When people think of Christmas,  they might envision large family gatherings, caroling around the fireplace, and making cookies  to share with neighbors. This year, all of that had to change. In the midst of COVID-19, many changes to the season are occurring; however, there are still numerous ways to enjoy this season safely. 

“Christmas will be different this year since I cannot travel to see my family, but my family and I are going to make the best of it,” McKale McMullen, junior, said. 

One cozy way to enjoy the holidays with family is by kicking off the season with pajamas, holiday movies, and warming up by the fire. For those looking to get out of the house, another option is grabbing a hot chocolate from Starbucks and driving around town to look at Christmas lights.

“My boyfriend and I will be making gingerbread houses in our Christmas jammies, and [we will] then watch Christmas movies,” Amanda Buchheit, senior, said.

In addition, there are many events across Georgia to help get into the Christmas spirit.

A few nearby are:

• Stone Mountain Christmas
• Holiday in the Park At Six Flags
• Callaway Gardens Fantasy in Lights 
• Garden Lights at the Atlanta Botanical Gardens
• Rock City’s Enchanted Garden of Lights
• Santa Express in Blue Ridge
• Holiday Lights at Veteran’s Park

All of these locations require visitors to wear masks and social distance from other groups to ensure safety during the holiday season.

“I went to Veterans Park with my family to do the drive through Christmas lights. It was fun to see all the lights and spend time with my family,” Caroline Kapcsos, senior, said.

COVID-19 cannot stop the joy of celebrating holidays this December. There is something for  everyone to get into the spirit of Christmas, even in the face of unprecedented circumstances.