‍Being apart during the holidays is tough. The season is all about togetherness, and when you’re in a long-distance relationship, it can be hard to feel that warmth and connection. But distance doesn’t have to mean feeling distant. With a bit of creativity and thoughtfulness, you can bridge the gap and make the holiday season feel special and full of love.

This guide is packed with 25 unique ideas to help you and your partner stay close and celebrate the magic of the holidays, even if you’re miles apart.

1. Host a Virtual Christmas Movie Night

Set up a movie night that lets you feel like you're in the same room, even if you're miles apart. Choose a holiday classic or a feel-good film and synchronize the playback using streaming apps like Netflix Party or Teleparty. Here are some tips to make it even more special:

• Pre-game it: Send each other holiday-themed snacks like popcorn, candy canes, or hot cocoa mix so you can enjoy the same treats while watching.
• Dress the part: Wear your favorite holiday pajamas or ugly Christmas sweaters to get into the spirit.
• Chat it up: Use your phone or an app like Zoom to talk during the movie, pause to discuss funny scenes, or message each other reactions in real-time.
• Movie night bonus: After the movie, spend a few minutes talking about your favorite parts or sharing why you picked that particular film.

2. Create a Virtual Advent Calendar

Keep the festive spirit alive by making a virtual advent calendar full of surprises. It can be as simple as a daily video call or as elaborate as a shared folder with content for each day. Here’s how to make it extra fun:

• Daily themes: Dedicate each day to a different theme, like "memory Monday" (sharing a favorite holiday memory), "treat Tuesday" (sending a small gift), or "thoughtful Thursday" (a heartfelt note).
• Handmade touch: Record a voice memo or create a digital postcard that you send each morning. This can include a Christmas riddle or a small challenge to do during the day.
• Countdown apps: Use apps like Countdown Star or the "Advent Calendar" app to set up a shared experience with fun digital elements.
• Surprise gifts: Each day could include a small e-gift card or a digital coupon for a video call or shared activity.

3. Attend a Virtual Christmas Service or Concert

Sharing a spiritual or festive experience can deepen your connection. Join a livestreamed holiday service or Christmas concert together, creating a serene moment to share.

• Set the mood: Light a candle, play soft holiday music, or set up a cozy blanket fort to make it feel extra special.
• Dress up: Wear something festive or comfortable to make the event feel more significant.
• Post-event reflection: Schedule a time after the concert or service to call or message about your favorite songs, moments, or feelings.
• Interactive participation: If it’s a service with singing, sing along together or share a recording of your favorite hymn or carol.

4. Cook or Bake Together Over Video Call

Cooking or baking with your partner, even virtually, creates shared memories that last. Choose recipes that are easy to make while video chatting and ensure both of you have the ingredients.

• Recipe prep: Decide on a recipe and make sure you both have the ingredients ready ahead of time. It could be something like homemade Christmas cookies, gingerbread houses, or a warm holiday drink.
• Role-playing: Take turns doing specific tasks like decorating cookies or mixing ingredients and show them off on camera for a little friendly competition.
• Pro tips: Use apps that allow you to screen share so you can follow along with each other’s steps or use a shared digital shopping list app to keep track of what you both need.
• Mini challenges: Try creating a Christmas-themed dish or bake-off to see who makes the better cookie or cake.
• Send a sample: If possible, ship a batch of what you made to each other for a surprise taste test.

5. Have a Virtual Christmas Countdown

Build excitement and anticipation for Christmas Day with a personalized virtual countdown. Using apps and shared tools, you can keep the countdown interactive and exciting.

• App options: Use apps like Countdown Star, Day Count, or even a shared Google Calendar to set up your countdown. Personalize it with festive icons and reminders.
• Daily gifts: Schedule small digital gifts or notes for each day, like a motivational quote, a memory, or a simple “I love you.”
• Countdown challenge: Add a daily mini-challenge, such as “send me your favorite holiday meme” or “tell me a holiday wish.”
• Surprise messages: Use voice notes or pre-recorded video messages to share on each countdown day.
• End-of-countdown idea: On Christmas Eve, do a countdown video call where you each open a small gift, share your Christmas wishes, or play a holiday game.

6. Share a Virtual Christmas Playlist

Create a playlist of songs that hold special meaning to both of you or songs that remind you of past holidays. Music is a powerful way to evoke memories and emotions, so pick songs that have a special place in your hearts.

• Playlist app: Use music streaming services like Spotify, Apple Music, or YouTube to create a shared playlist.
• Song suggestions: Include a mix of holiday classics, nostalgic tracks, and new songs that capture your current feelings.
• Daily listening: Schedule time to listen to the playlist together, either while video chatting or on your own, then text or call to talk about your favorite songs or memories they bring back.
• Collaborative additions: Let each partner add a few surprise songs to keep the playlist fresh and exciting.
• Music-themed gifts: Pair your playlist with a gift like a set of wireless earbuds or a custom playlist-themed mug.

7. Exchange Digital Advent Gifts

Bring the fun of advent calendars to life with personalized digital gifts for each day leading up to Christmas. These can be small, thoughtful tokens that show how well you know each other.

• E-gift cards: Send daily e-gift cards for things like coffee, movie rentals, or a favorite online store.
• Digital surprises: Create a playlist, send a short video message, or share a photo from a memory you both love.
• Daily notes: Write a quick note each day expressing why you love them or sharing a memory from your relationship.
• Mystery gifts: Send them an interactive or hidden gift, like a digital scavenger hunt with clues that reveal a surprise at the end.
• Holiday coupons: Design digital coupons that they can redeem for things like “a 15-minute video chat” or “an exclusive date night when we meet.”

8. Plan a Surprise Video Call Date

Spontaneous video calls can feel like an exciting gift in and of themselves. Surprise your partner with a date call to shake up the monotony of the holiday season.

• Set the scene: Make sure the setting is special. Light candles or set up a Christmas tree in the background to create a warm, festive ambiance.
• Themed date ideas: Plan themed video call dates, like “Christmas movie trivia night,” or a “Christmas memory share session,” where you talk about your best holiday memories.
• Interactive activities: Cook the same holiday dish or make holiday crafts together over video.
• Unique surprises: Schedule a surprise “pop-in” call when you know they’re not expecting it, just to say hello and spread some cheer.
• Countdown call: Schedule a special call on Christmas Eve or Christmas morning to celebrate together.

9. Share a Virtual Christmas Gift Exchange

Bring the excitement of gift-giving into your long-distance relationship with a digital gift exchange. Even if you can’t be in the same place, you can still create a memorable experience.

• Shipping tips: Send each other gifts through a reliable online store that ships to your partner's location or use services like Amazon Gift Wrap and Delivery.
• Gift reveal video: Schedule a video call to unwrap your gifts together. Make it more interactive by guessing what’s in the box before opening it.
• Handmade online gifts: Send something personal like a video message or a digital artwork you created, paired with an actual gift.
• Budget-friendly ideas: Choose thoughtful gifts that don’t break the bank, like a handwritten letter or a photo album with memories.
• “Open at” instructions: Add a personal touch by instructing them to open the gift at a specific time, like on Christmas morning.

10. Play Holiday-Themed Games Together

Bring some fun and laughter into your long-distance relationship with interactive, holiday-themed games. From trivia to guessing games, these activities can help maintain connection and create lasting memories.

• Online trivia: Use apps or websites to play Christmas trivia, where you quiz each other on holiday facts, traditions, and pop culture.
• Virtual board games: Play classic games like Pictionary, Charades, or trivia with online versions that you can access together.
• Holiday scavenger hunt: Create a holiday-themed scavenger hunt where you give each other clues that lead to holiday-themed items in your respective homes.
• Game night video call: Use video call platforms that have game features, like Zoom with built-in games or apps like Jackbox Party Pack.
• DIY holiday games: Create your own holiday-themed games, such as a “Guess the Christmas Carol” challenge or “Finish the Lyric” game, to keep it personal and fun.

11. Write and Send Handwritten Letters

Take the time to write a heartfelt, old-fashioned letter to your partner. This classic gesture can be incredibly meaningful, especially when it’s thoughtfully crafted.

• Handwritten charm: Write a letter by hand and mail it to your partner or deliver it digitally in a stylized PDF format that looks like a physical letter.
• Include details: Share memories, express your hopes for the future, and recount what you love most about them.
• Personal touches: Add a sprinkle of Christmas cheer with stickers, drawings, or a pressed flower.
• Themed letters: Write letters with specific themes, like “My Favorite Memory With You” or “Top 5 Things I’m Excited About for Next Year.”
• Letter exchange: Plan a time to open and read each other’s letters together on a video call for an intimate shared experience.

12. Create a Joint Vision Board or Scrapbook

Craft a digital scrapbook or vision board that celebrates your relationship and captures your holiday spirit.

• DIY approach: Use apps like Canva or Pinterest to make a collage of photos, memories, and shared goals for the next year.
• Themed pages: Add a page for each holiday season you’ve shared, filled with photos and stories.
• Memories section: Dedicate space to your top five holiday memories together, complete with captions and notes.
• Future plans: Include a page with shared New Year’s resolutions or things you both want to achieve in the coming year.
• Printable gift: Print the final version and send it as a physical gift they can hang up or keep in a special place.

13. Send Surprise Holiday Packages

Put together and send a holiday care package filled with personalized items to make your partner feel loved.

• Personalized picks: Include their favorite snacks, a handwritten letter, holiday-themed gifts, or cozy items like socks or a scarf.
• Unique touches: Add fun items like holiday-themed socks, mini decorations, or a custom ornament with a meaningful date or photo.
• Self-care essentials: Include items like face masks, candles, and essential oils for a relaxing holiday treat.
• Gift wrap creativity: Add a twist to the packaging with festive wrapping paper or gift bags to make the unboxing special.
• Track your package: Coordinate with your partner to open the package on a scheduled video call, so you can share in their excitement.

14. Have a Christmas Movie Marathon

Recreate a cozy holiday movie night even when you’re apart by watching the same films and sharing the experience.

• Choose a theme: Pick a movie genre like romantic Christmas classics, animated holiday specials, or festive comedies.
• Movie-syncing apps: Use services like Teleparty, Kast, or Scener to watch together in real-time while chatting and reacting.
• Custom commentary: Send messages or create a video call to chat about your favorite scenes, characters, or quotes.
• Movie night snacks: Share snack recipes so you both have the same festive treats, like popcorn with Christmas sprinkles or hot chocolate with whipped cream.
• Special moments: Plan breaks to pause the movie and play trivia or share your thoughts on what just happened.

15. Plan a Virtual Holiday Date Night

Date nights don't have to stop just because you're far apart. Create a romantic and engaging evening together that replicates an in-person date.

• Virtual dinner date: Order each other’s favorite takeout or cook the same dish over a video call for a dinner date experience.
• Holiday-themed activities: Play a game, listen to Christmas music, or engage in a fun online activity like trivia or a holiday quiz.
• Interactive gifts: Exchange small digital gifts during your date, like e-cards or gift vouchers to make the night special.
• Setting the scene: Light candles, put on your best outfits, and create a festive atmosphere to elevate the date night.
• After-dinner treats: End the date with a cozy dessert or holiday drink and a heartfelt conversation.

16. Virtual Christmas Karaoke Night

Bring the festive spirit to life with a virtual karaoke night where you can sing your favorite Christmas songs together.

• Online karaoke platforms: Use apps like Smule or online karaoke sites that let you sing and record your performances with your partner.
• Choose songs together: Create a playlist of holiday classics or even throw in some of your favorite non-holiday songs for variety.
• Themed attire: Dress up in Christmas sweaters or holiday-themed outfits to add a fun twist to your performance.
• Make it competitive: Play a friendly game of “who sings it best” or create a scoring system for the best performances.
• Capture memories: Record your karaoke night and share the video for a keepsake that you can both laugh at or cherish later.

17. Holiday Puzzle Challenge

Engage in a friendly competition by working on a Christmas-themed puzzle together online.

• Pick the puzzle: Choose a festive image or a holiday scene that matches your couple’s style or interests.
• Puzzle apps: Use platforms like JigsawPuzzles.io or Puzzle Party to collaborate in real-time and build the puzzle together.
• Time challenge: Race against each other or work together to see how quickly you can complete it.
• Add treats: Share photos of your completed puzzles with each other and plan a video call to admire your work.
• Puzzle swap: If you’re feeling extra creative, order a physical puzzle for your partner and make a fun tradition of solving it together.

18. Create a Shared Christmas Playlist

Music can evoke powerful emotions and help you feel connected, even from afar. Curate a playlist of holiday tunes to share with your partner.

• Favorite songs: Add your partner’s favorite Christmas songs and some that have special memories attached to them.
• Narrate the playlist: Write a short note or voice message explaining why you included each song and how it connects to your relationship.
• Collaborative playlists: Use streaming services like Spotify or Apple Music to create a shared playlist that both of you can contribute to.
• Playlist parties: Have a video call while playing the playlist and dance, sing, or just talk about the memories each song brings up.
• Seasonal updates: Add new songs throughout the holiday season to keep the playlist fresh and interesting.

19. Plan a Virtual Holiday Gift Exchange

Make gift-giving extra special with a long-distance exchange that keeps the holiday cheer going.

• Set a budget: Decide on a budget for the gifts and make sure both of you are on the same page.
• Personalized gifts: Choose something that reflects your partner’s interests, hobbies, or inside jokes you share.
• Gift reveal: Coordinate a time to open the gift on a video call so you can share in the excitement of each other’s reactions.
• Unwrapping fun: Add a twist by playing “Guess What’s Inside” before opening or having clues that lead to the final reveal.
• Surprise element: Send a small, unexpected gift along with the main present for an added touch of surprise.

20. Share a Virtual Christmas Wish List

Creating and sharing a holiday wish list is a great way to ensure that your partner knows exactly what would make you happy.

• List-making apps: Use tools like Google Sheets or collaborative apps like Listonic to create a shared wish list.
• Mix surprises and practicality: Add a mix of practical and fun items, from items you’d love to receive to unique ideas that reflect your shared interests.
• Thoughtful additions: Include items that are sentimental or connected to memories you’ve shared, like matching ornaments or a framed photo.
• Creative ideas: Add experiences or activities you can enjoy together later, like a virtual date night or an online class.
• Keep it flexible: Encourage your partner to add their own ideas or suggestions to the list so it feels like a two-way exchange.

21. Write and Share a Heartfelt Letter or Poem

Take the time to write a handwritten or digital letter to express your love and holiday wishes.

• Express your feelings: Pour your heart out with words that tell them how much they mean to you and what you’re looking forward to in the future.
• Include memories: Reference past holiday memories you’ve shared or moments that have made your relationship special.
• Creative touch: Add a personal twist by using festive stationery or including a small piece of art that you’ve created.
• Read aloud: Schedule a video call and read the letter or poem to them, creating a warm, intimate moment.
• Keepsake option: Save the letter or poem in a shared digital folder or print it out and send it by mail for them to keep as a physical memento.

22. Virtual Christmas Countdown

Build up the excitement leading to Christmas with a virtual countdown that brings a sense of anticipation and joy.

• Advent calendar apps: Use apps that let you create custom advent calendars where each day reveals a new message, picture, or gift.
• Daily surprise messages: Send a text, voice note, or video each day leading up to Christmas with a small gift or a personal note.
• Shared activity: Use a shared calendar or a collaborative document to mark off the days together and celebrate each milestone.
• Countdown challenge: Incorporate mini-challenges for each day, like sharing a memory or a holiday-themed quiz.
• Final reveal: End the countdown with a surprise or gift on Christmas Day to make the day extra special.

23. Virtual Game Night with a Holiday Twist

Playing games can be a great way to bond and have fun, even when you're apart.

• Holiday-themed games: Choose Christmas versions of classic games like trivia, Pictionary, or charades.
• Online board games: Platforms like Tabletopia or Board Game Arena have options for playing board games with your partner remotely.
• Interactive apps: Use apps that allow you to play games like “Would You Rather?”, holiday trivia, or even custom-made quizzes about your relationship.
• Betting and rewards: Add a fun twist by creating small stakes, such as the winner gets to choose a Christmas movie or activity for your next call.
• Make it memorable: Save screenshots or record parts of the game night to create a special memory you can look back on.

24. Virtual Gift Wrapping Party

Turn the gift-wrapping process into a shared experience that brings excitement and joy.

• Video call while wrapping: Set up a video call and wrap your presents while chatting with each other.
• Gift reveal ideas: Have a mini unwrapping party where you show each other how you wrapped your gifts and guess what’s inside.
• Fun challenges: Add a challenge like who can wrap the best or most creative gift or who can wrap the fastest.
• Decorating together: Decorate your presents with holiday ribbons, bows, or tags while showing each other your handiwork.
• Shared playlist: Play holiday music in the background to set the festive mood.

25. Plan a Future Holiday Together

Make plans for a future holiday to give you both something to look forward to.

• Dream itinerary: Spend time planning a dream Christmas getaway or a future holiday trip, from choosing destinations to brainstorming activities you’ll do together.
• Budget-friendly planning: Consider future trips that fit both your budgets and make a savings plan to make it happen.
• Create a vision board: Use Pinterest or a shared document to build a visual board of your dream vacation and what you’ll do.
• Make it interactive: Choose activities you’ll do during the holiday, like picking out decorations, planning meals, or writing a holiday playlist.
• Countdown to the trip: Start a countdown for when you’ll finally be together, adding excitement and something to look forward to in the new year.

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Being apart during the holidays is hard, but it doesn’t have to feel lonely or sad. These 25 ideas help keep the holiday spirit alive and remind you that love knows no distance. Choose your favorite ideas, try something new, and remember that the best gift of all is the love you share, whether near or far.