Celebrating Safely in 2021

As COVID-19 cases rise and flu season hits its peak, safety concerns can dampen the excitement of holiday celebrations. Prepare for festivities by taking precautions ahead of time to ensure everyone’s health and spend more time enjoying favorite activities.

• Evaluate your options. With the Omicron variant of COVID emerging, it's important to consider risk levels of potential holiday plans. Large, in-person gatherings carry a higher chance of viral disease transmission, while hosting virtual get togethers offers the lowest level of risk. Depending on who is involved, where and how you plan on celebrating, choose the method of celebrating that works best for you and your loved ones.

• Follow CDC Guidelines. Once you decide your holiday plans, visit the CDC's website for best practices on celebrating safely during the pandemic.

• Find ways to reduce risks. As with any viral disease, practicing good hygiene, avoiding crowded spaces and staying home if you feel sick will help reduce chances of transmission. For example, remember to wash your hands frequently, try shopping online rather than in person and think about getting a COVID test if you feel under the weather.

• Consider waiting until next year. It might feel frustrating to wait, but it is okay if you feel that gathering this year poses risks. Try celebrating virtually or spending this time relaxing at home.

For more information on navigating the unique challenges of the pandemic, visit the Coronavirus Toolkit.