Be Closer to Your Community Using Captions for Winter Holiday Videos

How to Make Winter Holiday Events Accessible and Inclusive Online

The winter holidays are a time when families and communities come together to celebrate. But public health concerns, like those brought by COVID-19, have changed how many of us gather (CDC, 2020). Virtual events are now the new normal for winter holidays.

The Shift to Virtual Celebrations

Many people now connect with loved ones and their communities online. Places of worship, families, and cultural groups often hold gatherings using video calls or live streams.

This change has made it possible to celebrate while staying safe. However, it also brings new challenges—especially when it comes to keeping holiday events engaging and accessible for everyone.

Why Accessibility Matters

• People with hearing loss or disabilities may struggle to follow online events without extra support.
• Older adults often have some degree of hearing loss (National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, 2021).
• Captioning and transcription make it easier for all generations to feel included.

Benefits of Using Captions and Transcriptions

Adding captioning or transcriptions to your online events can:

• Help viewers understand and enjoy the content, even with background noise.
• Engage multilingual families by providing visual transcripts.
• Support those with hearing loss and people who prefer to read along.
• Make it easier to follow along in large group calls where audio can be unclear.

How to Make Your Online Holiday Event Accessible

1. Use Professional Transcription and Captioning Services

• For pre-recorded services or performances, consider getting a professional transcription of the audio.
• Add clear closed captions so viewers can read what’s being said as they watch.

2. Consider Automated Transcription Tools

• For quick turnarounds, try automated transcription services.
• AI transcription subscriptions can be a good fit for frequent online events.

3. Think About Translation and Subtitles

• Multilingual families or international gatherings can benefit from text translation services.
• Audio translation lets you share messages in several languages.
• Subtitling services help when participants speak different languages.

4. Proofread for Accuracy

• Check transcriptions and captions for errors by using a transcription proofreading service.
• This ensures everyone gets the correct message and avoids confusion.

Real-Life Examples of Inclusive Holiday Events

• Online Spiritual Services: Communities can stream sermons or prayers with added captions, helping members with hearing loss follow every word.
• Family Gatherings: When bringing together loved ones of all ages, captions make it easier for older adults or those with hearing challenges to take part in the joy.
• Cultural Performances: Sharing a song or story online? Subtitles expand the audience and include people who do not speak the primary language.

Steps to Add Accessibility to Your Event

1. Record your event or performance.
2. Upload the video or audio to a reliable transcription service.
3. Request closed captions or subtitles to match your needs.
4. If needed, ask for translations to reach a wider audience.
5. Double-check for accuracy with proofreading services.
6. Share your accessible video or audio with family, friends, or your community!

Making Events More Joyful and Inclusive

• Inclusivity ensures that no one gets left out—especially those who may need extra help to enjoy virtual events.
• Captioning and transcription support communication, build connection, and help share joy—even if the holiday celebrations are different.

Whether you host a large virtual service or a small family get-together, these steps let everyone join in.

Affordable Solutions for Every Budget

• Many professional services now offer affordable transcription pricing and captioning services pricing to fit your holiday budget.
• Fast options are available for events that need quick turnaround times.

How to Get Started

• If you are ready to make your event accessible, order a transcription or order captions with just a few clicks.
• You can upload your files, choose your preferred services, and receive accurate, ready-to-use materials for your event.

Conclusion: GoTranscript Supports Your Accessible Holidays

This winter, making your celebrations open, engaging, and inclusive is easier than ever. GoTranscript offers a range of solutions, including human transcription, captioning, subtitling, and translation services to help you connect with others. No matter the size or language of your online event, GoTranscript can help you create a warm, accessible holiday experience for everyone.