Are you getting ready to host a joyous holiday open house? Christmas is the time of year that brings together friends, family, neighbors and colleagues in shared merriment and celebration. You want to make sure your Christmas open house stands out and creates memories that will last a lifetime. Here are a few tips to help you make your Christmas open house extra merry.
Create a Festive Atmosphere
The first step in creating a warm and inviting atmosphere is to start with beautiful decorations. Use classic Christmas colors (red, green and gold) to brighten up your home and make it sparkle with the warmth of the season. Place wreaths on the outside doors and hang candy canes or garlands on the door frames. Adorn your mantle or banister with ornaments and lights. Hang up festive holiday flags and Christmas banners around your house. If the weather is cold, create a festive outdoor atmosphere with luminarias and twinkling white Christmas lights.
Set Up Some Fun Activities
Everyone loves Christmas activities. Set up a Christmas craft station for your guests to create something special. Man the hot cocoa station and don’t forget the whipped cream and marshmallows! Fill clear glass bowls with pinecones, scented candles, ornaments and cinnamon sticks for a festive scent.
Organize a Christmas Music Playlist
Create a special holiday playlist filled with all your favorite Christmas songs to keep the atmosphere cheerful and light. Make sure you have seasonal favorites like “Jingle Bells”, “Frosty the Snowman” and “Santa Claus is Coming to Town”. Play the music softly in the background or at a higher level to encourage your guests to sing along and dance.
Make Delicious Christmas Treats
Food is an important part of Christmas, and what holiday open house would be complete without some delightful, festive snacks? Set out a holiday buffet to give your guests plenty of delicious choices. Consider a combination of yummy finger foods and appetizers like roasted Brussels sprouts, spinach and artichoke dip, festive cheese balls and peppermint bark. Don’t forget about the dessert! Provide festive treats like candy canes cookies, gingerbread houses and chocolate-covered pretzels.
Send Your Guests Home with Take-Home Favors
At the end of the night, your guests will want to remember the event, so why not provide them with small take-home favors? Fill Mason jars with hot cocoa mix, marshmallows, white chocolate chips and candy canes. Get creative and think of other ways to package your take-home gifts, like small decorative bags and boxes. Include a personalized Christmas card with a special message for each of your guests.
Now that you have some great ideas to make your open house extra merry, it’s time to start planning the details. Have a wonderful and joyous holiday season!
