Share a theme in advance of your virtual party. Make it something fun and accessible. Ideas include:
Send a digital invite that references the theme and helps to elevate the occasion
Choose a fun zoom background or decorate your space with dreidels and a menorah.
Shower, change out of your work zoom attire, and “get ready for the party” just like you would an in-person event. It will help you feel special and separate from your work day.
Have all of your guests introduce themselves and tell a short story. Ask everyone the same prompt. Ideas include:
Say the blessings for the Chanukah candles all together and then light your candles.
After lighting the candles it is traditional to sing some songs all together. Those of us that are now used to singing happy birthday over Zoom are highly aware of how the timing can be off. Instead of singing, share your screen with a fun Chanukah video and song. Examples can include:
Play a virtual game together or have a short activity. Ideas include:
About the Author: Julia Godshaw is originally from Denver, Colorado but has called Washington, DC home since 2014. She holds a Master’s in Public Policy and BA from the University of Denver. During the day, she is a Senior Analyst consulting to the Department of the Navy for WWC Global. In her spare time, Julia runs a book club, follows politics, bakes challah, hosts a virtual weekly shabbat candle lighting, takes Hebrew classes, and goes on long walks around DC. Julia participated in the ADL’s 2019-2020 Glass Leadership Institute program and was a Sixth and I Ambassador in the “before times”. Julia lives in Penn Quarter with her husband and backgammon partner, Kevin Wiatrak.
The views and opinions expressed in this blog and on this website are solely those of the original authors. These views and opinions do not necessarily represent those of the organization GatherDC, the GatherDC staff, the GatherDC board, and/or any/all contributors to this site.
