SAN DIEGO (KGTV) — With California's regional stay-at-home orders and cancelations of annual holiday events, families won't be jumping into the same festive season as years past. But there are still some pandemic-proof activities to enjoy this month.
This year, families are tasked more than ever with thinking outside the traditional holiday box to find some fun.
While the pandemic has strained those efforts, virtual experiences, drive-thru events, and charity can help keep the season bright:
Enjoy holiday light displays: The easiest way to enjoy the holidays is something many families do every year. Hop in the car and take a drive around your neighborhood to enjoy the light displays. Families can enjoy looking at the hard work by their neighbors to dress up some seasonal cheer, while staying safe and socially distanced in their vehicles. There are also some drive-in events that allow visitors to purchase tickets online and navigate through a setup event — without having contact with anyone from outside their household.
Check out ABC 10News' list of light displays in San Diego to see.
Virtual holiday plays and visits: Festive celebrations of the season are still spreading cheer, just online. The Old Globe Theater is bringing "How The Grinch Stole Christmas" to the radio this year, while the La Jolla Playhouse will bring A Christmas Carol online too. Chula Vista's The Moonlight is also hosting "A Miracle on 34th Street" across radios this year.
Those hoping to visit Santa before the big day can also talk to the big man online this month.
Donate to a cause: Part of celebrating this season is giving back to others and there are several ways to help. Feeding San Diego and the San Diego Food Bank are in need of donations and support as the agencies serve more residents than ever before. The Red Cross and San Diego Blood Bank are also in need of donors as well, and the Salvation Army may not be out in full force with red kettles, but it welcomes any support. ABC 10News has a quick list of ways to give back here, but there are several local charities worthy of anyone's help.
Annual toy drives are also an important cause to support this season to help families around the county celebrate the holidays. Play gift-giver and find a local drive to donate a gift.
Lace up your shoes for a holiday race: Every year, San Diego runners hit the pavement and run in the San Diego Holiday Half, San Diego Santa Run, and Jingle Bell Run to capture their next personal record or just stay in shape.
While the in-person gatherings for each race are canceled, runners can still log their participation virtually and enjoy the same race day swag they would receive at the traditional event.
Holiday movies and activities at home: We've all been spending a lot of time at home. But during the holidays, movies we've come to love beacon us to the living room to revisit our favorite stories. We've put together a list of holiday movies and when you can catch them this year.
Since many of us have become professional bakers and bread makers since the pandemic started, now's the perfect time to flex what you've learned. Holiday cookies and treats are a must this year and the perfect way to brighten the season. If cooking isn't your thing, crafts are a great way to keep kids busy and add decorations to your home.
