Christmas Party Planning Tips and Ideas

Can you believe it is already Christmas time? Time to start putting up the tree and decorations, and best of all time to start thinking about holiday parties. If it's your turn to throw the shindig, here are a few ideas and tips for how to plan a fun yet simple Christmas party, no matter what your budget is.

Take it Outside

If you have the benefit of living in an area that gets snow around Christmas, take advantage of that feature and consider holding at least part of your celebration outdoors in the snow. Set up snow games for the kids to play, such as a snow man making contest and friendly snowball fight competition. Set up an area with heat lamps to keep the guests somewhat warm while hanging outside, and leave the door open for people to go inside whenever they'd like. Decorate your outdoor patio or backyard with fake snowflakes, and intricate red and green décor. You want to make it look like a winter wonderland of sorts. Don't forget the holiday music, and be sure to provide an outdoor bar with warm drinks (including tea and spiked coffee) to warm up your guests.

Bowling Fun

How about a bowling party for Christmas? Rent out the alley well in advance (like now! because it will get booked up quickly around this time). Decorate the rented lanes and sitting area with Christmas décor and give out Christmas related prizes for the winning teams. If you have a Lucky Strikes or similar bowling alley in your town, this is a perfect place to have a classy, upscale Christmas bowling party.

Egg Nog and Hot Chocolate Party

Keep it simple and intimate this Christmas with an egg nog and hot chocolate party at home with just 10 to 20 of your close friends. Bundle up in your Snuggies and Christmas sweaters. Play board games and watch movies as you all sip on your delicious hot drinks. This is a perfect alternative to a huge, expensive Christmas bash, especially if you're not the type of crowd that likes to drink alcohol during your celebrations. Make gingerbread and chocolate chip cookies and trade small gifts if you'd like. This is the type of party that people just won't want to leave.

Christmas Party for Singles

If you have a group of single friends this is the perfect excuse to have a singles party. Christmas is one of the loneliest times of year for single people, so give your male and female friends a way to meet up with each other. Hey there might even be a few love connections, right in time for New Years!