As December quickly approaches, it is usually the time of year that feels like one big party, with people meeting up to celebrate the upcoming Christmas and New Year’s festivities with friends and family. However, due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, this year’s festive period is likely to look very different by necessity, with large gatherings and celebrations at bars and restaurants being limited. Despite such limitations, this season can still be very jolly with a perfectly planned at-home festive bash. Here are four tips for a dazzling festive party.
1. Decorations
Christmas trees, tinsel, baubles … possibly one of the first things that comes to mind with the festive period is Christmas decorations. Make sure that your home is bedecked with plenty of decorations to bring a bit of Christmas cheer to your guests, whether on Zoom or in person. Go for your family’s heirloom decorations for a sense of tradition or, for an on trend look, choose a theme for your decorations. You could even make your decorations a central part of your party. Nothing gets you into the festive spirit more than decorating your Christmas tree, the ritualistic switching on of your fairy lights signifying the start of the festivities for your family.
2. Food and drink
The festive period brings with it some of the most delicious food and drink you’ll have all year. Welcome your guests to your party with a glass of warm mulled wine, complete with a slice of orange and cinnamon stick. There are plenty of festive canapes you can offer, such as the traditional pigs in blankets and roasted parsnips. Or, if you want a break from the Christmas food, you could go for something slightly different but no less delicious, such as a vegetarian meal box. Don’t forget a decadent pudding for desert – make a boozy trifle for a festive show stopper, or a sorbet for a refreshing palate cleanser after a heavy meal.
3. Music
If you’re the sort of person who can’t resist listening to It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas in the middle of July, then now is your time to indulge in all your favourite festive tracks without feeling guilty. For a party atmosphere, Christmas classics such as All I Want for Christmas Is You are sure to get everyone up dancing – you could even host a Zoom singalong with family and friends who are unable to join you. Alternatively, there is nothing quite like a traditional Christmas carol for a reflective, calm gathering with your family to contemplate the true meaning of Christmas.
4. Entertainment
The festive period is a time for many people to switch off the TV and open a board game for a few rounds of competitive fun with the family. Classic board games such as Monopoly and Articulate provide hours of fun for the whole family, whether you are aged 7 or 77. Or, for an adults-only gathering, you could have a round or two of Cards Against Humanity.
