Tips for Hosting A Socially Distanced Holiday

The long-awaited holiday season is right around the corner. We need the community and joy that comes with it more than ever. And yet, our desire to be together can’t outweigh what has become almost a year-long, global effort to prevent the spread and transmission of COVID. Taking into account this balance, we may have to approach the COVID holidays a little differently than we normally would. Here are some tips released from the CDC to stay healthy and happy this COVID holidays season…

Whenever possible try not to make unnecessary travel. Use Zoom or regular phone calls to connect with loved ones that live more than a short drive away.

The more you can prepare your family and your home for the various activities you all wish to engage in, the better. Have masks, soap, disinfectant, etc. at the ready. Consider who in the family interacts with who and goes where in the days leading up to Grandma and Grandpa’s visit. A two-week quarantine to prepare is a good rule of thumb.

Remind family members and guests to wash their hands regularly for 20+ seconds, wear masks whenever they go out in public, and wash bedding and clothing often. Regularly disinfect frequently touched surfaces in your home including door handles and faucets.

This may seem like a no brainer but when it comes to the holidays it’s a difficult standard to uphold. Avoid hugging, kissing, or even shaking hands. Try to maintain six feet of distance from others whenever possible.

Ventilate your home by opening doors and windows as weather and temperatures permit. Hang outdoors if possible. Fresh air will help move any possible germs out of your home.

If anyone begins showing symptoms, have a plan of action in place to get that person tested as soon as possible. In addition, anyone exposed to that person should quarantine prior to receiving test results and of course continue if the test comes back positive. If someone does test positive, know where to seek quality medical care and how to arrange travel home if necessary.

Avoid potluck-style meals. One person should serve the prepared food to each plate and then each guest can retrieve their plate one at a time. Maybe even consider creating small ramekin style servings of shareable items including dips, dressings, gravy, etc. Wash dishes promptly with hot soapy water and offer no touch trash cans if possible.

This is an odd one, but yelling or singing loudly can encourage the spreading of airborne germs like the virus. Keep music levels low so people don’t have to shout to communicate.

As is probably already the case, treat your pets just like you do your family members. Limit their contact with other people and animals. They are at risk of contracting and spreading the virus as well.

Mostly to yourself. We may not be able to do all of the traditions we have done in the past exactly the way we normally would, but that doesn’t mean the holidays have to be any less enjoyable. Get creative and consider making new traditions. Show gratitude for what has been and show patience for what will be. Tis’ after all the season to give and show thanks.