Virtual Holiday Celebrations: Ideas for Online Festive Gatherings

In the age of COVID, almost everyone got used to doing one thing or another virtually. It has become standard for a lot of companies to use an at-home model or a hybrid between it and traditional on-site workdays. Even a lot of doctors are still doing basic visits via telehealth.

But that and getting an Instagram following with a few stalkers aren’t the only things that the virtual world is good for. It has also enabled friends and families to see each other “face-to-face” without having to travel across the country. These days, there are a lot of games and activities that can bring the family together, no matter where they are.

Here are a few ideas we put together that may help make your online gathering a little more festive.

All I Want for Christmas is to Escape!

Escape rooms are increasingly popular, and you can find venues in almost every major city. However, that doesn’t mean that you have to shed your men’s Christmas pajamas and head off to town; these days, there are some great Christmas-themed escape rooms online.

You can gather your family or friends and work together to solve puzzles, riddles, and clues. It’s an incredibly fun way to bring people together while also playing detective in the process.

If you’re looking for a more low-key activity, why not try a virtual game of charades? Charade is an excellent icebreaker, and it’s easy to play over video calls. You can even add some extra Christmas flair by having everyone dress up in their favorite holiday costumes.

Independence Day

A lot of people spend the 4th of July at the lake or having a BBQ in the backyard, but if you can’t get together in person, it’s the perfect time to have a feud. Or rather, play The Feud. This virtual game is based on the popular classic Family Feud game show, and now the whole family can play. There are various themes available, and it could be the perfect way to relax and have fun after a long day in the sun.

Halloween

Halloween can be a great holiday to celebrate virtually, but you don’t have to limit yourself to the traditional costume parties. There are plenty of options for spooky fun that don’t require breaking out the fake blood and face paint.

Another great option is to host an online game of “Never Have I Ever” using a Halloween theme. Each participant takes turns asking questions like, “Never have I ever gone trick-or-treating in a costume” or “Never have I ever eaten candy corn.” Each time someone answers yes, they must take a sip of their drink or do some kind of silly task, like doing ghost impressions. Whoever makes it through the game without taking a sip or performing the task is declared the winner.

Thanksgiving

Finally, Thanksgiving may be one of the best holidays to celebrate virtually. It’s a great opportunity for family members to come together and share what they are thankful for, no matter where they live.

For the adults, try a Fall Taboo game, and for the kids, create an online scavenger hunt where each participant is given a list of items of various colors they must find in their own house. At the end, award points for each item they find and award the winner an official scavenger hunt certificate.

Expand on these ideas. Get creative and customize it all to fit your family’s and friends’ likes, dislikes, and personalities. Celebrating the holidays online can be festive and fun, and with the right activities, you can throw a party that everyone enjoys.