to celebrate the season safely at home with loved ones near and far. And while it may not feel like the holidays unless you are surrounded by friends and family, shopping trips, holiday parades, and dining out, the key to a meaningful holiday season is all about changing your mindset and finding creative ways to enjoy the time while minimizing the spread of COVID-19. Read on for five ways you can celebrate the holidays at home safely while still having fun.
Decorate, Then Decorate Some More
Social distancing has nothing on Clark Griswold, so why not go all out with your decorations indoors and out. In fact, there’s never been a better year to step up your outdoor holiday decor game and brighten up the neighborhood. With people looking for holiday-inspired socially distance fun, spread the joy safely by making your home a place to drive by and look at holiday lights. And don’t forget to take your family out to look at Christmas lights too. (Don’t forget the snacks and hot chocolate!). And don’t neglect the inside of your home too. You’re going to spend a lot of time at home this year, so why not make it the winter wonderland of your dreams.
Have a Zoom Call with Santa
While a visit with Santa may be out of the question this year, meeting Santa is still a possibility in 2020. You can book a video call with Saint Nick himself through Santa’s Club. The virtual visit includes up to three children and you get to keep a recording of the video call. Book your appointment and then you pour the cocoa while they provide all the magic and memories.
Get Crafty
From holiday ornaments to DIY holiday projects, more time at home = more time to explore your creative side. Throw on your holiday playlist and Christmas pajamas, set aside a place in your home to spread out and have fun with the whole family. Maybe this is the year to start new craft traditions too…whether that’s making dough ornaments or your own Christmas cards, the options are endless.
Surprise a Loved One
It’s easy to connect with loved ones you’d normally see over the holidays in 2020. Some ways you can show them they are in your thoughts include:
- Start an online Secret Santa group and mail your “person” a gift. (This is also a great time to shop small with shops from Etsy for example.)
- Send a unique or personalized gift to loved ones that arrives before Christmas…this is a great way to connect throughout the holiday season and keep their spirits up.
- Send them a fun game or puzzle, buy the same one for yourself, and set up a “virtual game night.”
- Leave homemade goodies or a holiday meal on the front porch of a friend, neighbor, or family member.
Bake Sweet Treats
You know how it normally feels like there isn’t enough time to bake as much as you’d like during the holidays? This is the year to take advantage of that time at home, bake your family favorites, and maybe even try a few new ones too. Baking Christmas cookies is a great daytime activity to share with the kids…plus your home will smell amazing! Try some of these top Christmas cookie recipes and don’t forget to make some extras and surprise your neighbors with baked treats left on their front porch.
