by Medha Sarin, staff reporter
Photo provided by Patricia Livingston
Months ago, it was completely normal to invite friends over and hang out together (less than six feet apart), accept presents from them (without wearing gloves!), and even blow out on a cake in their vicinity. In other words—have a birthday party. But although those traditional aspects are impossible to replicate, it hasn’t stopped people from finding new ways to celebrate the Big Day.
Drive-through birthdays have become a popular way to celebrate while still following safety restrictions. This method involves the birthday guests visiting the host but staying in their cars to interact from a safe distance. Freshmen Calloway and Patricia Livingston decided to use the drive-through style for their recent birthday celebration.
“I love the idea of people driving by and waving, even though we can’t hug,” Patricia said. “I saw other people do [drive-through birthdays on social media] and was like, “‘Oh my gosh, we have to do it. I just love that idea.’”
Although the drive-through method was created for the current conditions, Calloway can see it being used after the quarantine.
“[Drive-through birthdays] would still be a viable option if time or money is strict and you need to have a quick party,” Calloway said.
Despite the restrictions that came with social distancing, some of the Livingstons’ birthday guests found ways to heighten the experience.
“Some people can get really creative,” Patricia said. “[One of the birthday guests] stood at the back of her dad’s truck and threw silly string and streamers, and played music.”
Drive-through birthdays aren’t the only new method out there: virtual parties, though less popular, are also a way to celebrate. This option involves hosts communicating with guests through video chat.
However, when asked to compare to the two methods, Patricia felt the ability to interact face to face was more valuable.
“Virtually is a good idea, but being able to see each other in person [made] my heart happy,” Patricia said.
Freshman Kate Catelena, who attended the Livingstons’ drive-through birthday, also values the in person aspect over the digital screen.
“There’s almost less communication [in a virtual party] because you only see one person at a time,” Catelena said. “You can’t do as much with your face and body language. But with [drive-through birthdays, it is] still in person, just from a distance.”
Catelena found the drive-through method to be a safe and fun experience.
“[The Livingstons’ drive-through birthday] still felt like a birthday party, [even though it] was so different,” Catelena said. “It was really simple but really sweet.”
