Everyone loves a good holiday party - and they love the person hosting it even more. But as a wise man said, with great parties come great responsibility. (At least we think that's what they said.) Hosting a holiday party is no small task, but with the Christmas Night Holiday Party Buying Guide, you'll be on the right track. We'll help you with all the necessities to have on hand for any type of party so you can spend less time stressing out and more time with guests.
Holiday Party Food
A home Christmas party often has a bring-your-own side dish and dessert. But the main dishes, and some of the sides, are usually up to you. You'll want to focus on things that will feed a lot of people without taking your entire day. Some things you might make or order are:
- Grilled Meats - Those who live in a warmer climate can break out the grill for everything from burgers and hot dogs to chicken and steaks.
- Stews and Soups - These are relatively easy to prepare and also keep well if there are leftovers. They can also be prepared in advance and reheated without sacrificing the flavor.
- Quiches and Casseroles - Other foods that can be whipped up easily and adjusted to fit the holiday theme.
- Cheese and Crackers - This is a party staple. Stock your pantry with several kinds of crackers and pre-sliced cheese, and add some pepperoni or salami slices to kick things up.
- Chips & Dip - Having a few types of chips along with dips or salsa makes for good snacking. You can add a vegetable platter as well for a healthier option.
- Cookies - Cookies go well with any holiday, but especially at Christmas. Sugar cookies, gingerbread cookies, peanut butter cookies, chocolate chip cookies, you name it, people will love it!
Christmas Libations
If you think lots of beverages are consumed at a corporate holiday party, just wait until you host your first gathering. As with food, home parties can have a BYOB component. But you should still provide plenty of drinks on your own, including:
- Wine and Spirits - Christmas is a good time for these classier drinks. If wine is the main beverage, we recommend getting at least one bottle per expected adult guest.
- Beer - Decide what to buy (light beers, lagers, craft IPAs, etc.) based on who you expect to be there. Feel free to ask in advance what they like if you're not sure.
- Soda - This can be added to mixers or offered as a non-alcoholic option for non-drinkers, designated drivers and children.
- Cider - Whether served hot or cold, a good glass of apple cider always goes down easy.
- Hot Chocolate & Egg Nog - The beauty of these drinks is that they can be served as kid's drinks or made into an adult potable with a shot of rum, vodka or schnapps.
- Coffee and Tea - These are a great choice for more formal affairs as a pick-me-up or post-meal chaser.
- Water - Sometimes, people just need a good glass or bottle of water. This will also reduce the chances of post-party hangovers.
Food & Beverage Supplies
You didn't think people were just going to eat and drink out of their hands, did you? Make sure to have plenty of these supplies available that look classy and can easily be stored or disposed of afterward.
- Holiday-themed paper plates and serving trays
- Cocktail napkins
- Glasses
- Eating utensils (forks, knives, spoons)
- Serving spoons, forks and spatulas
- Ice and an ice bucket (plus tongs or a scoop)
- Grill gas or charcoal/lighter fluid (if grilling)
- Coolers and/or ice tubs to chill beverages
- Condiments - ketchup, mustard, horseradish, etc.
- Cream and sugar (for coffee and tea)
- Salt and pepper
- Bottle openers
- Bar garnishes - olives, lemons, limes, etc.
Other Party Supplies
From the time people start arriving to the day-after clean-up, you want to keep the experience pleasant. This means having everything to stay organized and maintain the festive mood as you go. Some things to consider are:
- Coat racks and extra hangers
- Boot racks
- Umbrella stands
- Candles
- Extra garbage bags and buckets
- Extra toilet paper
- Dish soap and dish racks
Party Decorations
You probably have some old Christmas lights and ornaments kicking around that will look alright to guests. But hosting a holiday party is a great excuse to introduce a few new decorations that will impress guests now and can be used again later. Some things that will fit a typical homeowner's budget include:
- Life-Size Statues - Setting one or two toy soldier statues, nutcracker sculptures or snowmen by the front entrance is a charming way to greet your guests.
- Animal Figures and Sculptures - Reindeer, polar bears, dogs, penguins and other popular winter animals can be staged outdoors or indoors depending on how the figure is constructed.
- Holiday Stars - Hang a new star at the top of your garage as a beacon for guests or on the tree inside to brighten the mood.
- Light Displays - Thanks to the use of modern LED lights, it doesn't cost much to run a colorful light-up wreath or train car all night.
- Tabletop Decorations - If you don't have space or money for larger statues, a few tabletop Santa's, animals or nativity sets can make a good impression throughout the evening.
