Moving into a new space is one of the most exciting phases of life, and celebrating with friends and family makes a new house feel like a home. Unfortunately, like many of our norms and traditions, the global COVID-19 pandemic has complicated the housewarming party process. Just because we can’t gather like we used to, though, that doesn’t mean our hands are tied. These socially-distanced housewarming party ideas can help you celebrate safely!
Host a virtual party
For many of us, video calls are second nature at this point. Gathering your family and friends online is a quick and efficient way to check in, chat and celebrate. Plus, in this day and age, housewarming registry services, invites and more are already online, so a virtual party could fit right in.
Plan to take the camera from room to room, giving participants a look at the space and highlighting any features you’re particularly excited about. Most platforms also allow you to record the call, so even those who can’t make the live event could tune in after the fact. Just don’t forget to pad the party time to address any potential technical difficulties.
Extend the housewarming party period
While certain states allow small, socially-distanced gatherings, some homeowners may not feel comfortable bringing multiple households together (Centers For Disease Control and Prevention, 2021). When one party isn’t safe or possible, consider hosting small groups of close friends and family over an extended period of time. This way, you’ll never have more than a few people over at any one time, but you’ll still get to celebrate with those closest to you.
You could schedule short tours of your space for members of each household, spanning a week or two. Provide masks and hand sanitizer, utilize disposable plates and cups, leave doors and windows ajar and, depending on your comfort level, you could even require a negative COVID-19 test prior to entry. Then, plan to sanitize the home thoroughly after each group.
Host an outdoor housewarming party
Depending on your climate and home setup, you could take the celebration outside. Fresh air and wide open spaces make social distancing much easier, and won’t impede the party. It could also give you a chance to show off your brand new yard or patio!
Set up distanced stations for food, beverages and lounging, allowing guests to spread out and enjoy the festivities. You can also set up yard games or a fire pit to enhance the experience. Depending on your comfort level, offer small tours of the home or present a video tour. Remind attendees to follow all COVID-19 precautions (Centers For Disease Control and Prevention, 2021) and plan to have plenty of masks, hand sanitizer and disposable dishware on hand for this option as well.
Showcase your new neighborhood instead
Some homeowners may be limited on space, whether indoor or outdoor. If this sounds like you, why not expand the venue? Your new neighborhood may have convenient, centrally-located spaces available for rent that could seriously simplify social distancing efforts.
Host friends and family at an outdoor park, garden or other public space. You can enjoy the perks your new community provides, while spending time with those closest to you. Then, take small groups on walks through the neighborhood. Guests are sure to fall in love with your new community in no time.
Housewarming is an important stage of the homebuying process. Sharing your space with family and friends marks the start of your new life as a homeowner. While we may not be able to gather quite like we used to, that doesn’t mean housewarming festivities are totally off the table. With one of these socially-distanced party ideas, you can celebrate even in the era of COVID-19!
Published on March 8, 2021
