Typically, Thanksgiving is a time to catch up and spend quality time with loved ones, but this year was different. Just before Thanksgiving, Governor Ralph Northam reduced public and private gatherings to 25 people. This was a big change from the previous restriction of 250 people.

Due to COVID-19 restrictions and guidelines, most families ate with only members of their household or utilized Zoom to eat with their families remotely. The pandemic dampened the moods of many and may have ended a few traditions permanently.

According to the New York Times, this year’s Macy’s Day Parade was pre-taped rather than live like the years previous. It was also on a smaller scale, as high school bands weren’t allowed to participate, and the number of balloon handlers was shortened.

Carrington Smith, a junior, hopes Thanksgiving doesn’t change permanently as the pandemic deeply affected how she spent time with her family.

Azzel Khouri shared the same sentiment but understands the validity of COVID-19 guidelines in regards to her safety and believes that everything will fall back into place once the pandemic is over.

“It’s more than just a holiday. This is a way to break free from the world and just spend time with your loved ones,” said Khouri.