Editorial: Creativity and community keep holiday spirit alive

Hanukkah starts at sundown Thursday; Christmas arrives in just over two weeks. Yet, we can't help but look around, lament what's been lost in light of COVID-19 and invoke a Scrooge-like "Bah, humbug."

But thanks to the dedication and innovation of community leaders, theater artists, local businesses, committed volunteers and more, there are still plenty of ways to celebrate the season safely.

• Suburban and Chicago theaters are streaming versions of "Hershel and the Hanukkah Goblins," "It's A Wonderful Life" and "A Christmas Carol" so we can relive Ebenezer Scrooge's past - and glimpse his future - from the safety of our homes.

• Musicians have transformed traditional Christmas concerts into virtual holiday shows. Many are donating proceeds to help families in need or to venues shuttered for months by the pandemic.

• Local officials have gotten creative in light of rising COVID-19 cases with virtual tree-lightings, drive-through events, Christmas caravans and more.

• Holiday light shows have adapted to the times, with drive-through options in Lisle, Northbrook and other spots.

• Restaurants are crafting holiday takeout packages so you can relax instead of spending days in the kitchen.

• Some suburban malls are offering virtual visits with Santa on top of his masked, socially distant, in-person appearances.

Ideal? No.

What we envisioned last December? Nope.

What we hope to see next year? Definitely not.

But you have to admire the vision and drive of those throughout the suburbs who have worked hard to keep - and spread - holiday spirit in the toughest of times.

We saw it on July 4 when patriotic parades and food-filled fests were replaced with safer celebrations.

We saw it on Halloween, when families crafted long chutes to deliver candy to neighborhood trick-or-treaters.

And we see it now - in so many inspiring ways.

The pandemic has taken much from us these past several months. But there is no denying that the need for social distancing has ignited a renewed sense of creativity and a different sort of community.

We are incredibly grateful for the innovative souls who manage to spread joy, for the local leaders who find ways to foster that spirit and for the many area residents who embrace challenges instead of giving in to them.

They have given us a great gift this holiday season.

And it's enough to keep our inner Scrooges at bay.