Couples often see the holiday season as a time to come together and celebrate their love. But for long-distance couples, this time of year can be especially challenging without your partner by your side.
While you may be miles apart, it doesn’t mean you can’t still create special moments and memories together. There are plenty of fun and creative long-distance dates that can help you feel connected while joyously celebrating the holiday season with your partner. Here are seven virtual date ideas that will make the distance feel less daunting this holiday season.
1. Movie Marathon
Movie nights are classic, and they can be just as enjoyable as long-distance relationship date ideas. Choose a classic holiday movie such as “Home Alone” or tune into one of the latest Hallmark Christmas movies. Thanks to modern technology, you can use streaming services or video chat apps to sync up your viewing experience, whether you choose a movie or TV show.
Grab some snacks, get cozy, and watch the movie marathon from the comfort of your own homes. And don’t forget to have a post-movie discussion to share your thoughts and feelings about the film. It’s a simple but effective way to bond and create shared memories.
2. Online Baking Class
With an online baking class, you and your partner can enjoy the sweet satisfaction of creating delicious treats together, even if you’re miles apart. While you could find a virtual cooking class to attend, consider keeping it intimate by cooking just the two of you.
Pick the same treat to bake or choose a dish for the other person to whip up. Not only will have a great time learning new baking skills, but you’ll start a tradition you can recreate in person later.
3. Virtual Gift Unwrapping
One of the most exciting parts of the holiday season is unwrapping presents. Physical separation keeps you away from your partner, but it doesn’t mean you can’t experience that real-time joy.
Set up a virtual gift exchange where you both choose and send each other presents. On a designated date, video chat and take turns opening your gifts, like having a mini-Christmas morning together. Seeing the surprise and excitement on your partner’s face as they open their present adds a special touch to the experience.
4. Decorating Challenge
Looking for a fun and festive way to get creative with your long-distance partner this holiday season? Try a decorating challenge! Set a theme, whether it’s Christmas trees, gingerbread houses, or even ugly sweaters, and then get to work decorating.
Share your progress and ideas through video chat or pictures. It’s a great opportunity to show off your artistic skills and have some friendly competition. And the best part? You’ll have a beautifully decorated creation to enjoy throughout the holiday season. So grab your glitter, ribbons, and ornaments, and let the challenge begin.
5. Countdown to Christmas Calendar
Create a special countdown to Christmas calendar with your partner to make the holiday season even more exciting. Fill the calendar with fun activities, virtual surprises, or even daily messages to keep the excitement alive.
On the days leading up to Christmas, you and your partner can open a new door, virtual envelope, or reveal a surprise together. It’s a great way to feel connected and create shared experiences, even when you can’t be together in person.
6. Virtual Winter Wonderland Tour
Immerse yourself in the magical world of winter wonderlands with a virtual tour. While you may not be able to physically visit these enchanting places together, you can still experience the beauty and charm of winter from the comfort of your own homes.
Take a virtual stroll through snow-covered streets, marvel at breathtaking ice sculptures, and soak in the festive atmosphere. You can find virtual tours of famous winter destinations like Lapland, the Swiss Alps, or even the Northern Lights. It may even give you ideas for where you’d like to travel together someday.
7. New Year’s Eve Countdown
New Year’s Eve is a time to say goodbye to the old and welcome in the new. And even if you and your partner can’t be together to celebrate, you can still have a memorable countdown. Plan a virtual New Year’s Eve celebration complete with a video call, festive decorations, and champagne (or sparkling grape juice) to toast at midnight in your respective time zones.
Share your resolutions, reflect on the past year, and look forward to the future together. Watch the ball drop on TV or stream a virtual countdown. It may not be the same as being physically together, but it’s a meaningful way to ring in the new year.
It’s natural to feel a little heartbroken about not being with your partner during the holiday season. But with these fun, festive long-distance date nights, you can feel connected no matter how far apart you are.
This article was written exclusively for Love What Matters by Kate Fann. Have a story of love, kindness, or healing to share? Visit our submissions portal to submit today.
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