How to host virtual celebrations

The 2020 holiday season fig­ures to be vastly different than seasons past. The novel coro­navirus COVID-19 has trans­formed daily life in many ways. The public has become accus­tomed to wearing masks while shopping, limiting the number of people in public venues and keeping their distance from friends and loved ones. Many events have been reimagined as virtual celebrations because of social distancing protocols. For those with large families or people with inherent risk fac­tors that make them more sus­ceptible to illness, sharing the holidays over video conferenc­ing apps may be the safest way to go in 2020.

The following tips can help holiday hosts make the most of a virtual holiday experience.

Pick a bright, festive spot

Set up your tablet, smart­phone or computer in a bright area with a festive backdrop. You’ll want others who join the virtual hangout to be able to see you clearly. A Christmas tree or a decorated fireplace in the background can set the scene.

Choose the right conferenc­ing app

Certain programs may work better than others depending on your needs. For example, if everyone has the same operat­ing system platform (iOS or Android), you may be able to use an app inherent to that system, which won’t require a separate download or login.

Apps also may be chosen de­pending on how many people can be invited in, as some set limits. Do your homework and conduct a test run prior to the holidays.

Keep props nearby

If the goal is to open gifts vir­tually, be sure to have everyone gathered and gifts nearby so no one is scrambling in and out of view.

Position the camera at eye level

Try to set up the camera so you’re not looking up or down. Practice looking straight into the camera instead of at your­self in the minimized window or even others on the screen. This way you’ll appear engaged.

Use mute when not speaking

Muting yourself (and encour­aging others to do the same) when you are not speaking will limit the amount of background noise. As the host, serve as the moderator and encourage ev­eryone to speak one at a time. Choose a visual cue to signal when someone has the floor to speak, such as raising a hand or even showing a festive picture.

Tune into virtual worship

While some places of worship have reopened to some capac­ity, others may still be offering hybrid services. If your place of worship offers services via YouTube or another video plat­form, gather around and watch together and participate just as if you were there in person. Better yet, share the link with other family and friends so they can tune in as well.

Share dinner ‘together’

Set up your camera source so it captures the holiday table. All parties gathering virtually can then sit down to the holiday meal as one and enjoy one of the season’s more endearing tradi­tions.

Virtual celebrations may con­tinue through the holiday sea­son. Adapting with some video conferencing tips can ensure everyone enjoys the festivities.