Who says holiday parties are just for kids? This year, send the little ones upstairs to wait for Santa and have some grown-up fun. Whether you enjoy dancing and drinks or watching holiday movies in your ugliest sweater, a festive get-together with friends and family is the perfect way to celebrate the season. Are you not much of a party planner? These top four essentials for any adult holiday party can help you get started.
Holly Jolly Playlist
Whether you’re rocking around the Christmas tree or letting it snow, a playlist of holiday tunes is a must for your party. Choose a variety of songs from traditional to contemporary, and remember to incorporate songs from different winter holidays to make everyone feel included. Alternate between upbeat jives and slower melodies so your guests can rest their dancing shoes after cutting a rug.
Festive Refreshments
What’s an adult holiday party without adult beverages? Make a list of your favorite Christmas cocktails and take a trip to the liquor store for supplies. Are you searching for ideas? Try a gingerbread White Russian made with vanilla vodka, Kahlua and cream and garnished with a miniature gingerbread man. For a more refreshing treat, whip up a fruity Jack Frost with pineapple juice, blue curacao and coconut.
Reindeer Games
Rudolph may have felt left out, but your guests won’t when you plan an evening of hilarious holiday party games. Kick off the night with a round of Dirty Santa where your guests battle for fun, affordable gifts. Follow it up with a caroling challenge, gift wrap race and holiday charades. Wrap things up with an ugly sweater contest to crown your worst-dressed guest.
Decked Halls
You can’t expect your guests to get into the holiday spirit without decorations, so make sure your halls are decked before they arrive. Make your tree the star of the show and echo its color scheme in your centerpieces for a cohesive and elegant look. Hang up boughs of holly adorned with lights for festive and functional decorations. Don’t forget to add a sprig of mistletoe in a strategically located doorway for extra cheer and possibly a few uncomfortable moments.
What if you had a party and nobody showed up? Your guests are the most important part of your party, so don’t neglect them. Remember to send out your invitations at least three weeks before the party and encourage your guests to RSVP so you have plenty of time to plan.
