If you love all things merry and bright, then throwing a Christmas party this holiday season is a must. A holiday bash is the perfect way to gather your friends, family members, neighbors, or co-workers for a festive celebration, and while any party involving eggnog and mistletoe is sure to be a good time, we've got plenty of holiday party themes that'll really make your event stand out. From decoration inspiration to party games and unique activity suggestions, these Christmas party ideas can turn your gathering into the highlight of the holiday season, no matter the ages or interests of your guests.
Maybe you're looking to host a subdued Christmastime gathering, complete with impressive appetizers and a tasteful selection of wines. Perhaps you want to rock around the Christmas tree with games, music, and costumes galore. Whatever the case, we have fun ideas for holiday parties of all kinds that your guests are sure to love. It doesn't matter whether you're looking to host an epic event at home, at your church, or in the office — these inventive Christmas party themes can help get you started. Here's hoping you put together a festive fête your guests won't soon forget!
1 SECRET SANTA PARTY
The best way to exchange gifts with a big group is to organize a Secret Santa party. Simply have all your guests draw names anonymously, and then have 'em get a present for the person they select. The best part: Having everyone guess who bought their gift.
2 FESTIVE FONDUE PARTY
Sometimes, the best kind of parties are the ones where you can wear your coziest duds. Invite everyone to wear their favorite Christmas pajamas over to your house for a party that feels like a big adult sleepover.
3 DIY ORNAMENT PARTY
Your guests can tap into their creativity with make-your-own ornaments, which they can then take home to hang on their tree. Pick a craft that everyone can make together, or buy pre-made ornaments that your guests can then decorate.
4 AROUND-THE-WORLD CHRISTMAS PARTY
You may not be able to take all your party guests on a trip around the world, but you can take their taste buds on a journey. Invite everyone to make a traditional Christmas dish from the country of their choice, such as Filipino Lechon Kawali or Mexican Bacalao.
5 SANTA CONVENTION PARTY
Have you ever heard of SantaCon? Have your own Santa Claus convention at home by inviting everyone to dress up as their own version of Santa (or, if they're not willing to fully commit, then at least a Santa hat).
6 UGLY SWEATER PARTY
For another Christmas party classic, instruct your guests to wear the tackiest holiday sweaters they can find, and then have a contest where everyone can vote on the best. The winner of the ugliest sweater gets a prize of your choice!
7 GIFT WRAPPING PARTY
Wrapping all your holiday presents can seem like a real chore, but you can make it fun by turning the task into a party. Grab wrapping paper, scissors, and tape, and collect your friends so you can all do your wrap work together.
8 TROPICAL HOLIDAY PARTY
Give everyone an opportunity to escape from the winter weather for a bit with a tropical-themed Christmas bash. Ask guests to wear Hawaiian shirts so they're perfectly dressed for the occasion, and hand out leis to really set the tone.
9 GIVING BACK PARTY
The holiday season is all about generosity, so why not organize a party that's all about giving back to those who need it? Bring suggestions for goods to donate, then gather everyone to put together packages for the organization of your choice.
A Nutcracker theme is a fun idea for both kids and adults. Decorate your home with nutcrackers of all sizes, and to tie in the theme, serve up goodies like Mouse King Cake, Sugar Plum Punch, and Danish Croissants.
11 MOVIE MARATHON PARTY
If you have a big TV or projector screen, then it'll be easy for you to host a Christmas movie marathon. Make sure you have plenty of snacks on hand, and then spread out throw pillows and blankets so everyone is cozy.
12 CHRISTMAS KARAOKE PARTY
A Christmas sing-a-long party may seem cheesy, but your guests will have a ball, promise. Get a karaoke machine or microphone, and have everyone taking turns belting out their favorite holiday tunes.
13 GINGERBREAD HOUSE PARTY
Tap into everyone's competitive side with a good ol' fashioned gingerbread house decorating contest. Just be warned: Things can get messy, so be sure you lay down a tablecloth and get your guests some aprons.
14 FAVORITE THINGS PARTY
Put a fun twist on Oprah's Favorite Things list by having your own Favorite Things-themed celebration, where guests gift each other some of their fave products and goodies. Be sure to set a budget before your guests choose the items.
15 ESCAPE ROOM PARTY
Sure, you probably don't associate escape rooms with Christmas, but there are plenty of holiday-themed escape room kits that you can purchase to enjoy with friends. And of course, anyone who's feeling extra creative can also put together their own game.
Speaking of games, your friends will love coming over for a night of holiday-themed games. Whether you break everyone into teams or have 'em compete as individuals, a little friendly competition is sure to get everyone in the holiday spirit.
