Georgia is no longer under a shelter-in-place order, and cities and counties are prohibited from shuttering businesses or ordering citizens to stay home. However, Gov. Kemp’s executive orders regarding COVID-19 make clear that all businesses must practice social distancing and other measures to keep patrons safe. The Department of Public Health continues to advise against gatherings of 10 or more people.
This means that to safely enjoy Independence Day in Athens, seniors need to avoid large gatherings. Don’t let this deter your Fourth of July spirit, though. There are still plenty of senior-friendly activities for celebrating the holiday.
Home Fireworks Displays
Fireworks are legal for personal use in Georgia, and Athens has plenty of great dealers. Try planning a socially distanced firecracker display with your neighbors. Agree to set off fireworks around the same time, and have neighbors watch from their cars or back decks. Just make sure to carefully follow the directions that come with each sparkler or firework and follow these home fireworks safety tips.
Fireworks from a Distance
You don’t have to be directly under the display to enjoy fireworks. Indeed, some people find that a little distance mutes the noise and adds to their enjoyment. Athens’ annual Star-Spangled Classic may still happen this year, though organizers continue to debate this. If it does, try parking nearby and enjoying the lights from a distance.
Independence Day Outdoor Fun
Preserve the spirit of Independence Day festivities by spending some time in the great outdoors. Just make sure you avoid crowds and go only with people who have continued to practice social distancing. Take the grandkids to the World of Wonder Park, stroll the trails of Walker Park, or plan a bike ride and picnic at Bishop Park.
Virtual Gatherings
If you can’t see your family right now or are worried about spreading the virus, you don’t have to spend the holiday in isolation. Try planning a virtual Zoom gathering with your loved ones. Video chatting can be a little awkward at first, so devise an agenda. Make a list of things to ask one another, plan to play a game, or even discuss a book you all read together. These virtual gatherings can take practice, so consider planning a pre-Independence Day celebration to get the hang of things.
Family Storytelling
Whether you’re gathering virtually or co-quarantining with family or in a senior living community, holidays are a great time to share memories and come together as a family. Try one of these activities:
- Ask each person to contribute a beloved recipe and then compile a family recipe book.
- Contribute a favorite Fourth of July memory to a shared memory book.
- Read historical stories to the kids in the family.
- Contribute photos to a family photo album.
- Construct a family oral history. Interview each family member about their lives and experiences.
Camping Indoors
You don’t have to fight Georgia’s notorious mosquitos to get a taste of camping. Plan an indoor camping session instead. Pitch a tent, watch a movie with your sweetie or the grandkids, and cook s’mores indoors.
The right senior living community is a font of senior-friendly activities year-round. If you want an exciting Independence Day even when everyone is quarantining, now is a great time to consider a vibrant community where you can make new friends, try new activities, and dine in luxury without leaving home.
The Arbor Company has helped seniors shape their retirement dreams for more than 30 years. We’d love to talk to you about your next chapter. Contact us to learn more!
