As we navigate through the ongoing challenges of the pandemic, many families are considering a virtual Thanksgiving this year. Remember back to early 2020 when everything shut down? We couldn’t help but think, “This will be a strange Easter!” Fast forward, and here we are with each holiday still altered by the circumstances. While vaccines have brought some relief, many are still being cautious, especially those with high-risk loved ones. So, as the winter holidays approach, you may be contemplating a virtual Thanksgiving gathering. What does that entail? Can we still connect with family? Can we create joyful memories? The answer is yes, but it may look a bit different than usual.
If your Thanksgiving typically includes a large gathering of 35 relatives from various states, you might need to rethink that this year, especially if health risks are a concern. After all, cramming everyone into one space where food is shared and air is exchanged poses risks. But it doesn’t mean we have to skip the holidays entirely. Luckily, we live in a digital age filled with technology that allows us to connect with loved ones in creative ways. Here’s how to host a memorable virtual Thanksgiving.
Advantages of Virtual Thanksgiving
Hosting a virtual Thanksgiving comes with its own benefits:
- More Guests: You can invite more loved ones! Whether it’s your sister who is expecting and can’t travel or a friend recovering from COVID-19, everyone can join in from the comfort of their homes.
- Less Cleanup: The joy of family gatherings is often overshadowed by the cleanup. With a virtual setting, you can skip the scrubbing and jump straight to relaxing on your couch after the event.
- The Mute Feature: Perhaps the best part of virtual gatherings is the ability to mute that one relative who tends to dominate the conversation with unwanted rants.
Tips for a Successful Virtual Thanksgiving
To make your virtual Thanksgiving a hit, consider these suggestions:
- Choose a Platform: Select a user-friendly platform like Zoom, which allows for easy access and even recording of the event. If Zoom isn’t appealing, alternatives like Google Meets or houseparty.com can work just as well.
- Interactive Invitations: Send out engaging invites where guests can RSVP and share what recipes they’ll be trying this year. You can even set a fun dress code!
- Plan the Menu: Food is a central part of Thanksgiving. Coordinate with guests on what everyone will be eating. Local caterers can deliver meals, or you can all cook together via video chat, sharing food stories and recipes.
- Thanksgiving Games: Keep the fun alive with games! Board games can be adapted for virtual play and online games like a Thanksgiving scavenger hunt can engage everyone.
- Schedule Touch Points: Create moments to connect throughout the evening, like a cocktail hour or toasts at the end of the night.
- Capture the Moments: Set up a virtual photo booth with fun filters for guests to capture the occasion and create lasting memories.
- Cyber Shopping Together: If shopping is part of your family tradition, make the most of online deals together while staying safe at home.
See? Celebrating during a pandemic doesn’t have to be dreary. With a little creativity and the right tools, you might discover a new way to enjoy Thanksgiving.
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Summary
Hosting a virtual Thanksgiving can be a rewarding experience filled with connection, laughter, and creativity. By utilizing technology, planning engaging activities, and coordinating with loved ones on food, you can still enjoy the holiday spirit while staying safe.