Over the last year or so we’ve all adapted to sitting or standing around firepits, parked cars, garden sheds, and front doors. How can we add a little sparkle to our outdoor get-togethers? Â Which of these festive ideas have you tried?
– It’s not quite up my street but I could see this working on my street so I could pretend to like it… Christmas jumper dog walking! Get one for your dog and wear yours!Â
– Next time the sun comes out, message the neighbours to see if anyone is free for a cup of tea or a hot chocolate on the drive. Â It might be nice to arrange to meet on Christmas Eve or New Year’s Eve. Â We set up a WhatsApp group in lockdown and it feels less intrusive sending a quick message on there than knocking every time. Â Bring out a couple of games or a festive quiz.
-You could even have a mini carol singing session! Â My dad gets the whole street out for carol singing – he is probably busy practising his accordion right now! (You could share YouTube links for the carols beforehand).
–Â Choose a date when everyone in the street switches their outside lights on and gathers outside, people bringing their own drinks out with them. An idea to bank for next year.
– Maybe you have been involved in a live Nativity – costumed actors and real animals bring the story to life. Â There might be a few people in your local church who would be interested in a project like this so you could start planning for 2022! Â Suggestions and guidance can be found if you search online.
– Get involved in community events and productions in the town centre. Â Michael Sheen is in the news today for becoming a ‘not-for-profit’ actor. By selling two houses, he was able to rescue the Homeless World Cup when the funding fell through. Â It’s such an uplifting story – click this link to read more.
 ‘Sheen revealed the “turning point” followed a 72 hour production of The Passion through the streets of his hometown Port Talbot in 2011.  “I got to know people and organisations within my hometown that I didn’t know existed,” he said.’ Â
– It’s not quite up my street but I could see this working on my street so I could pretend to like it… Christmas jumper dog walking! Get one for your dog and wear yours! 
– Next time the sun comes out, message the neighbours to see if anyone is free for a cup of tea or a hot chocolate on the drive. Â It might be nice to arrange to meet on Christmas Eve or New Year’s Eve. Â We set up a WhatsApp group in lockdown and it feels less intrusive sending a quick message on there than knocking every time. Â Bring out a couple of games or a festive quiz.
Whether we have time, money, skills, or resources to offer, the potential to impact others and help our community is endless. Â As always, we’d love to hear about your projects and events, especially if there are any Hollywood actors involved with houses to spare!
Happy outdoor Christmas! x