As the holidays are upon us, more people are anxious about what this season will bring. But not to worry, there are still many ways to have an enjoyable holiday, regardless of the 2020 craziness.

 If you worry about not being able to see your family, there is the option of quarantining beforehand or getting a Covid-19 test to determine if you are negative before heading out to see friends or family.  If you are unfortunate and do not have the opportunity to see your family and friends, there are other ways to keep the spirit alive. 

There are things as simple as watching holiday movies which always lighten the mood, bringing joy to those who watch.  Some popular favorites with star-studded casts include “Home Alone”, “Eight Crazy Nights”, “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation”, and “Bad Santa”. These movies will leave you belly laughing and in a better spirit. Add some popcorn and maybe hot cocoa for the full Christmas experience.

Baking cookies and making gingerbread houses are also fun activities, especially for those with younger children. Santa does enjoy chocolate chip and oatmeal raisin cookies!  They can be left out on Christmas Eve along with some carrots for the reindeer.  

Many ice skating rinks are open in New Jersey, along with some movie theaters and indoor dining, providing something for everyone. Skylands Ice World and Palisades Center Ice Rink are both currently opened for appointment based skates, which can be purchased and booked online. AMC 16 in Rockaway and Cinemark next to Willowbrook Mall are also open; tickets can be bought online. Many restaurants local to West Milford are open for indoor dining, such as The Country Cottage, The Outback, and Frank’s. 

There are also many things you can do to help others during the holiday season. Helping with a food pantry at your local church, clothing and/or toy drives, and even volunteering in a soup kitchen are all great ways to help those in need. As long as it is done safely, with social distancing and mask wearing, there should be no problems, and in giving to others, people receive the holiday spirit within themselves.  Spreading kindness and good cheer are what this season is all about. 

Another great thing to do is homemade baking and cooking for meal trains, which are donations of a meal for a family in need, or for families who may not be able to afford the meals your family is able to enjoy. Anything that you can do is appreciated, and it always feels great to give back to your community. 

The year is almost over, there is hope that 2021 will be a better year, but in the meantime, try to enjoy the holidays the best you can.