Nothing will put the pandemic fatigued to the test like this upcoming holiday season. Associated with close, in-person family gatherings, the holidays evoke nostalgia, warm feelings and a sense of connection for most people. But this year and into 2021, following CDC safety guidelines, many will decide to gather remotely, such as via Zoom, FaceTime or other digital means.
Set up The Camera and Start Cooking
Thanks to technology, we now have many different ways to share experiences together from different parts of the country. Consider holding a virtual family cook-along this year! Ask family members to pick a recipe — an heirloom recipe is particularly fun — and enjoy preparing it together via a Zoom call. With in-laws and extended family, there’s an even better chance for different culinary cultures to explore.
Watch the Game Remotely Together
The sports world has been topsy-turvy to say the least during COVID-19. At one point, the NBA and NHL finals were on at the same time as the MLB playoffs, along with college football and the regular NFL and MLS seasons. Most games have been played in empty stadiums or with limited fans allowed entry.
The collegial experience of rooting for your team in person may be dampened, but you could try to pick a game ahead of time and send out invites to friends or relatives to watch it together remotely. Adding some beverage and tailgate recipes can make it an event. And if you’re so inclined, set up a friendly wager to up the ante a bit.
App-Based Holiday Party Games
If your family tends to break out the games every year and you’re disappointed about missing out this year, this is a great solution for you! Zoom games or app-based games that offer multiplayer abilities and are a great way to bond with family this year. We suggest creating a themed cocktail that pairs well with the game you’re playing, including a nonalcoholic version so everyone feels included!
If you are in fact planning to host a holiday gathering, the CDC (Centers for Disease Control) has published guidelines for family and community gatherings. By now, many of the recommendations are familiar: maintain social distancing, wear masks, wash your hands frequently and avoid touching your face.
Ideally, gatherings should be held outdoors since COVID-19 transmission risk is significantly higher for indoor spaces. As is the case for daily activities, older people and those with underlying health concerns may want to avoid interacting with people outside of their immediate family. Understanding that during the colder months, staying indoors is unavoidable, ensure that your indoor gatherings take place in a well-ventilated space.
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