While 2020 as a whole may have felt like one huge disappointment, the holidays can still be something to look forward to. While large family gatherings may be frowned upon during these times, the holiday season can still be a fun and happy time to spend with your loved ones with plenty of ways to keep families safe while still having the joy of being with one another. 

Reducing family gatherings to immediate and close family members may be the safest way to go about it. It reduces the risk of the virus being spread throughout multiple other guests and keeps the family inside of their bubble. However, although large gatherings are not ideal to be held, they may still be attended in a safe way. According to Hackensack Meridian Health, “If you want to invite other people, see if everyone will agree to self-quarantine at home for 14 days beforehand, to limit the spread of COVID-19. For a quarantine to be most effective, guests should be able to drive to your home without stopping for meals or bathroom breaks.” This way people are almost proven to be safe and decrease the spread of the virus among others. 

Another concern for the holiday season is shopping. Holiday shopping can be a hassle, especially when it comes to Black Friday. The best way to be safe while shopping is to avoid in-store shopping overall. Shopping amongst many other shoppers, scrambling to find the perfect gift might not be the safest option this year. To avoid the virus while shopping as a whole, online shopping is the way to go. Online stores usually offer all in-store merchandise and more. This way, one can find all the perfect gifts from home. Local stores and small businesses offer online shopping as well, which would be a great way to help the community. However, if online shopping is not an option, there are still precautions one could take if shopping in-store. According to fool.com, one should get in-store shopping done as early as possible to avoid crowds and contact with others, follow the CDC’s recommendations, and use contactless credit and debit cards, so the least amount of contact is made while being around others. 

Lastly, meals being served at family gatherings may be another safety hazard to be considerate of. Bringing personal food and drinks may be an additional option so dishes are not being shared with one another. “Encourage guests to bring food and drinks for themselves and for members of their own household only; avoid potluck-style gatherings,” as stated by the CDC. This would eliminate any contact while people are gathered close. 

COVID-19 has taken away many experiences for all, but families can still be together with their loved ones while still being responsible and taking the proper safety precautions. Although this holiday season may be different, it’ll be one to never forget.