Pandemic Thanksgiving

In a time when many of us are breaking away from the large gatherings and typical Thanksgiving traditions, we’ve put together a roundup of ways to help you fill the holiday with joy and balance while staying safe.

Connect Online

Connect Online

The one thing that has helped millions of people stay connected during these socially-deprived times is video-chats. At first, it may seem strange to share a meal with your grandma, favorite cousin, or best friends over the screen, but reaching out, seeing their face, and hearing their voice helps make a room feel full… even when they have to be far away. This year, share thanksgiving from the safety of your home while connecting online!

Order Food

Order Food

Being away from family during the holidays can be hard, especially if you’re used to others preparing the holiday meal. Instead of resorting to pasta or ordinary meals on Thanksgiving, why not try ordering. Many restaurants will deliver perfectly portioned turkey meals and desserts right to your door. Plus, ordering out not only fills your stomach with the warmth and happiness that surrounds the holiday, but it also helps local businesses in such a time of need.

Start New Traditions

Start New Traditions

If you have been feeling like cooking a big meal isn’t ideal this year, you are not alone. A 30-pound turkey for one or two people just doesn’t make sense. But, what is Thanksgiving without the bird and trimmings? We hear you. For those of you who love to cook, this year, new, smaller traditions might be in order. Succulent game hens, baked potatoes and mini pies… it's all just as tasty but mini-sized.

On the plus side, these mini Thanksgiving meals mean less stress and time in the kitchen and more time for oh, a bubble bath, and some much-deserved self-pampering.

Get Outside

Get Outside

On a holiday that is founded on coming together, giving thanks, and sharing, it might be hard for you to not see your friends and family. To do this safely, organize an outdoor gathering. If you live in a place with a mild climate, plan to eat Thanksgiving outside, or for those in colder states, plan an after-meal walk, run, campfire. Even if you have to wear your mask and stay a safe distance away, there are plenty of fun alternatives to seeing and being with the people you care about during the holidays.

Decorate

Decorate

To keep spirits high, this year, do not skimp on decorations. Even if the house won't be full of extended friends and family, put up the garlands, table settings, and all the festive things that make it feel like the holidays. Snap pictures of your decor, send them to loved ones and share them on social media. Getting in the spirit of Thanksgiving with decor will ensure your home is filled with joy during these difficult times.

Volunteer or Donate Digitally

Volunteer or Donate Digitally

For many of us, Thanksgiving is a day to volunteer in the community, however, during a global pandemic, it is difficult to do this in person. This year, instead of going to your local homeless shelter or meals on wheels, consider donating to the food bank online or volunteering to grocery shop for people in your community who are at risk. On top of that, there are many virtual volunteering opportunities. Remember, sharing and caring while staying is still possible.

Dress It Up

Dress It Up

We can not stress this one enough. If you are used to dressing up for Thanksgiving, go ahead and get dressed up. Even if you are staying home, put on your holiday outfit and rock it around your living room. Feeling your best starts with you doing you.

As you navigate the holidays during these difficult times, we hope these tips help you find balance and joy. Even though there may be distance and fewer people gathering for Thanksgiving this year, always remember you are never alone and there are plenty of ways to still spread cheer.

Are you doing anything special or unique this year? Share your pandemic Thanksgiving ideas with us below!