How to Have a Successful Quarantined Christmas

December 9, 2020 by Aubrey Meister

Christmas this year is going to look a little bit different. Due to the coronavirus pandemic, there are restrictions on large gatherings across the United States. Though guidelines vary by state, some families are looking for ways to gather without the risk of spreading the virus. 

Here are 10 tips for having a safe and successful holiday season in 2020! 

Tips for a Quarantined 2020 Holiday

Handwrite your holiday cards

When you send out holiday cards this year, make them a little more personal than you usually do. Use the extra time you have at home and add a handwritten message to each one. This is something the whole family can do together. If you’re really in the mood to get creative, you could even make your Christmas cards by hand with craft supplies. Try making these snowman cards or check out these best places to order greeting cards, with coupons!

Take advantage of a white Christmas at home

If you happen to live in a state that gets snow in December, why not fully enjoy it this year? Head outside and build a snowman with the family. Or look for a sledding hill that’s not too busy. You’re never too old to have a snow day! 

Schedule a call with Santa Claus 

While you’re at home with the kids, let them enjoy the Christmas magic while quarantined. Even if they can’t visit Santa at the mall this year, there are ways for them to talk to him. Use a service like Santa’s Club to book a call with Santa. If Santa’s Club doesn’t work for your family, there are plenty of similar options available online.

Go above and beyond with the decorations

Since you’ll be spending more time at home this year, why not make your home look a little more festive? Set up an extra Christmas tree or add a wreath to every door. If you’re crafty, you can make more decorations to display too. Try making an orange garland or paint your own ornaments. 

Host a virtual cookie-decorating contest

Even though you'll be quarantining, you don’t have to miss out on all of the fun festivities this year! If your family or friends enjoy decorating cookies, why not make it a competition? Create a text messaging group chat that includes everyone who’s in on the fun. Then, each person can send photos of their finished cookies. Let everyone weigh in and vote for their favorites. 

Drop off or mail gifts and cards ahead of time

If you’re planning on mailing gifts or holiday cards this year, be sure to get them out as soon as possible. There may be shipping delays due to many people shopping online this year. You could also drop off gifts and cards if your friends and family are local. Make sure these drop-offs are contactless to keep everyone safe. If you don’t live near your friends or family, mail them a gift basket filled with snacks to enjoy during the quarantined holiday. 

Host a Zoom gathering

Zoom is one way that you can still “see” your family and friends this year. Schedule a Zoom call on Christmas Day or another day around the holiday. You can come up with a game or two to play as a group. You could also all open your presents on the call or eat a holiday meal together, virtually. 

Have a holiday family movie night

A quarantined Christmas means you will be spending lots of time with the people who live in your household. One way to make things a little bit more exciting is by planning a fun movie night! Choose your favorite Christmas movie or find a new one to try. Don’t forget the festive snacks and drinks. 

Enjoy the Christmas lights

To safely get in the Christmas spirit, go on a drive around your neighborhood. Despite the pandemic, many of your neighbors are probably decorating the exterior of their homes. Look for nearby neighborhoods with Christmas lights once you’ve checked yours out. You may also be able to find drive-through lights displays in your area. 

Pull out the matching holiday pajamas

Since you’re hanging out at home this year, you can put your Christmas pjs to good use! If you have room in your budget, pick out a few new pairs to cycle through for the month of December. If you really want to have some fun with your pajamas, make a competition out of it with your friends or family. Remember to keep things virtual if they don’t live with you! You can find great options available at Zulily. Use these Zulily coupon codes to save: