With COVID-19 and social distancing, the holiday season will be different from what we are all accustomed to. Just because we might not be able to participate in old traditions doesn’t mean that we can’t create new ones! Here are six ways you and your family can make the most of this December.

Deanna Rose Light Show: Every year, Deanna Rose puts on their Holiday Lights event, which synchronizes a light show and classic seasonal songs. The event is open from 5-11 p.m. every night from Nov. 26 through Jan. 7 and there is no entry fee for this entertaining experience; all it requires is a car (and perhaps some snacks)! Simply find a parking space with a nice view, turn off your headlights, tune into 90.5 Rose FM, and enjoy the show!

Ice Skating: Despite other winter activities, outdoor ice skating allows you to have fun with your family while staying safe! Just make sure to maintain distance from other skaters and wear a mask and you will be good to go for this COVID-friendly outing. 

Contactless Gift Exchange: Just because social-distance rules advise against meeting with friends doesn’t mean that you can’t spread some holiday cheer! By using apps such as Elfster, you can virtually plan gift exchanges as well as create digital wish lists. Once you deliver your gift, hop on Zoom or Facetime to open the gifts together!

Zoom Bake Off: One of the most loved parts of the holiday season is the abundance of desserts. In order to stay sanitary, consider baking delicious treats with family or friends over Zoom and even make it a competition! If you end up with extra treats, put them in decorated baggies and deliver them to neighbors as a way of extending holiday cheer.

Build a Snowman: Assuming it snows this year, staying at home is the perfect opportunity to get outside and build a snowman with your family!  Not only will these cute lawn additions bring you cheer, but also those who drive by.  If you would like a challenge, try to make your snowman unique; for example, make him upside down or dress him up like a family member.

Movie Marathon: Whether you love classic holiday movies or could watch the Hallmark Channel for hours, there is something for everyone during December! Stay cozy inside by binge-watching all your favorites with your family. For the timeless-classic lovers, be sure to watch “It’s a Wonderful Life”, “Elf”, or “A Charlie Brown Christmas”. If you can’t get enough of cheesy Hallmark movies, download the Hallmark Movie Checklist app to keep track of what you’ve watched.