2021 - Travel from Home to Virtual Holiday Celebrations Around the World
by Jenny Javitch, Founder of Global Game Plan
Disclosure: Please note that some of the links below may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase.
UPDATED FOR THE 2021 HOLIDAY SEASON
This is typically the time of year when European Christmas markets are in full swing and countries all over the world are excited to host holiday tourists. While some of these holiday activities are still on for 2021, international travel can still be challenging. So…to keep the festive holiday spirit alive, Global Game Plan has rounded up the best virtual holiday celebrations around the world including things to do in December 2021 and throughout the holiday and winter season. Happy Travels and Happy Holidays!
Events Around the World (Live or Streaming)
Nutcracker ballet performed by members of the Dnipro Opera and Ballet Theatre in Ukraine (2019)
*Check each individual website for pricing, timing and other relevant details. If you are watching something live, please be sure to confirm the show’s time zone.
Ballet & Dance
Stream the New York City Ballet’s landmark production of “George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker” available through January 2, 2022.
If ballet isn’t really your jam, watch live and engaging pantomime theater in the United Kingdom which is offering Cinderella for Xmas 2021.
Trains
The New York Transit Museum has a short recorded two part Virtual Holiday Train Show while the Canadian Pacific Railroad will share their 2021 "Holiday Train at Home" concert on Saturday, Dec. 18, at 6 p.m. MT/8 p.m. ET.
Music
Due to last year’s popularity, Andrea Bocelli’s is performing another live Christmas concert on Friday, December 10 (4 am EST) but you can watch the replay for 48 hours after that. Bocelli fans will love watching this recorded “Hallelujah” duet with his young daughter in Parma, Italy.
You won’t want to miss these popular music videos featuring Hamilton starts singing Hannukah songs online…listen to Daveed Digs singing Puppy for Hannukah and Leslie Odom Jr singing Ma’oz Tzur. Also in the mix is Lin-Manual Miranda and others from around the world singing Feliz Navidad.
The St. Paul Chamber Orchestra is live streaming holiday music performances throughout December or you can watch the musical comedy MeshugaNutcracker! on Broadway HD anytime.
Live Guided Tours
Sign up for a live walking tour of Christmas in NY's Rockefeller Center provided by two New Yorkers (new times added daily).
Airbnb Online Experiences (one of the best holiday activities for adults) has tons of festive experiences or travel destination choices – it’s an easy way to make a personal connection with people around the world.
Related: Check out these companies that offer a variety of online virtual travel experiences.
Around the World
Watch a replay of the 2021 National Christmas Tree Lighting in Washington D.C. featuring many popular musical guests.
The Walker Art Center in Minneapolis annually hosts the British Arrow Awards (a compilation of award winning commercials from the United Kingdom) - this year they are offering streaming tickets through January 9.
Holiday Shopping Online
Is holiday shopping one of your favorite things to do in December? Well, for those who cannot go in person this year, Google shopping is offering Window Wonderland where you can window shop on New York’s famous shopping streets.
Kids can also visit Santa online at Macy's Santaland in the U.S. (through December 24) or take a stroll through some streets of London.
If you’re missing your annual trip to a Christmas market, or you’ve always wanted to visit one, now is your chance to tour them virtually!
While you’re thinking of travel, why don’t you buy a gift for the traveler in your life. If you know someone who is into space travel, check out this Star Trek gift guide.
View some photos of unique Christmas trees across the USA or buy some Christmas ornaments for travel enthusiasts!
If you have an anniversary coming up, plan a special date night at home.
Virtual Santa Visits
Looking to schedule some 1:1 time with Santa online? Book in advance with Santa’s Club, Jingle Ring or Mr. Kingle & Company.
Or you can try to spot him on the fly via the Santa Claus Village Arctic Circle Live video webcam in Finland.
New Year’s Eve
Submit a New Year’s Eve wish online and it will be included on the confetti in the Times Square New Year’s Eve celebration.
Listen to the St. Paul Chamber Orchestra stream a New Year’s Eve concert on December 31st at 8pm EST and 11:30 pm CST.
Create your own champagne cocktails from these 27 festive choices. While you’re at it, give an around-the-world toast using this fun printable game.
Related: 15 New Year's Food Traditions From Around the World
Winter Activities Indoors
Start winter off right with a virtual 360 degree dog sled ride in Fairbanks, Alaska or learn about unique traditions, celebrations, and holidays that occur around the world during December and January.
Speaking of winter holidays, learn how ancient cultures commemorated the winter solstice or watch the replay of the winter solstice livestream from Stonehenge.
Have fun in the kitchen baking these melted snowman cookies that are sure to make anyone smile (well, anyone except the snowman =)).
Put together these digital puzzles from Minneapolis.
Related: 7 Winter Solstice Festivals to Celebrate the Sun’s Return
Things to Do in December & January at Home
Curious about how Christmas is celebrated all over the world? Read this blog post or watch these kid-friendly videos about Christmas traditions or check out this list of festive drinks and Christmas dinners around the world. You can also hear from Rick Steeves (the travel expert) about his experiences with Christmas in Europe.
Set up a Christmas tv background (hint: it’s a roaring fire with lots of music options) or pretend you’re next to the lobby fireplace in a Fairmont Hotel in Canada.
Related: 9 Christmas Movies From Around the World You Can Stream Right Now
Make your own cozy holiday breads or festive cakes to fill the season with joy. Become an international bartender while creating some German mulled wine, Hannukah cocktails or other delicious holiday drinks from around the world.
Or skip the at-home-cooking and order some treats or a meal from restaurants around the USA to be delivered during the holiday season or anytime throughout the year.
Send a postcard from your virtual travels with this easy-to-use website/smartphone app that will mail a hard copy postcard for you anywhere in the world! You can also send individual holiday cards with or without photos, but all from your smartphone or computer.
Create your own Virtual Flat Stanley and travel around the globe.
Join the Polar Pen Pal program, where you will explore Inuit culture through exciting, educational monthly games and activities for kids ages 5-12.
If you’re struggling during this time, please read How to survive the holidays during a pandemic.
Celebrating another occasion this month? You can use these ideas to plan some virtual happy hour games, go in a virtual date in Hawaii or a travel-themed birthday party on Zoom. (and use this free planning checklist to help)
Local Travel Destinations
Cities across the U.S. are offering some type of European-style Christmas markets or drive-through holiday lights display so find out if your city is on the list.
Related: 5 Ways to Love Your Cold Weather Vacation
After you’ve experienced these virtual holiday ideas, you can travel in person to stay at a festive hotel in the U.S. or visit of these towns where you can live your own Hallmark Christmas movie.
Related: 8 Essential Tips for Booking on Airbnb
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When you’re ready to travel again, Global Game Plan would love to help you plan your next vacation. It’s our job to make in-person and virtual travel easier for you!