In honor of Halloween and the holidays being right around the corner, I want to acknowledge how challenging this time can be for couples in long distance relationships. While many long distance couples are able to spend some time together during the holidays, others have to remain apart due to various circumstances, such as when one partner is in the military.
The holiday season is one of the most exciting and joyful times of the year, spent with loved ones. so physical distance can feel even more pronounced during this time. However, creativity and intentional planning can help couples bridge the miles and create lasting memories, even if they can’t be together physically. Here are some ideas to help you and your partner stay close this holiday season.
Halloween: Celebrate the Spooky Season Together
- Watch Spooky Movies: Choose a horror film or classic Halloween movie, and watch it at the same time while you’re on the phone. Make popcorn or grab some candy to make this virtual date even more special!
- Matching Costumes: Pick a couple’s costume idea and dress up. Even if you’re apart, you can honor your relationship by coordinating matching themes when you each celebrate with friends or family.
- Send Each Other a Boo Basket: Surprise your partner by sending a small fall-themed package filled with items such as candy, a handwritten note, or a stuffed animal (There are fun Halloween Squishmallows on Amazon!).
Thanksgiving: Sharing Gratitude and Traditions
- Have a Virtual Thanksgiving Meal: Cook the same recipe or order each other meals and set a time to eat together virtually. You can take this time to savor the moment and tell each other what you’re grateful for.
- Start a Gratitude Jar Tradition: Write down something you’re thankful for each day in the month of November. On Thanksgiving, read them out loud to each other on the phone. This is a meaningful way to be vulnerable and feel close.
- Send a Care Package: Similar to a Boo Basket, send your partner a thoughtful package full of homemade cookies, a handmade gift, or a special trinket. If a package doesn’t work for you, a love letter is just as meaningful.
Christmas: Merry From Miles Apart
- Open Gifts Together Virtually: Mail your gifts to each other in advance, and then set a time on or around Christmas to open them together on Facetime. This special moment will allow you to witness each other’s reactions.
- Celebrate the 12 Days of Christmas: Leading up to Christmas, write a note to your partner and read them each night on the phone. Whether they are funny or romantic this is a sure way to brighten their day.
- Go on a Festive Virtual Date: Whether it be watching a nostalgic Christmas movie, baking the same treat, or decorating your tree on the phone together, taking the time to do a festive Christmas date is a great way to celebrate the holidays together.
New Year’s Eve: Ringing in the New Year as a Couple
- Have a Virtual Countdown: Just because you’re apart doesn’t mean you can’t celebrate the New Year together. Call as the countdown begins, and toast to the New Year. Do this twice if you and your partner are in different time zones!
- Make a Couple’s Vision Board: Set some time aside to talk about your goals and dreams for the upcoming year, both as individuals and as a couple. Get creative by creating a digital vision board together.
- Write Your New Year’s Resolutions Together: A similar meaningful way to connect is by sharing your resolutions with each other. Set some shared goals, like a certain number of visits for the upcoming year, or a new hobby you want to try together. This is a great way to find things to look forward to in the new year.
Wrapping it Up!
Navigating the holidays while in a long distance relationship isn’t always easy, but it can be an opportunity to grow closer, even if you aren’t physically together. By being intentional with your effort and interactions, you can make the holiday season very special and memorable.
Read our other blogs with long distance tips!
