How To Celebrate With Your Family Safely This Christmas

Last Christmas, the country was forced to stay at home and avoid celebrating with their nearest and dearest. This year, we are free to attend parties and mix households when it comes to Christmas celebrations, and many families are planning to get together and make up for lost time. Although restrictions might not be as stringent this Christmas, COVID is still very much with us and care still needs to be taken in order to keep your loved ones safe. Whether you are spending Christmas with us in Windsor, or staying at home with your family, here are a few ways you can celebrate safely.

Take Regular Lateral Flow Tests

Everyone is recommended to take lateral flow tests on a regular basis, to help in the fight against COVID. Even if you don’t have any symptoms, take a test twice a week, as some people can be asymptomatic. If you are attending any large events or gatherings, take a test before arriving, just in case. If you do develop any symptoms, make sure you don’t meet up with any of your friends and family, and stay at home until you have done a PCR test. Regular testing only takes a few minutes and can make a huge difference in keeping your loved ones safe. You can order free lateral flow tests for regular testing from the NHS, but be aware that these can’t be used for travel requirements.

Hold A Virtual Secret Santa

If you and your friends or family have an annual secret Santa tradition, consider hosting it online this year instead of getting together. This is also great for getting everyone involved even if you live afar. There are apps and websites now which can sort your secret Santa for you, and even allow you to upload a secret wish list to give everyone some ideas. Send your secret Santa presents through the post, which will make guessing who had who even more challenging!

Christmas Shop Online

Instead of heading to the shops and facing the crowds, try and do as much of your Christmas shopping online this year. Most online retailers offer fast deliveries and many allow you to have products delivered in inconspicuous packaging so you don’t have to spoil the surprise. If you do want a day out at the shops, make sure to wear a mask and sanitise your hands often. Outdoor Christmas markets are often a safer choice than bustling indoor centres and you can usually find some unique, local gifts for your loved ones.

Choose To Go Out And Party On New Year’s

When it comes to New Year’s Eve, many people choose to host a fun-filled house party with their nearest and dearest. While filling your home with your loved ones and enjoying some drinks on December 31^st is a fun idea, it isn’t the safest option around. Treating yourselves to a night out and a delicious dinner not only saves you the trouble of hosting, but can keep everyone safe. Venues and restaurants are geared up to keep all attendees safe, with enhanced ventilation, social distancing, and mask requirements in some areas.

At Sir Christopher Wren Hotel, we are hosting New Year’s Eve 2021 in The Brasserie and the Princess Suite. You can enjoy a scrumptious 5 course meal followed by evening entertainment and music from our resident DJ.