It’s safe to say we could all do with a little extra love and kindness this Christmas. This year has been a challenge, and with the prospect of a quieter Christmas, it might not be the end to 2020 we hoped. However, there are still lots of fun and creative ways for us all to stay connected this Christmas.
We know the novelty of video calls may have worn off, but it’s time to bring that creativity back to life again. At Balance, our team have continued with our ‘Friday Fun’ sessions every week since the start of lockdown in March. And the fun hasn’t worn off. It’s still a perfect way to round off the week.
Home for Christmas
With the Government’s most recent announcement it seems like a family Christmas of sorts may be possible for some, although still not quite the festive period we all know and love.
Christmas can be difficult for many people for many reasons, let alone after the year we have all experienced. So, we all need a little light in our lives right now.
Christmas decorations have been going up earlier than ever this year, for this exact reason. So, as we near December, if you haven’t got the baubles out the loft yet, it might be time to sprinkle some festive cheer around your home.
Also, it’s important to remember; a little kindness goes a long way. Whether it’s checking-in with a neighbour or reaching out to someone you haven’t spoken to in a while, or just a friendly smile to a passer-by on your festive walks. There are lots of ways we can keep connected this festive season.
Fun ways to stay connected
Visiting the ones you love (virtually)
The Government guidelines might have put a limit on who we can see face-to-face. But, over the last year, we’ve all become tech-savvy, and there are so many other ways to connect. Our calendars won’t be as busy as usual this year, but why not make a schedule to catch up with friends and family.
With a bit of forward-thinking, presents can be dropped off in advance and opened together on a video call, and that traditional game of charades can follow shortly after too.
Online games
Ok, so we might not be able to all gather around the table for the traditional Christmas board game, but there are lots of other ways to share some fun at a distance.
At Balance, we alternate who hosts the games each week, and it’s been amazing to see the new ideas and innovations from everyone. We’ve dressed up, played Pointless, Pictionary, bingo and hosted any number of online quizzes. For inspiration, you could use Skribbl for Pictionary, Jackbox for all sorts of weird and wonderful party games, and Gooses quizzes for a great online quiz. Or get creative and put together a quiz.
Watching Christmas movies
If you’ve got Netflix or Disney Plus, then you can stream movies at the same time using Teleparty. It synchronises video playback and offers a chat function so you can watch and chat to people in real-time, with anyone, whether they’re across the road, bridge, or pond. So, snuggle-up and stick your festive favourites on the telly.
Sharing great food and drinks
‘Tis the season to give. We are all guilty of buying a little bit too much for Christmas, and this year with less of us to share it with, if you have excess food, then why not make a little extra for your neighbours or donate your surplus to a local food bank.
There are lots of children’s charities in need of presents for those less fortunate, so why not add a few extra gifts to your shopping list if you can afford to.
Also, if you find yourself with additional free time as work gets quieter, why not find out how you can help people that may be disadvantaged at this time. Donate clothes and food to people in crisis or see what you can do to help those in need.
Getting into the festive spirit
It’s going to be a different Christmas, but 2020 is the year for adapting, and there are lots of innovative ways to enjoy some Christmas traditions.
Here are a few ideas for your reimagined Christmas:
Lights
This year you can enjoy a unique socially-distance magical lights trail at Wollaton Hall. As well as enjoying the 2km of dazzling lights, you also have the opportunity of purchasing traditional mulled wine and roast chestnuts from the vendors along the route.
Panto
The show must go on. If part of your Christmas tradition is going to a family pantomime, then this year should be no different.
The Nottingham Playhouse is bringing Cinderella to the stage. They hope to be able to open their doors again soon (subject to the Government’s latest updates) and have introduced a safe and comfortable experience for all and are offering full refunds should the rules change. There is also an opportunity to join the fun online. They will be live streaming the show on Saturday 19th and Thursday 24th December, and they’re offering an on-demand version.
Alternatively, the Royal Theatre is also hoping to bring you a socially-distanced performance of Sleeping Beauty between Saturday 12th December and Sunday 3rd January. So, you can comfortably get back to enjoying the arts and your festive traditions, should the government rules permit.
We’re not yet out of the storm, but we hope this article has given you some ideas on how to experience a little hope and joy this festive season.
If you have any questions or would like to discuss your finances or an existing financial plan, then please get in touch with us and speak to one of our financial advisers.
