Last Updated on December 22, 2020 by
Christmas is upon us and amidst the pandemic, the festive season is going to look a little different this year. Families are encouraged to celebrate within their households in their local area only, to ensure the safety of loved ones and others you may come in contact with throughout this period.
1- Christmas Bubbles
It is possible to celebrate Christmas this year by forming Christmas Bubbles. However, with the new lockdown rules implemented as of midnight on Saturday 19th December, these bubbles are only acceptable in certain tiers.
- Tier 4 is prohibited to form bubbles or mix with other households
- Tier 3 can form a bubble of three households on Christmas Day only.
- The members of these bubbles can mix and enjoy in each other’s houses, a place of worship or in an outdoor public space or garden. Also, the bubble member’s list should be fixed as no swapping is allowed.
- If you have children returning from university, they are automatically considered as a part of your household.
- Other children who are not at university but are spread across the nation cannot form a bubble with their parents and must stick to their local areas.
2- Online celebrations
Online weddings, meetings and family reunions played a major part of 2020 with regards to both business and personal gatherings (hands up if you did one too many zoom quizzes?). Since there are restrictions on throwing a big party this year, zoom parties will most likely be the way forward – so be sure to have that WiFi working!
3- Communal gatherings
Currently, places of worship including churches will remain open even in the Tier 4 areas. This relaxation may however be reviewed for safety reasons, so it’s advised that, if you can, to attend church services online.
4- Online Christmas shopping
All major retail stores are likely to remain closed, so online shopping for gifts and essentials is probable. With this comes the possibility of popular items (Your Christmas Turkey) out of stock, so be sure to get online and buy as soon as possible with social distanced delivery.
Here’s to wishing you all a safe Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.