New Year’s Eve in Pandemic: 5 Activities to do Before Midnight

We can all agree that unlike any other year, 2020 has been one of the most overwhelming moments in our history. Covid-19 pandemic which spread across the world affects many important sectors, such as health, economy, industry, even education. Seeing how schools are closed or business fall down is sadly become a common thing.

Over the course of 5 months, people were advised to restrict any activities which involve travelling, gathering with a lot of people, going to work, even something as simple as having a cup of coffee outside. This necessary precaution was taken to control the spread of Covid-19, so that we can manage to keep ourselves and others safe.

After battling with the uncertainty for quite sometimes, transitional period the large-scale social restrictions (PSBB) has begun. People can now resume their daily activities outside of the house, while still maintaining a strict health protocol. But, of course this doesn’t mean that we can fully return back to the ‘old normal’ and hang out with a lot of people. Responsibility is something that we must uphold.

Even though this restriction will make our holiday season a bit different, we can still do a lot of things that are considered fun but safe. Especially around New Year’s Eve, where you can get creative with the party planning! Today, we’re going to show you just how wonderful it is to celebrate this special day with your loved ones at home, or perhaps in a place where health protocols are applied.

1. Family dinner

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Nothing screams ‘holiday season’ other than this classic tradition. Cody C. Delistraty wrote for The Atlantic that dinner table can often act as a place which unifies family members. During this special occasion, people can catch up about each other’s life, so that no one feels as if they’re being alienated. Since any form of lavish NYE celebrations are forbidden during the pandemic, you can easily switch things up by hosting a nice dinner for your closest family members. This can also be followed by fun yet deep talking sessions, accompany by snacks and any drink of your choice!

2. Camping

Staying at home for a long period of time can be jarring for a lot of people. Not only that, the feeling of uncertainty towards the future can add the tension which will affect your mind and body negatively. During the pandemic, we are required to be more careful in terms of choosing which outdoor activities we can do safely. For instance, those who use to love to go theme park might be considering other options, so that their safety wouldn’t be compromised. Camping can be a great alternatif for those who are looking for a fun outdoor activity on New Year’s Eve, but still want to be in a place where they can control their environment. You can bring your own tent, cutleries, and toiletries for safety.

3. Movie or tv series marathon

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Who doesn’t love to binge on their favourite movies or tv shows, while waiting for the clock strikes 12 at midnight? This would be the perfect time for introverts out there who are looking for a fun activity to do on New Year’s Eve, but still want to be around the comfort of their house. Watching the classic romcom such as The Holiday, About a Boy, or perhaps something unsettling like Rosemary’s Baby will certainly won’t make your night dull. If you want to catch up on any latest mini-series, this also will be the right moment to start!

4. Online NYE party

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While endless Zoom meeting can be unpleasant, there is definitely nothing sour about throwing an online party. Last year, you might be able to attend the most lavish New Year’s Eve party in town. But, during the pandemic it is better to stay home or in a place where you wouldn’t be having a lot of interactions with bunch of strangers. That doesn’t mean you can’t have fun with your best friends who live miles away! Thanks to technology, we can easily keep in touch with each other’s live through social media, chatting app, even video call.

5. Drive around town

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Although this might sound a bit ridiculous, but you can kill the time until midnight by driving around town. There is something special about hometowns around a special day such as New Year’s Eve, that you probably don’t realize before. Of course, this doesn’t mean that you have to drive aimlessly until midnight. Try to find a spot where you can watch firework shows without getting out of the car. Don’t forget to shop at your favourite street food vendors, so that you won’t starve while waiting.