Hectic holiday seasons are becoming the norm these days, leaving little time to plan a perfect holiday party. But gathering friends and family is still the reason for the season. When the party plans have simply slipped your mind and you need to put something together last minute, don’t worry. Here are some quick, easy, no-stress ideas so you can still throw a festive, memorable party.
Use Simple Decor
You don’t need to spend a ton of time (or money) decking the halls. Focus on a few festive items that you likely already have in your storage closet or recruit others to help you make them from scratch.
- String Lights: There is something magical about string lights. Create a cozy ambiance by draping them around the room, wrapping them around plants, or hanging them along the ceiling.
- Holiday Centerpiece: Pull together a centerpiece with items you have on hand. A bowl filled with ornaments, pinecones, and a touch of greenery brings a classic holiday touch to your table.
- Candles: Create a warm glow by grouping candles of varying heights together on tables, mantels, or even in corners for a soft, elegant touch.
- Wrapping Paper: Use leftover holiday wrapping paper as table runners, placemats, or even place cards. The colorful and festive patterns can liven up the space without any extra cost and eliminates extra waste.
Pick a Theme
Rather than piecing together every detail separately, choose a theme to guide your food, décor, and activities. Here are some last-minute friendly themes:
- Ugly Sweater: Invite your guests to come in their most outrageous holiday dress. Host a competition for ugliest, most creative, and funniest outfits and offer prizes.
- White Elephant Gift Exchange: Ask each guest to bring a wrapped gift—whether it’s funny, thoughtful, or completely random—and enjoy a fun game where guests “steal” each other’s gifts.
- Pajama Party: Holiday pajamas have become all the rage for Christmas morning family photos. Give the coordinated clothing a test drive and host a pajama party.
- Hallmark Holiday: Recreate the charm (and the cheesiness!) of a Hallmark holiday movie. Encourage a dress code of flannels and cozy outdoor gear, strike up the Christmas carols, serve hot cocoa, and get a Hallmark movie marathon going on the TV. Add an extra level of cliché with cozy blankets and a crackling fire.
Serve Easy-to-Make or Take Foods
When you’re short on time, choose foods that are quick to prepare or easy to buy.
- Charcuterie Board: Arrange a variety of meats, cheeses, crackers, fruits, and nuts on a large platter. It’s simple, elegant, and always a hit with guests.
- Stuffed Crescent Rolls: Use pre-made crescent roll dough and fill with options like brie and cranberry sauce, mini sausages, or spinach and cheese. Bake, and you have an instant crowd-pleaser.
- Pre-made Platters: Save time by purchasing pre-assembled cheese, veggie, or dessert platters from your local grocery store.
- Restaurant Catering: Contact a favorite local restaurant to whip up a few dishes for your gathering. No prep, no stress.
Mix up a Signature Holiday Drink
Create a special holiday beverage to give your party an extra festive flavor.
- Hot Apple Cider: Heat apple cider on the stove with cinnamon sticks, cloves, and a splash of orange juice for a warm and aromatic drink. Add bourbon or rum for an adult twist.
- Cranberry Fizz: Mix cranberry juice with ginger ale or sparkling water, then garnish with fresh cranberries and a sprig of rosemary for a refreshing and colorful holiday drink.
- Peppermint Hot Cocoa: Warm milk (or a dairy-free alternative) over medium heat and stir in cocoa powder, sugar, and chocolate chips until melted and smooth. Add a drop of peppermint extract, then top with whipped cream and crushed candy canes for an extra festive touch.
- Spiced Orange Mulled Wine: Combine a bottle of red wine, orange slices, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise in a pot. Heat gently (without boiling) for 15-20 minutes to let the flavors blend. Sweeten with honey or sugar and add a splash of brandy for a deeper flavor. Serve warm with an orange slice or a cinnamon stick garnish.
Send Guests Home with a Holiday Card
Cap off the evening by sending guests home with a holiday card. It’s a thoughtful touch that makes everyone feel appreciated and leaves a lasting impression. Personalize it with a short handwritten note or leave it blank and let it double as a party favor.
Pulling it All Together
Throwing a last-minute holiday party doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice the festive touches that make the season special. With a few easy décor tricks, crowd-pleasing snacks, and simple yet thoughtful activities, you can host a memorable gathering that your guests will appreciate. So, gather your friends and family, put on some holiday music, and enjoy the season!
Kadi McDonald is a freelance writer, marketing strategist, and proud Cleveland sports fan.
