COVID-19 has altered our lives in many more ways than one. Like many others, I had plenty of winter-break travel plans that had to be canceled because of the pandemic, so I’ve come up with a few ways to spend my free time during our upcoming break.

1. Have a virtual dance party.

Dance parties, and parties in general, have become a thing of the past. However, nothing is stopping you from getting all your friends together on a Google Meet or Zoom and playing your favorite songs as loud as you can while you all dance and sing along. It can be everyone you know or just you and your family.

2. Virtual Paint- N-Sip

A Paint-N-Sip is when a group of people get together and take an art class while they talk and drink together. Using Zoom or Google Meet, you can gather your friends and some canvases. Paint, draw, color – whatever you want. Get some glasses and sparkling cider to Paint-N-Sip together.

3. Glamping on Stone Mountain.

Stone Mountain offers yurt rentals for families. A yurt is like a round cabin made of wood and canvas.  They offer outdoor grills, picnic tables, and even a metal fire pit. This is the perfect way for you and your family to go on a vacation while still avoiding contact with others. Hiking, roasting s’mores, and so much more are available on this nearby mountain escape.

4. Volunteer

Atlanta offers many safe and COVID-friendly volunteer opportunities. One of which is cleaning one of the “Play Me Again Pianos” placed around Atlanta. These pianos reflect Atlanta’s rich music scene and could use a cleaning every once in a while. Another option is volunteering at Piedmont Park. This is a nice way to get out of the house and help clean up a beautiful park. You can even mask-up, invite some friends and enjoy some fresh air together.