5 ways to make holiday magic virtual this season

October 1st ushers in the season of sweaters, candles, and pumpkin spice lattes. A goodbye to summer and step toward the holiday season. From Halloween through New Years Day there are countless ways to celebrate, gather, and indulge. 

This year the holidays will look different for all of us - whether it means virtual costume competitions on halloween or mailing gifts for Secret Santa - navigating the season with caution for COVID-19 while maintaining the fun and connection that comes this time of year will be crucial. 

Whether you are celebrating with friends or looking to engage your co-workers, we have a few ideas on how to navigate the season with some smiles, laughs and dare we say it.. warm fuzzies.

Get into Character

If annual halloween parties were your thing, consider the opportunity to embrace your costume design skills and take it to the next level. Show off your character with videos to friends or family, submit staged photos for costume competitions or even hold a competition of your own within your community or workplace. Take the digital monster mash a step further by watching your halloween favorites together using Netflix Party.


Take Flight

This time of year many folks find themselves on one flight after another. If you are opting out of holiday travel this season, you can still plan to enjoy all the perks. Pick a date to treat yourself to an “in flight” experience - rent some new movies you’ve been dying to watch, purchase your favorite in flight snack, and put your phone on airplane mode to truly relax - all without having to worry about the turbulence or tiny bathrooms! 

Give Back

The holidays are also a time of giving, whether it is donating on Giving Tuesday or simply giving back to those in need with your time - there is no shortage of ways to contribute in 2020. From simply funding families in need to volunteering at organizations that fight food insecurity, support people experiencing homelessness, or assist with virtual education and extracurricular activities, you can find something that makes sense for your level of comfort and availability.


Remember the Little Moments

You have likely already thought about scheduling a virtual call with family or friends on major holidays to celebrate - but have you considered the less obvious traditions? What about going out with old friends the night before Thanksgiving, or hitting stores early in the morning on black Friday? Putting in a little time up front can ensure you don’t lose the magic, and maybe even gain something new along the way. Whether it is creating a virtual dance party for Thanksgiving Eve, or planning to get up early, sip some hot coffee, and video chat with a friend while you shop online, be sure to keep the holiday magic alive!

Don’t Forget About Snail Mail

We have yet to find anyone who doesn’t enjoy receiving a personalized piece of mail. Hand-written notes, DIY gifts or even doing a game of white elephant by using our friends at the USPS can be a great way to feel connected and share some laughs. Plus, what a great way to regift all those quarantine puzzles sitting in your closet! 

Our creative ideas for engaging during the holidays don’t stop here - if you are interested in finding ways to make your employees, clients or stakeholders feel the holiday magic this year, drop us a line, we’d love to chat!

Erin Owenby