The days and weeks are all running together as we are adjusting to this new normal in self-quarantine. Have you found yourself double and triple checking what day of the week it is? It may feel like March dragged on forever, while April went by in a snap (or not!). When you are working from home, virtually schooling your children and limiting contact with the outside world, it can be hard to separate the week from the weekend. Luckily, Judaism has a built-in ritual to help us mark the passing of time—Shabbat!

18Doors is jumping on the #FancyFriday bandwagon! While you can of course mark the sabbath with candle lighting, challah, and wine, there are other ways to make Fridays and Shabbat feel a little fancy. Try out some of our suggestions (or think of something new and creative) and share your pictures on social media! Make sure to use our hashtag (#FancyFriday) and tag us (@18Doorsorg) so we can share your pictures!

Ideas to make your Friday a bit fancier:

For Families with Young Children

• Have a Fancy Friday parade! Pull out your fanciest duds and all the musical instruments you can find. Parade around the house and enjoy getting silly!
• Pull out your costume box and bring a new persona to the dinner table.
• Eat dessert first at your Shabbat dinner!
• Read a Fancy Nancy book together.
• Make crowns with glitter and gems and wear them all day on Friday (or at least for dinner!).
• Have a dance party.
• Host a sing-along!

For Couples Planning a Wedding/Newlyweds

• Have a dozen roses delivered to your house.
• Plant a rose bush together.
• If you’ve already gotten married—throw on your wedding dress/suit and reenact your first dance! Who says you can only wear your dress once?
• If you’re planning your wedding—take some time to plan one of the more fun parts of your big day (even if you don’t have a date) each Friday over your favorite beverage.
• Set the table for dinner and turn off the TV. Tell your partner something you are grateful for this week.

For Anyone and Everyone

• Paint your nails a fun color!
• Make an elaborate dinner or try a new recipe.
• Order takeout from a local business and give yourself a break from cooking.
• Watch a recorded concert from one of your favorite musicians.
• Light Shabbat candles
• Buy yourself some flowers.
• Take a shower. Do your hair. Put on jeans, make-up or jewelry–whatever makes you feel fancy.
• Put on your favorite music while you’re making dinner.
• Give your pet a bath so they feel fancy too–outfit optional!
• Make your bed, clean up your home and light a scented candle.

Have another idea? Let us know and we’ll add it! Stay safe, and stay fancy!

At top: Editorial Director, Lindsey Silken’s daughter Sophia getting dressed up

Author: 18Doors

18Doors is here to support interfaith couples and families exploring Jewish life. We offer educational content; connections to welcoming organizations, professionals and programs; resources and trainings for organizations, clergy and other program providers; and our Rukin Rabbinic Fellowship provides offerings for couples in cities nationwide. If you have questions, please contact info@18doors.org.