Celebrating Your Birthday During the Lockdown
Words Nothando Mpala
You may be short of ideas for what to do for your birthday during this global pandemic. With the lockdown being extended, there will be no opening of any restaurants or pubs anytime soon. Birthday’s as we know them have now changed dramatically. We have had to say goodbye to meeting up with friends face to face or planning exciting trips away. However, celebrating your birthday in the lockdown doesn’t have to be dull, there are so many amazing ways that you can enjoy your birthday in the comfort of your own home in a cost-effective way. Nothando Mpala, Freelance Events Coordinator shares her top 5 best lockdown birthday ideas with us.
1. Virtual Birthday Party
Virtual parties are becoming more and more trendy. Using apps such as Zoom, House Party and Skype allows you to have a large group of friends online at one time. The best way to maximise the party experience is to create a playlist of your favourite music in advance, make an effort to look cute, bring out your favourite snacks and drinks - then party the night away.
Shutterstock
Shutterstock
2. Online Games with Friends
Online gaming is not an unusual activity, however you can make it interesting by playing games that are more interactive such as poker, heads up, trivia and entering online escape rooms. I am sure they will all make you laugh at your heart’s content.
Shutterstock
3. Virtual Movies Night (Movie Marathons)
No matter if you are a Marvel fan or Harry Potter fan, you can enjoy watching your favourite movies online with friends or with those in your household. There is nothing more entertaining than laughing at everyones reactions and commentaries.
Shutterstock
Shutterstock
4. Picnic in the Garden or in Your Living Room
Depending on the weather, you can create a picnic with all your favourite foods in your garden whilst enjoying the sun on your birthday. Alternatively, if you don’t have a garden you can still create the picnic experience in the comfort of your living room or your bedroom. The important aspects to bear in mind is to have your favourite music playlist you know you’ll enjoy and to remember to collect all your pillows or cushions to put on the floor for extra comfort!
Shutterstock
5. Virtual Cooking or Mocktail Making with Friends
You do not have to make your birthday meal by yourself. You can share the load with your friends or family in your house or by using online platforms such as Zoom or Skype. Once you have finished cooking you can test your meals together. If you do not feel like cooking, why not make mocktails instead? This is a great way to have conversations whilst learning a new skill.
Shutterstock
Shutterstock
Nothando Mpala - Freelance Events Coordinator