How to Host Your Own Mini Candlelight, Eggnog, & Holiday Ball
The first weekend of December at Chatham is traditionally marked by twinkly lights, snazzy garb, and a cold but cozy night of holiday cheer. Candlelight, Eggnog, and Holiday Ball signify the end of the first semester and the return to campus for many eager alumni. Like so many things this year, our annual holiday celebration is not safe in the light of the surging COVID-19 pandemic. And though it’s valid to mourn what might’ve been, we can still make the most of this season with the help of some creativity and holiday spirit. Read on to check out our tips for hosting your very own Candlelight, Eggnog, & Holiday Ball and enjoy these photos from mask-free holidays past—
Mingle with the music
Though you may not be able to hear the Chatham Choir in the Chapel this year, you can still join them for A Layering of Voices, a virtual concert on Friday, December 4 at 8 pm. Check it out here. If that ignites a craving for holiday music, there are bountiful ways to enjoy the music of the season. Explore Spotify’s wide range of holiday playlists, featuring Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and Christmas Classics. And if you’ve already blared your favorite holiday tunes in excess, arrange some Zoom karaoke with you and your pals—check out this holiday karaoke playlist.
Host a socially distant cookie exchange
Arrange a socially distant cookie exchange to ensure you get all the treats your heart desires. In a traditional cookie exchange, each participant makes a few dozen cookies to share with the rest of the group. That way, everyone gets to take home a large variety of delights. An in-person cookie exchange might not be possible this year but there are still ways to trade cookies while apart. Considering hosting an extra small exchange and dropping off treats at a few nearby friends’ houses or consider meeting outside at a local park.
Experiment with your bartending & barista skills
You may not be able to visit the annual Eggnog bar but you can still try your hand at making holiday cocktails and mocktails to enjoy in the pleasure of your own home. Check out this list of the 26 Best Christmas Cocktails from Town & Country Magazine, featuring Upgraded Eggnog, a Cran-Spiced Martini, Icelandic Hot Chocolate, and plenty more. And for the under 21 crowd, if you have a favorite holiday latte, consider creating it at home; here is a list of Starbucks Holiday Drink Recipes from The Dallas Socials to get inspired.
Find the lights
If you’re missing rooms filled with dazzling lights and garlands aplenty, might we suggest a good old-fashioned Christmas light drive? Grab some hot cocoa, the aux cord, and your house mates and head out for a night time drive to find the best Christmas light displays near you. Quarantine has brought out people’s nesting creativity so you’re sure to see some extra special sites this year.
Host a virtual dance party
While you may not be able to create the feeling of a glittery dance floor, you can don your best attire, throw on some glitter and a splash of fragrance, turn on some twinkle lights, and get down on your own. Be your own DJ and if you want company, Zoom in some pals. The setting may be different, but the endorphins will arrive just the same.
Send out some holiday greetings
What’s that Elf quote? The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear. You may not be able to gather for a gift exchange but you can still take some time to remind those you love how much they mean to you. Get creative—take some pretty Polaroids and mail them to a few friends you’re really missing; write a letter to a family member you won’t get to see in 2020; or try your hand at making an ornament for someone who has managed to brighten this dark year.
Take a trip down memory lane
Sometimes a little dose of nostalgia can fill our hearts with warmth; if you just feel like looking at some photos of Candlelights past, check out our gallery of photos from 2019. And keep your fingers crossed for safe holiday fun in 2021.
We know this year has been hard but the holiday season can offers moments of hope, respite, and joy. We encourage you to stay safe and practice self care.
