Whether we are in the middle of a pandemic or you live far from your family, this is how to celebrate Thanksgiving virtually.
The holidays this year are going to look a little different. Although we may not be able to celebrate Thanksgiving by enjoying a large meal with family around the dining table, thanks to the wonders of technology, we can still feel connected this holiday. With a little bit of preparation and a few strategic app downloads, we can celebrate Thanksgiving virtually.
Apps that help us game together
HouseParty– this app, for iOS or Android, allows you to play games such as Heads Up, Pictionary, Uno and more.
Among Us– Bond with family members by trying to figure out who the “alien impostor” in the game is before he or she murders everyone.
Skribbl– draw and guess words (similar to Pictionary) with multiple players in this fun app. You can also play Pictionary over Zoom using the whiteboard feature- get directions here: Pictionary on Zoom
Psych– From the people who brought us Heads Up!, this game has you try to guess the real answer to crazy questions. Have you friends and family all download the app and get ready to play together and laugh.
Games to play virtually with friends and family
If not everyone you want to celebrate with virtually has a smartphone or personal device, consider creating a live challenge or themed party to include all party-goers on one central computer or smart TV.
Plan an ugly sweater party – Encourage friends and family to DIY a hideous top with fabric markers or a hot glue gun and goofy accessories such as glitter pompoms and googly eyes.
Host a virtual scavenger hunt (this one is perfect for kids!) – Pre-plan a list of 10-15 items most people have at home but aren’t necessarily just sitting on the kitchen counter. A few items to include: nail clippers, red shirt, ornament with a reindeer on it, etc. Set a timer and tell your party attendees the first person to return to the screen with all of the items wins!
Holiday Mad-Libs – Ask friends and family to give you silly or funny nouns, adverbs, etc. to create a funny holiday story and then read the story you create together out loud and laugh. Repeat as many times as you want to! Find some fun MadLibs here.
Preplan a Fun Cookie Party to Enjoy Virtually
If you want to enjoy a family activity together even when you can’t actually be together, why not preplan a cookie-decorating party? Have everyone pre-purchase (or pre-bake!) sugar cookies and all the toppings for decorating: frosting, sprinkles, chocolate chips, piping, etc. Then decorate and eat your cookies together over Zoom. For an even more festive feel, have everyone cheers with a glass of festive bubbly. Try sparkling grape juice for a fancy treat appropriate for all ages. Then compare cookies and (virtually) hand out awards for favorite design, ugliest decoration, etc!
However you choose to celebrate the holidays this season, just remember, spending time with loved ones is the most important part of the season. Prioritize time together and enjoy the new memories you will make this year, even if they are only virtual.