Hosting a holiday event is about more than just good food and festive décor—it’s about creating a memorable experience for your guests. The right entertainment can turn a good party into a great one, making guests feel engaged, relaxed, and, most importantly, entertained. Whether you’re planning a cozy family gathering or a large holiday bash, having a few activities up your sleeve will keep the energy high and the mood festive.
Breaking the Ice with Welcoming Activities
First impressions matter, so it’s a good idea to have a few activities that help guests feel welcome as soon as they arrive. Start with a festive drink station near the entrance, offering hot cider, mulled wine, or a holiday-themed cocktail. It’s a simple way to get guests in the spirit while giving them something to hold and sip as they settle in. You could also set up a fun photo booth area with holiday props—think Santa hats, reindeer antlers, and sparkly garlands. It’s not only a great icebreaker but also encourages guests to let loose and have fun from the get-go. Plus, everyone loves a good photo op, especially during the holidays.
Creating a Great Playlist for the Perfect Vibe
Music is one of the most important aspects of any holiday event—it sets the tone, fills the room, and keeps the atmosphere lively. Start with classic holiday tunes that everyone knows and loves, then gradually shift to more upbeat tracks as the night goes on. If you’re unsure what to play, think about the overall vibe you want to create. For a cozy family dinner, opt for a playlist of mellow, acoustic holiday songs. For a lively cocktail party, go for energetic remixes or popular hits with a holiday twist. You can even use music as a conversation starter by asking guests to share their favorite holiday song—it’s a simple but fun way to get everyone talking and laughing.
Planning Fun Party Games for All Ages
Games are a great way to keep the energy up and bring out some friendly competition. Consider classic holiday games like a White Elephant gift exchange, where guests bring funny or quirky gifts and take turns picking or stealing from others. If you’re looking for something more interactive, try holiday-themed trivia, charades, or Pictionary. These games work well for both adults and kids, making them a versatile choice for family gatherings. For something more laid-back, consider a holiday bingo game that guests can play throughout the evening. And if you want to add a personal touch, create a custom quiz about your family or friends, filled with funny stories or holiday memories that everyone can laugh about.
Offering a DIY Craft Station for Creative Fun
A DIY craft station is a fantastic way to engage guests, especially if you have kids attending. Set up a table with supplies for simple holiday crafts, like ornament decorating, gingerbread house building, or creating personalized holiday cards. Provide all the materials—markers, glitter, glue, and plenty of festive embellishments—so that guests can dive right in. Craft stations are a hit because they allow guests to create something tangible to take home, adding a personal touch to the event. It’s also a great way for parents to keep little ones occupied while adults catch up and enjoy the party.
Creating Interactive Food and Drink Stations
Food and drinks are central to any holiday gathering, so why not make them part of the entertainment? Set up an interactive food or drink station where guests can customize their own plates or drinks. A hot cocoa bar with toppings like marshmallows, whipped cream, peppermint sticks, and chocolate shavings is always a hit. For food, consider a build-your-own taco bar, a DIY slider station, or even a festive dessert bar with cookies, toppings, and frosting for decorating. These stations encourage mingling, allow guests to get creative, and provide a fun, hands-on element that keeps the atmosphere lively.
Incorporating a Holiday Movie Corner
If your gathering is more casual or involves children, consider setting up a holiday movie corner. Create a cozy nook with blankets, pillows, and a screen playing classic holiday movies on a loop. You can add popcorn, candy, and soft drinks to make it feel like a mini theater. This corner serves as a great spot for kids to settle in when they need a break from the action or for adults who want to relax for a bit. It’s a simple addition, but one that adds a comforting element to your holiday event.
Getting Guests Involved Before the Party
Want to build anticipation before the event even starts? Use your holiday invitations to hint at some of the fun activities you have planned. Include a note about a game that requires guests to bring a small gift or ask them to prepare a story to share. This not only gets guests excited but also gives them something to think about before they arrive. It’s a clever way to set the tone for a festive, engaging event right from the start.
Focusing on Laughter and Connection
Ultimately, the best entertainment at any holiday event is the laughter and connection that come from simply being together. Don’t stress about having every detail perfect—guests will remember the fun moments, the warm conversations, and the feeling of joy more than they will the exact playlist or décor. As the host, your role is to keep things moving, encourage guests to interact, and most importantly, join in on the fun yourself. When you’re enjoying the event, your guests will too, and that’s what makes for an unforgettable holiday celebration.
Wrapping Up with a Memorable Exit
As the event winds down, think about a fun way to end the night. It could be a group toast, a final song that everyone sings together, or even a small takeaway gift like a homemade treat or a personalized ornament. These thoughtful gestures make guests feel appreciated and send them home with a smile, wrapping up your holiday event in the best possible way.
