Coronavirus has canceled a plethora of activities, games, proms, graduations, and birthday plans. While it is necessary that we all do our best to self-isolate, stay home, and try not to contribute to the spread of this vicious virus, there’s no denying how much it sucks to have plans canceled. If you’re like me and have always loved having a spring birthday, having it effectively canceled is disappointing. Not being able to see friends, go out, or make the college birthday memories you dreamed of can be depressing. Here are some ways you can make the best out of a birthday in quarantine:
- Host a Zoom/Houseparty/FaceTime birthday party
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I’ve attended a few of these in the past few weeks and they’re actually a lot of fun. Being able to see all your friends, make jokes, and pretend you’re all together is a great way to fill the void of not physically being together. Adding drinks or games that you can do together can make it more exciting. It doesn’t replace getting to be there in person, but it does make you feel like your friends are still there to celebrate you, even from miles away.
- Get dinner from your favorite restaurant
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While most restaurants are only offering delivery or takeout, getting your favorite dish and dessert from a favorite restaurant can make up for the experience of going out to dinner. Maybe set up your home to emulate a real restaurant with candles and music and invite your family to get dressed up. This will separate your birthday dinner from any other dinner at home during quarantine.
- Plan a party for when quarantine is over
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I heard this suggestion recently and I knew it was something I wanted to do for myself. While I will be missing seeing my friends, going out, and celebrating, being able to plan an event for the future can get your mind off of the current situation. Think of who you’d invite, where you would go, what you might need to buy, and what events might take place. Even if it’s just for fun, this can be something you’re able to look forward to when life goes back to normal.
- Give yourself a spa day
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At-home spa days can be relaxing and will give you some time to yourself. Face masks, pedicures, and a hot bath all are great ways to pamper yourself when you can’t go out to a real spa.
- Do a drive-by parade
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I’ve seen a few of these on Instagram where people drive past their friend’s house on their birthday, honking their horns and singing. This is a good way to see people without breaking social distancing rules. It’s cute and will get you out of the house for a few minutes to smile and see how people still want to celebrate you.
- Get yourself something nice
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No one wants to be the person complaining about losing out on a birthday when there’s a lot of bad things happening in the world right now, but it is important to give yourself some space to recognize what you might be missing or be upset about. Online shopping for a new pair of shoes or jacket might make you feel a little better, even if you’re only stunting them around the house. Getting yourself a treat or present is well-deserved and totally okay to do.
I will be celebrating a birthday soon and while I wish I could be with my friends, I know how important it is that we’re all staying home. Celebrating in quarantine isn’t ideal but knowing that your people are still there for you and being able to make the best out of the situation is something to strive towards.