Thanksgiving this year will be different from previous years. Between COVID-19, social tensions, and numerous families losing their income, it could be hard to meet in person or feel grateful.

But alas Thanksgiving, is a time to eat, and take a breath. Take a moment and enjoy some good time with your family and friends. You can do these activities virtually.

Scavenger Hunt:
You can do this one of two ways. You can write riddles that will require your friends and family to find items in their homes. The riddles can be simple where the clue is for your loved one to find an item that symbolizes love, hope, happiness, etc. All you have to do is write the riddles. The second way is to send your loved ones small items. Have one of them be in charge of hiding the items. This is amazing if there are young kids. It’s like a Thanksgiving Easter egg hunt.

Netflix and Chat:
Pick a movie. It can be a classic movie that you always watch or a new movie that you are excited about. Meet up on Zoom or Facebook Rooms to share stories, treats, and chisme. Then after an hour or so, mute yourselves and watch the movie together. You can still chat during the movie, write messages, and so on.

Gym Time:
I know, I know. Who does gym time on Thanksgiving? Well, some people do and this is for them. A group of you can hop on a video call and do a few yoga stretches together, mediation, or a cardio workout. This activity can be done first thing in the morning to start the day with some gratitude or a dose of endorphins. Your group can watch a video on YouTube, have one of you lead it, or have a fitness coach lead you for one morning.

Pie Baking:
You can do this activity with any Thanksgiving food item. You all bake together while chatting. You can share tips, tricks, and what Sharon in your office is doing. However, to add a dose of closeness, you all can exchange a recipe and make it a way another family member or friend does.

Any of these activities will bring you together more than a phone call. Thanksgiving is about closeness and gratitude. If you cannot be in person, that doesn’t mean you can’t be close.