Christmas Party Games – Plan a happy event!
Christmas: games, parties and fun! Who can resist the joys of the holiday season, all the decorations, traditions, contagious joy, and endless parties! If the Christmas spirit has led you to organize a Christmas party, you have come to the right place! With a little planning, you can put together a memorable Christmas soiree that will be remembered well into the new year.
It’s just around the corner – plan ahead!
In case you haven’t noticed (but we’re sure you have), December is a busy month and it gets crazier as Christmas approaches. The best advice on this topic is to PLAN AHEAD! Planning in November will ensure you have time to organize the party and still tackle your own holiday “to-do” list. You will also be able to send the invitations before your guests’ Christmas calendars are full.
Be careful with your pocket – Set a budget
The first and most important step is to set a budget! Determine how much you can comfortably spend. Setting a budget (and sticking to it) will not only keep some Christmas cash in your pocket, but it will also help guide your party planning decisions.
All the crew and Aunt Sue too – Make the guest list
Be realistic about how many guests you can handle. Consider the size of your venue and the work involved in entertaining a group. Remember, too, that it’s the season for merriment and someone is likely to bring an extra guest or two. It’s best to have a shorter list of closest friends and family, unless you plan on having some hosting help and can afford to feed and entertain a larger crowd.
Any day now: choose a day and time
It’s the season for full social calendars, so choose your date early and wisely. If possible, it is best to give the guest at least three weeks notice. Saturday is usually the best day for most people to attend, but Sunday can be good too. Remember to keep your schedule in mind, make sure you give yourself plenty of time to prepare for the party and get on your holiday “to do” list.
It’s all about the food: plan the menu
Your budget, guest list, and party time will help guide this step. You can choose a potluck event, a catered event, or anything in between. Perhaps a formal dinner and invite guests to bring their favorite dessert. The only rule about food at a party is the time of the party. If your party schedule includes dinner time, you should serve heavier entrees. Late night parties can serve lighter or heavier appetizers and desserts. Don’t forget the drinks! Alcoholic beverages are not required, so don’t feel obligated to serve them. Perhaps the wine options are a better fit for your adventure. If you offer alcoholic beverages, make sure you have alternatives for non-drinkers and designated drivers. Keep bar drinks simple to avoid the extra work of bartending and the added expense of stocking the bar. If any of your guests have one too many, make sure they don’t drive home.
Get the Party Started – Plan the Fun
Above all, your Christmas party should be fun! Plan fun activities to get the party started and going.
– Christmas party games. Games are a great way to get your guests talking and mingling.
– Trim the tree. Take out all the decorations on your tree and let your guest trim your tree.
– Christmas carols. Take the party outside and sing Christmas carols for your neighbors.
– Decorate cookies. Set up a table with icings and cookie chips and let your guest decorate. You can take your decorated cookies home.
– Exchange gifts. Or secret Santa or grab bag style. Be sure to include this on your invitations along with a spending limit.
Ya’ll Come – Send the invitations
Now that the party plans are in place, it’s time to send out the invitations. Remember, three weeks (or more) notice is best, so get them out ASAP!
It’s The Thought That Counts – Party Favors
This isn’t always necessary, but it’s nice to give each guest a small token of thanks for coming. This can be as simple as a piece of cake to take to a beautifully wrapped party favor. Once again, the cry of the clock is… budget!
Countdown: final steps
Purchase party decorations and accessories 2 weeks in advance. This will give you time to find any items that are difficult to locate. If you plan to order Christmas party games or other party supplies online, shop three to four weeks before the party.
Buy food and drinks the night before the party. Also, prepare any food that can be made ahead of time the night before. This will give you time to decorate, prepare the food, and get ready for your guest.
There you have it, plans for a fun filled event and Christmas games! Have fun and remember, no matter the budget or theme, your guest will appreciate the time you spend sharing the joys of the season with family and friends. Above all, keep it fun and you won’t go wrong!