Being apart at Christmas is hard. Whether it is your partner in another city, parents back home or grandparents you cannot travel to this year, a box in the mail does not always feel like enough.
The best long-distance Christmas gifts do more than arrive. They create a moment you share, even from miles away. Here are ideas that do exactly that.
1. A live violin serenade on Zoom
Imagine your loved one joining a video call on Christmas Eve, thinking it is a normal family chat, and a violinist starts playing live, just for them. A virtual serenade turns an ordinary call into the moment everyone remembers from the holidays.
- Book the date and time, and you get a Zoom link by email and text.
- Invite up to 99 friends and family to join from anywhere.
- Choose from a song list or request a meaningful song with advance notice.
- The performance can be recorded, so you can rewatch it every Christmas.
Alberto Graulau has been playing violin for more than 26 years, performing on television, at international festivals and in the studio. Now he brings that performance straight to your loved one’s screen.
2. An “open on the call” gift box
Mail a box with a few small gifts and a note that says “Do not open until we’re on video.” Then open your gifts at the same time. The reaction is half the gift.
3. A shared Christmas movie night
Pick a holiday classic, press play at the same time and stay on a call or a watch-party app. Send them their favorite snacks ahead of time so the night feels complete.
4. Bake the same cookies
Send the recipe (or the dry ingredients) ahead of time and bake together on video. Decorating cookies is much more fun when you can compare results.
5. A personalized ornament
An ornament with a photo, a date or an inside joke goes on the tree every year. It is a small reminder that you are part of their Christmas, even from afar.
6. Twelve days of letters
Write twelve short notes, number them and mail them together, one to open each day leading up to Christmas. It costs almost nothing and means a lot.
Who a virtual serenade is perfect for
- Partners in a long-distance relationship who cannot be together this Christmas. See our virtual date ideas for more.
- Parents and grandparents you cannot travel to this year.
- Family spread across cities or countries, who can all join the same call.
- Loved ones in assisted living or the hospital. Coordinate with staff to set up a screen so they can enjoy the performance.
Tips for planning the surprise
- Book early. Serenades need to be booked at least 2 days in advance, and holiday dates are specific.
- Get a helper on their end to set up the screen and keep the secret.
- Time it with a gathering, like Christmas Eve dinner or gift opening.
- Invite the whole family so everyone gets to see the reaction live.
Looking for more ideas? Read Creating Holiday Traditions Together, Even Miles Apart.
Frequently asked questions
What does my loved one need?
Any phone, tablet, computer or smart TV that can open a Zoom link.
Can I pick the song?
Yes. Choose from the song list, which includes English and Spanish songs, or request a meaningful piece with advance notice. The serenade is instrumental violin, and Alberto speaks both English and Spanish.
Can I keep a recording?
Yes. Each performance can be recorded so you can relive it.
This Christmas, give them more than a package. Book a virtual serenade and share the moment together.
