During this holiday season it might be hard to really celebrate with friends. But, have no fear, because it is possible. Even though it’s not the same as having a cute holiday party with friends, virtual options are probably best right now due to the rise in COVID cases, and here are some great ways to do this.
Many friends groups are utilizing Secret Santa as a way to celebrate the gift-giving season. How this can work without ever seeing someone face to face is to use drawnames.com. This website is a great free tool. One person will create a group and then invite everyone in that group through texting or email. Then, people can make their own wish lists on the app if they want. After everyone is in the group, you can draw a name and have fun getting gifts. The best way to get the gift to the other person is to either drop it off at their house or ship it.
Experts are saying to avoid sending holiday cards this year because of the risk of transmitting COVID. If you are going to touch something that you are gifting, try to sanitize to the best of your ability. Even though there is a low risk of spreading the virus through inanimate objects, it’s better to be safe than sorry.
After everyone has received their gift, it might be fun to utilize Facetime, Zoom, or Houseparty to have a sort of holiday party. You can also use Netflix Party to all watch a fun movie or TV show together. Everyone can have cookies or fun treats at their own house and open their Secret Santa gifts together. Although it’s not ideal, opening your presents with your friends together helps us keep connections and celebrate together.
Other students are thinking of different ways other than gift-giving to celebrate this year.
“Hopefully my friends and I can watch a virtual Christmas movie or two,” said junior Grace Amine.
Maybe even try to do a virtual bake off with your friends and decorate cookies through Facetime or Zoom. If you aren’t up to baking, decorating gingerbread houses is also a fun holiday activity.
This year may be difficult to get the full holiday experience, but hopefully, we can all find ways to stay connected and celebrate this holiday season.