Christmas Party Planning Ideas and Tips

If planning the annual Christmas party provides more stress than fun, you're going to need to make some changes. Use this online party planning guide to get some quick tips and ideas to simplify your holiday routine and plan festive Christmas celebrations and parties for adults

Get Organized

Keep checklists for all of the things you need to accomplish for your party. Put the most important things at the top and consider leaving off anything that's not completely necessary.

Clean Your Fridge

It's not a fun thing to do, but if your refrigerator is cleaned out, it will provide much needed room for food and drinks. Have a cooler on hand (with ice) for any extra food that won't fit in the fridge.

Keep Snacks Simple

Skip the holiday hors d'oeuvres and set out meat, cheese and vegetable trays from the supermarket. Provide olives, pickles, crackers and dip.

Provide Non-Alcoholic Beverages

Have traditional drinks such as coffee, hot chocolate, eggnog, cappuccino and punch available for those who don't drink alcohol.

Have Your Party Catered

Call your local deli or catering company with a list of food you will need for your party. The expense may be well worth the extra time and relief it provides.

Make it a Group Effort

Ask for help and you shall receive. Surprisingly, it often doesn't occur to some people to bring some goodies or pitch in and help. They can't read your mind, so speak up! Clean up is a snap if you provide some extra treats for those who stay to help you clean after the party.

Plan Some Entertainment

Whether it's Christmas caroling or crafts for kids, have some fun stuff in mind to make your party memorable.

Rent a Room

Consider having your holiday meal in a restaurant or convention room. This way, you won't have to do the clean up and guests won't overstay their welcome.

Have a Gift Exchange

Set dollar limits if you're planning a Christmas gift exchange. Make this optional for guests and consider a theme, such as gag-gifts.

Hang Some Mistletoe

While it's probably not a good idea for an office party, it's especially fun for a get-togethers with friends. Adults will enjoy the laughs and it will probably ease any tension.

Have Fun

Don't knock yourself out trying to make the party perfect. When people begin to arrive, switch from "work" mode to "party" mode. The best hosts and hostesses are ones that relax and mingle with the guests.

Be Responsible

Don't let any guests drink and drive. Quit serving drinks an hour before the party ends and have a designated driver or taxicab company # handy for those who overindulge.

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