The Top Christmas Party Ideas for 2023
Christmas is right around the corner, and while we're all excited about consuming tons of holiday treats and opening presents under the tree, it's the time we get to spend with loved ones that has us most excited for the "most wonderful time of the year."
Of course, the best way to do that is by hosting or attending a Christmas party, but these can take many different forms in a year like 2023. With that said, we've put together a list of the top Christmas party ideas for 2023 so that you can help plan and/or host a holiday gathering neither you nor your guests will soon forget.
Ugly Christmas Sweater Party
This one is a classic party idea, but it's no less worth having one this year. Ugly Christmas sweater parties have become a "thing" in recent years, and we have to say we're big fans. They're perfect for a few reasons: You get to dress comfy, you can go as funny as you want with your outfit and it's an ideal idea for just about any type of group. Whether you invite friends only or combine friends and family, there's something for everyone to enjoy at a party like this.
(via Shutterstock)
Also read about: These Adorable Sweaters Take the 'Ugly' Out of 'Ugly Christmas Sweater'
Hot Cocoa Tasting
Get out the goodies and gather around the fire—it's time to get cozy with a cup of custom hot cocoa. This is a budget-friendly party idea that requires only a few key things to put together. The fun part comes from adding in the additional elements. Start by setting up a table with base hot cocoa ingredients (yes, store-bought is fine), then place extras like peppermint sticks, holiday-inspired marshmallows, caramels and more in cute containers for party guests to create their perfect cup of cocoa that would make even Santa himself jealous.
Christmas Ball
Have a fancy 'fit you've been waiting for the perfect opportunity to pull out? Now's your time to shine. A Christmas ball, even one thrown in your living room, is a great way to gather with friends and get dressed up to live your best Hallmark movie-worthy life this holiday season. If you want to take it up a notch, you could even add in some masquerade details for a soiree like you've never seen before.
(via Shutterstock)
Christmas Movie Marathon
Another budget-friendly Christmas party idea, this one only requires a solid streaming service and some snacks to execute properly. Get your friends (or family members) together in your comfiest pajamas to watch a bevy of Christmas movies while sipping and snacking on all your favorite holiday treats.
Christmas Cookie Decorating Contest
You might've seen gingerbread house competitions before, but a Christmas cookie decorating session allows for even more creativity (and hopefully less mess). All you need is some cookie mix or dough and a variety of frostings, icings and sprinkles to put this together, then you can compare (and taste) each other's masterpieces at the end.
(via Unsplash)
White Elephant or Secret Santa
Gift exchanges are always a fun idea for the holidays, as everyone gets something without having to spend too much or feeling bad about not getting a gift for each person. Put in a little extra effort for any Secret Santa exchanges by figuring out what the person you're assigned will actually like, or pick a white elephant gift that anyone would be happy to receive if you're going that route.
Also read about: 8 White Elephant Gifts That Will Secure Your Spot on the Nice List
Ornament Painting Party
Let your creative side take over with a Christmas ornament painting party, which is a fun option for those gifted with artistic talents and those who can hardly even paint their own nails properly. It also doesn't require too many materials to pull off, as all you need are some glass baubles, paintbrushes and a few colors of paint to create a souvenir that every guest can have to keep for this Christmas and every one after.
If you're looking for a few extra ideas, why not recycle some of our best ones from last year? Click HERE to check out seven unique Christmas party themes to try this year.