It’s been a long eight months, and everybody is just about to go stir crazy, but should people break away from state mandates and have family get-togethers for the holidays?

Some people might have chosen their one special little group or family member to socialise with during Covid19 to keep the insanity away, and in moderation (and following safety guidelines) that’s reasonable. But when you amplify the holiday craziness over hundreds of thousands of restless Americans, things might get out of hand.

Especially now with the new Covid19 restrictions in place, it’s more important than ever to be making good decisions when it comes to socialising. Gov. Jay Inslee has repeatedly made statements about having fewer, shorter, and safer interactions, and how limiting close gatherings is crucial to reducing Covid cases. According to Washington State Coronavirus Response (WSCR), “Gathering in groups—even with people we know—may spread COVID-19. The more people we interact with at a gathering and the longer that interaction lasts, the higher the risk of becoming infected. The safest action, especially if you’re in a high-risk category, is to avoid gatherings and find different ways to celebrate,”

“I think the best way to celebrate this year, in my opinion,” writes Jenna Minneman (‘24), “is to try to enjoy the holidays while keeping safe, like doing less public activities or creating new and safer traditions,”

The important thing to remember is that the holiday season is still meant for families and well-wishers, but this is the year for moderation. We all love a good thanksgiving meal, or opening presents on Christmas Day, but is it really worth the risks? If too many people try to be the ‘one exception’, there really won’t be an exception at all. 

“For everyone’s safety,” Gracie Hemmat (‘22) says. “I don’t think people should be making special cases,”

“Maybe only close family that can confirm they haven’t been exposed,” adds Maryn Dunsire (‘26). 

So maybe the holiday season may not be the most wonderful time of this year, but there are still plenty other ways to keep spirits bright. Send postcards and letters to friends or distant family members, mail a package or talk on the phone. Finding ways to connect – even if remotely – brings more joy than nothing at all. Especially through virtual face-to-face meetings, holiday cheer will surely skyrocket. Get on your video chat and get those festive backgrounds in place for a festive family facetime!