How to Celebrate While Practicing Social Distancing

With all the social-distancing directives amid the coronavirus pandemic, it’s kind of a bummer that you can’t go forward with the party you’ve been planning for several months now. Don’t fret! Thanks to the wonders of technology, you can still have a memorable celebration at home while still adhering to social distancing rules. Here are some ideas that will help you plan your virtual party.

Throw a virtual baby shower / bridal shower / birthday party.

It is easy to host parties or any kind of celebration if you have a webcam and internet at home. What you need to do first is send an electronic invitation before the event. Create your party set-up in your living room, kitchen, or yard and prepare a list of activities. A great game to play is a scavenger hunt - simply write out a list of ideas for your friends and family to find around their house. Trivia games, 20 questions, or even Jack Box games are great to play virtually. Everyone can sing happy birthday, tell their birthday wishes, and watch you blow out your candle. You can also have them watch you open up the gifts they’ve sent you beforehand. 

Watch a movie via Netflix Party mode.

If you and your friends love watching movies together, why not plan a virtual movie date with them using Netflix Party? All you need to do is install the Google Chrome extension, select a movie or a tv show, send the link to your friends and enjoy! One cool thing about this service is the synchronized playback. So when someone in the group needs to get a popcorn refill or a quick break, everyone’s screen will pause and resume at the same time. You could also use the group chat feature to share your thoughts about the show.

Play board games while on video

If you and your friends love to hang out together and play board games, plan a game night by setting up a video conference using Zoom or Google Hangouts and find a digital or mobile version of your favorite game. If not, choose one game that everyone has a copy of at home and make necessary adjustments. It is more challenging, anyway!

Send a card

Sending a card is one of the simplest ways to show your love and appreciation for someone. Create a greeting card at home and slip it through their front door or drop in their mailbox for a little surprise. If you live far away from each other, go paperless by using an online service that makes it easier to create customizable ecards that you can send online.

Order food delivery

All restaurants are closed but most of them still offer home deliveries. If there’s a special occasion, order your favorite food from your local restaurant and celebrate at home with family. You can also surprise someone with their favorite donut or pizza by giving their address instead of yours. Don't forget to pay for it!

Dress up fancy

Celebrating your birthday at home doesn’t mean you have to celebrate it in your PJs. Invite your friends for a virtual night of glam at the comfort of your own homes by showing up in your fanciest dress. Ask everyone to prepare a pantry-friendly snack, mix yourself your favorite drink, and, most importantly, have a good time.