With many holidays nearing and COVID-19 cases being higher than ever in the United States, it is important to consider some COVID-19-friendly activities to keep you and your loved ones safe. According to the New Jersey COVID-19 Information Hub, all indoor gatherings will be limited to ten individuals, and outdoor gatherings to 25 individuals, effective November 17 and December 7. The use of masks is also being strongly encouraged in personal relations and mandatory for entrance into public buildings and businesses. Despite these rules, there are many ways to continue traditions and complete spirit-lifting activities. Here are some fun and simple activities for you and a small group that abides by New Jersey’s COVID-19 guidelines!

1. Plan a movie night! This is the perfect time to cozy up on the couch with a few friends or family to binge-watch the series you’ve been missing. A movie night is safe and can be socially distanced if necessary. This is a relaxing activity that requires minimal setup, and with a couple of holiday treats and beloved seasonal movies, this is the perfect way to bond with your friends while maintaining a safe interaction. 
2. Get busy in the kitchen! Baking is an easy way to bond with those around you and can happen with under ten people. Making holiday-themed cookies, cupcakes, or cakes could be a fun way to celebrate the upcoming season, or just to hang out with friends. Whether they be homemade or from the package, baking is a great way to devote time away from the screen while still connecting with others. 

   

3. Build a gingerbread house! There are so many ways to make this activity worthwhile. Do it with a group of friends, or just your immediate family on a nice winter weekend. Making it a decorating competition is an easy way to satisfy the competitive spark of those around you. Simply allocate a judge, a time period, and start decorating for some easy indoor fun. 
4. Go on a holiday lights tour! Trying to stay warm? A drive-through holiday lights tour may be the perfect activity for you! Remember to follow the ten-person maximum rule, but have fun touring through areas like the PNC Arts Center of Magic Lights located in Holmdel, NJ. For only $25-30 per vehicle, you can drive through the display to enjoy fun setups of lights (jerseybest.com).  

   

5. If it’s snowing outside – go sledding! This easy outdoor activity only requires a sled and a good hill. Wearing a mask while sledding and maintaining distance from other sledders makes this an easy traditional activity to continue doing while staying safe! 

Despite the challenges that the Coronavirus has presented us with, these are among the many ways that we will be able to maintain the holiday spirit. Protecting those around is important, so following the guidelines this holiday season while doing fun activities will allow for the best of both worlds.