This Christmas, we’re allowed to celebrate with four other people from outside our household, but not everyone will be able to do that. Some Amsterdammers are in isolation with housemates who also have Covid-19, and for some of us with family in other countries, it hasn’t been possible to go home. So, how do you celebrate Christmas with your housemates, when you’ve already seen them leave dirty dishes in the sink and toss towels on the floor all year long?
1. Make sure dinner is a team effort
You probably feel tempted to do everything exactly the way your mom does this Christmas, but remember that your family isn’t the only one with traditions. Make the day (and the dinner) a team effort, so everyone can have their own Christmas comfort while they’re away from home. Oh, and don’t forget to agree on who’s going to do the dishes and dry them afterward…
2. Stock up on plenty of drinks
Whether you get along well or usually give each other the cold shoulder, you’ll probably need plenty of alcohol to keep yourselves entertained all day. If you’re in quarantine, make sure to have a big order delivered.
3. Plan a day full of fun activities
This is a fun way to add some variety, whether you’re with family or not—because let’s be honest, Christmas Day can be pretty boring when you’re an adult. Whether you make mulled wine in the evening or play a few board games while giving your stomach a rest, giving the day a little structure helps avoid those awkward silent moments when you inevitably find yourself thinking about how much you’d love to spend the day with someone else.
4. Avoid social media
Staring at your phone all day not only makes you pretty rude, but on top of that—no one wants to see smug reminders from those whodid make it homefor Christmas.
5. Make sure your family is ready for a FaceTime call
Need a break from all the social media drama? Set aside some time to talk to your family. It brings a little normalcy and a welcome distraction, just when you need it most.
6. A bath on Christmas Day is your salvation
If you’re really struggling with the change, run a hot bath and enjoy some quiet reading. You can pretend it’s a Christmas tradition you “do every year,” while you secretly catch your breath.
7. Remember that you don’t have to act fake-excited when your grandma gives you yet another [insert flashy gift here]
Although it’s the thought that counts, it’s definitely pretty awkward to receive an unwanted gift. Just be grateful that this year you can both give and receive gifts in the mail—so you can avoid that awful, theatrical drama when you open something you don’t like.
8. Use it as an opportunity to create new traditions
Is there something you’ve always wanted to do on Christmas Day, but your family wasn’t on board with? Seize this chance to make Christmas Day entirely your own. Whether it’s a delicious mimosa in the morning or a Christmas dinner later in the day—embrace the change and spend the big day exactly as you want to (with your housemate(s)’ approval, of course).
