Like everything in our lives these days, the holidays will be different this year. With nearly every aspect of life transformed by COVID-19 and physical distancing, we asked friends and colleagues how they plan to reinvent their year-end festivities.

Here are a few ideas we think will lift spirits, bring smiles and make this a year to remember for all the right reasons.

1. Experience the lights of the season. Take a walk and see the lights in your area, visit Nathan Phillips Square at City Hall to view the 60’ Christmas tree, or take a virtual tour of the Northern Lights.
   
   
2. Bake cookies and exchange some delicious treats along with those family favourite recipes.
   
   
3. Bring a bottle of champagne to a neighbour’s doorstep. Ring the bell, pop open the cork, and share a glass of bubbly (at a safe distance from one-another) to toast in the New Year.
   
   
4. Do something special each day of the week. Light candles on Monday night. Write a note to a friend on a Tuesday. On Wednesday, take a bubble bath and play your favourite holiday tunes. On Thursday, have an indoor picnic or karaoke night…the list goes on!
   
   
5. Mail or post photos of your favourite holiday memories, and remind folks close to you that we will be together again.
   
   
6. Any sewers in your inner circle? Ask each of them to stitch a 12” x 12” piece of quilt. Gather each piece together and donate the finished quilt to someone in need.
   
   

7. In lieu of the usual holiday gifts, make a donation to honour someone special in your life. Rather than another pair of socks, sweater or a new tie they do not need, give your loved one something more meaningful by making a donation in their honour.

   When you donate to Kensington Health you’ll brighten someone’s day with a gift that helps frontline teams and those in our community who are most vulnerable.

   To put Kensington Health on your wish list or to honour someone special, please visit kensingtonhealth.org/in-it-together and make a donation. 

There are so many ways to keep the spirit of the season. Be creative, have fun and inspire someone in a new and meaningful way. Happy Holidays!