Here are five ways in which you can plan for Christmas in a way that still promises some fun and quality time and without worrying over pandemic.
1.) Meet up with those in your social bubble
In the new normal of social distancing, it may even be kinder to elderly parents and relatives to stay away and reach out with a nice gesture instead.
Being together in spirit instead of being physically present, in the hope of many more Christmases to be spent together, will be the essence of Christmas everywhere for this year. Accepting this notion right away and keeping your family members prepared is the safest and most practical way to plan ahead for the year-end in 2020. Plan B though it may be, plan a special lunch with those you already interact with and keep the spirit of the holidays alive for all.
2.) Travel short distances — safe locations
Your best bet? Camping! Head for a National Park you’ve never visited or simply plan a road trip across states you’ve always meant to visit. Let physically distanced travel be the main consideration. You’ll be thankful to be away from the crowds jostling in airports and the extended procedures in view of the pandemic.
Plan a cancellation-proof holiday by going DIY. If possible, avoid staying in hotels or motels too and live up to the camping dreams you’ve always carried in your heart. This could be the best opportunity to create some new experiences and memories.
3.) Year-end fun and experiences
It may not be what you imagined, but you can count on event organizers and big brands to have something for you and your family to look forward to. Of course, the overarching concern everywhere will be social distancing.
Look for small events in your locality instead of heading to more crowded public spaces. Or better still, plan your own fun nights in your backyard if you’re staying in. Bring in the biggest tree you’ve ever had. Make decorations at home as a family. Have your own tree-lighting ceremony. It will be a DIY Christmas like none other! And the kids will remember it for a lifetime.
4.) Gifts, gifts, gifts!
Now, this is one aspect of Christmas that no one can take away from you! The joy of gifting and receiving gifts can — and should — go on as planned. In fact, why not be a tad more generous this year, considering everything the family has been through and everything you’ve all had to give up?
The only thing to remember here is to plan early and maybe even start stocking up and buying early. Again, the shape of things to come in December is as yet unclear and there’s also likely to be a huge rush that could affect deliveries at the year-end.
This may not be the year to wait for the best sales as stocks aren’t as certain as they used to be. If there’s any particular gift item you’ve had your eye on, it’s better to get in touch with the retailer (or e-tailer) early enough and make sure you or your loved ones aren’t deprived of this bit of Christmas joy.
5.) Create a new family tradition
Do something in your neighborhood that you’ve never done before. Maybe volunteer for social service. Organize a clothes drive for the homeless. Join a caroling group. Maybe attend Mass. Do something deeply meaningful that you’ve never done before and it could just be the start of a beautiful new holiday tradition.
The wise thing to do right now seems to be to plan a Christmas that can’t be shaken or stirred by the temperaments of the virus. Quiet, socially distanced, and intimate. More of Netflix than Broadway. More of nights in than nights out.
Thank you,
Glenda, Charlie and David Cates
