The apps you need to really experience holiday cheer
Tomorrow is Thanksgiving, which means you are likely prepping to travel, baste a few turkeys, generously sip seasonal cocktails, and let problematic-yet-lovable uncles talk your ear off.
For as much ceremonious cheer holidays give us, they can also take a lot out of us—Finding the perfect recipe, forced interactions, long travel days—your head is spinning already! Sometime we just need a little reprieve!
Here’s one to help you navigate the holiday season like a pro: a special Webby Staff Picks on “How to Survive the Holidays.” The Webbys and affiliated team shares their favorite apps, podcasts, games, and more that help feel more cheerful and less grinch-like during the season.
Angela Carola Managing Director, Industry Relations Favorite App/Service:White Noise App
“We couldn't get through the holidays without a White Noise Machine App. I'm from a big family in New Jersey and holidays have 30-40 people crammed into a small house, there is a lot of laughs, food, and BOOZE. That means my husband, 5-year old daughter, and I have to spend the night. We have a designated bedroom that is five feet off the living room and the party rages until the wee hours of the morning. The only way to shut out the noise and get a little bit of sleep (besides the eggnog and spiked cider) is a White Noise App. I'm partial to the Air Conditioner setting but my husband and I both have them and blast them at full volume! There are a lot of choices so search for one that has a tone you like and helps you get some sleep!”
“As someone who comes from a culture that doesn't celebrate Thanksgivings, Friends, one of the first American tv series I've ever watched before I came here, let me get a glimpse of what Thanksgiving would be like in a dramatic(maybe not) way. Still remember Joey's turkey head look!”
“Don’t worry, I’m not watching these movies on my phone, Martin Scorsese. But since it came out earlier this year, my favorite activity to avoid conversations at gatherings is going through the huge list of films the Criterion Channel has to offer and adding some to my watch list for a later time (and with a larger screen).”
Emily Warren Managing Director, The Lovie Awards Favorite App/Service:Heads Up
“Heads Up is truly just so much fun — it’s the perfect activity for post-huge-meals, where everyone can play, kids and adults alike. Laughs are guaranteed; laughter is my antidote of choice to the inevitable political arguing that is sure to arise between my extended family when trapped all together for an entire day at home!”
“I love the Culture Trip app. December is usually when I start planning trips for the new year, so looking through the app and the site for inspiration on the places I've been thinking about visiting provides a nice break between all the massive meals taking centre stage at my family gatherings. It also makes me look forward to the new year in a really positive light. Podcast-wise, "My Dad Wrote a Porno" is a great one to listen during long flights or if you've had a moody day. I literally laugh out loud every time.”
