With Thanksgiving disappearing from our rearview mirror, many of us are now looking towards the Christmas Season to brighten up what has been an otherwise bleak year. Many people across the globe remain closed off from their loved ones due to the ongoing pandemic that has plagued us most of the year. As such, we find ourselves longing for togetherness much more than we already this time of year.

One would think that holiday cheer would be at an all-time low, but thankfully it doesn’t seem to be.

Of course you may find a Grinch or two roaming about your neighborhood, but for the most part, people are ready and excited for the holidays. Traditions such as Christmas Cards, that were quickly becoming a thing of the past have found new life as a way to reconnect with our families.

But, what else can be done to help us connect with our families as we continue to isolate for the common good? The following is a list that may help you find some Christmas Joy and spread it to others this Holiday Season!

Holiday Letters-
Briefly mentioned earlier, Christmas cards have resecured their position as a holiday staple. However, another similar tradition of the past may very well be making a comeback. The Family Christmas Letter was first popularized in the 1940’s and into the 1960’s as a way for families to connect in a post-war world. During WWII and the following decades following many people found themselves living away from home with no other way to tell their families what they had been up to. With that, so was born the Christmas Letter. Smithonian Magazine has a neat article about it here. Many plan to reach back to this era and send their very own for the first time.

Christmas Care Package-
Do you have a family living close by that you long to see and celebrate with? Here’s an idea, create a Christmas Care Package for them and drop it off the porch. Leave a message asking them to make a video of the unboxing and to post it to social media when they’re done. Want to make it more interesting? Consider a “Secret Santa” or “White Elephant” exchange with several friends and loved ones.

Caroling-
One of the most steadfast holiday traditions is Christmas Caroling! Which could be the perfect social distanced Christmas activity. Bring you loved ones from the same household for a closer harmony experience. Remember, if you choose to invite friends from other households to be sure to spread out to at least 6 feet apart and wear your masks. Some jurisdictions warn against singing at high volumes this holiday season, be sure to check your local guidance before heading out to share your voice.

Virtual Holiday Sing Along-
Similar to our last suggestion, a wonderful way to spread some holiday cheer is to sing! If you and yours are musically inclined, record yourselves singing a few holiday songs. Coordinate with other family members living apart for a virtual duet to share on social media. Consider an online watch party with a mix of live and recorded performance!! I’d be lying if I didn’t admit this idea came from Disney’s new “Family Sing-a-longs” as seen on ABC and Disney+. Honestly, I wish I had this idea sooner as I expected this may become an amazing holiday tradition!

What are some ways you’re planning to use to connect with your loved ones this Holiday Season?