The Victoria Day long weekend has typically signalled the arrival of outdoor fun in BC. Residents flock to local beaches, parks, and campgrounds to enjoy the bounty of our backyard. Whether you were hoping to host your annual community BBQ, pack up the car and head to the mountains, or soak up the sun at Spanish Banks, things are going to be different this year.
While social distancing measures are loosening just ahead of the May long weekend, they aren’t going away entirely. That means it’s still our responsibility to do our part for the foreseeable future. But you don’t have to miss out on all the long weekend fun!
Here are three ways to stay connected despite COVID-19 this May long weekend.
Spread Your Circle
Thanks to our collective efforts, BC has flattened the curve of COVID-19. Provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry recently announced that we can start to slowly “spread our circles” and gather in groups up to six people.
The chance to “double the bubble” is an opportunity most of us have long-awaited. While we should keep risks in mind and remain aware and respectful of others, this May long weekend is the perfect opportunity to connect with and support loved ones who have been particularly affected by the social or mental health effects of coronavirus. Just be sure to maintain social distancing protocols and enjoy the sunshine!
Host A Virtual Backyard BBQ
Most of us have become pretty accustomed to video-chatting with friends and family over the last several weeks. This May long weekend, take it to the next level by hosting a summer-themed virtual dinner party!
Start by creating a Facebook event and invite your loved ones. The event page should include all the details your guests will need to know. These may include a menu, date, time, dress code, and details on how to attend via your favourite video chat app.
When you list the menu, remember to include that everyone gets to make their versions using the ingredients they like and have on-hand. If hosting a BBQ-themed meal, we suggest burgers or hot dogs, corn on the cob, potato salad, chocolate cake, and of course, cold drinks. Or if BBQ isn’t your thing, how about a Tex-Mex taco party? Of course, if you’re feeling fancy and want to break out the cocktail dress, a champagne and tapas “appy” hour could be just the thing to connect over and enjoy.
Whichever cuisine you choose, you get to enjoy the long weekend over good food with the people you love.
Spread The Love
Most of us have felt lonely, anxious, or uncertain in the past few weeks. If this sounds like you, the good news is that you aren’t alone: we’re living a shared experience. So why not make someone else—and yourself—feel more connected? Here are three ways to do just that:
- Grab a handful of chalk and decorate the sidewalk outside your home. Reminding neighbours that we’re all in this together and spreading a little joy will make others smile. Bonus: you’ll get to feel good and enjoy the sunshine at the same time.
- Share an out-of-the-blue compliment (or three) on social media. Whether you choose to post to Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter tag the person you’re complimenting and then ask others in the community to do the same. Paying it forward is one of the best ways to share the love: you never know when a thoughtful comment might make someone’s day.
- Support your favourite local restaurant by ordering delivery to a friend’s house. We may not yet be able to eat at a restaurant together, but a useful gift like a meal could be a delicious way to let someone know you care and are thinking of them. Plus, you get to help a local business. Win-win!
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