The COVID-19 pandemic may have changed and influenced the Christmas shopping behavior of most Filipinos, but this will not stop them from continuing this year’s tradition of holiday gift-giving. This year’s holiday celebrations will be different from what we’re accustomed to as safety protocols continue to regulate gatherings and enforce physical distancing, reunions, get-togethers, and Christmas bazaar shopping.
For those who insist on going out, social distancing and wearing face masks and shield is still being mandated by the government. While staying at home and avoiding large gatherings is the best way to not get infected, here are some helpful tips on how to celebrate the Christmas season safely and with as much cheer as possible:
1. Decorate your homes for the holidays
Welcome the holiday spirit by adding familiar Christmas traditions to your house. Build the Christmas tree together with the family. Let the kids hang the Christmas ornaments and other Christmas decorations in the house.
2. Have a virtual party
Since it’s impossible to have gatherings physically, do it online. Family bonding and holiday celebrations will have to be virtual this year. By distancing ourselves from people beyond our current social group, particularly those who live far away and our elders, we are keeping them and the people around us safe
3. Do your gift shopping and shipping early
Buying gifts will be a lot different due to the pandemic. People are scared to be exposed to the virus so mostly are resorting to online shopping, rather than going to a physical store. Although more customers will be ordering online to avoid malls, delivery companies will be flooded—so you’ll want to buy and deliver presents early to make sure they arrive on time.
4. Share the love
Physical presents may not be feasible to everyone this season but sharing and showing the love to people around us is the best gift that we can give this season. After all, this season is a time to be grateful and If 2020 has taught us anything, it’s how much the people in our lives mean to us, so go ahead and spread some happiness and love where you can.
This pandemic shouldn’t hinder us on how we spend our holidays. Whatever December may bring, the spirit of Christmas is one thing it can’t steal. And like how we’ve adapted to a lot of what’s called the ‘new normal’, we’re still going to adapt to new ways to celebrate Christmas.
Remember, we’re all in this together!
Reference:
https://medium.com/age-of-awareness/christmas-in-the-year-of-the-coronavirus-103fffb9891b