This holiday season looks different than most years, but you don’t need to cancel all your festivities.

Instead, there are several ways you can celebrate the holidays virtually this year. With COVID-19 cases at an all-time high in the United States, many families are opting in for a virtual holiday celebration. Virtual Christmas parties require the same planning as in-person holidays. But don’t worry, we’ve gathered a list of the best virtual party ideas, so you can keep the Christmas spirit alive while you celebrate at home.

Invitations
If you are hosting an online Christmas celebration, first, choose which virtual platform you are going to use. Zoom is the most popular service to use and what most guests will be familiar with. Then, make it feel special with an invitation. You can send a nicely designed evite to guests at least three weeks before the party with the virtual platform link.

Theme
Next, pick a theme! Are you hosting a festive happy hour, game night, or ugly sweater contest? Choose activities and virtual backgrounds based on the theme of your party. You can also send gifts and party favors to guests ahead of time and set the dress code.

Activities
If you are looking for an activity to keep guests engaged during the holiday party, we’ve gathered a list of ideas that are great for family and friends of all ages!

  • Game Night
  • Ugly Sweater Contest
  • Secret Santa
  • Cookie Decorating Contest
  • Christmas Movie Night
  • Wreath Making
  • Paint and Sip

While the holidays look a little different this year, that doesn’t mean you can’t still celebrate with style! Another great virtual holiday activity is to host a Christmas décor contest. Let guests virtually give a tour of their homes, and guests can vote on their favorite decorations.