45 Unique Holiday Party Ideas and Themes
Lauren Miolene
Editor
The holiday season will be here before you know it, but don’t let this time of year stress you out! We’re here to help you find unique holiday party ideas so you can start planning all your winter festivities.
Between Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, birthdays, and everything in between, it can become difficult to find holiday party ideas and unique ways to celebrate without repeating the same old thing every year. Luckily for you, you’re in the presence of party planning experts that will help you put together an unforgettable celebration with our favorite holiday party ideas and festive themes.
1. Santa Claus
What’s December without a visit from The Big Guy? Invite Santa Claus as a special guest at your upcoming Christmas party for guests to share what’s on their wish list. A real life Santa also will create the perfect picture opportunity for your Christmas Instagram photo dump. Start your search for the perfect Santa, Mrs. Claus, and even elves for your get-together!
2. Holiday Party Checklist
Like any successful party, you’ll want to refer to a thorough checklist so you don’t forget any important details along the way. When planning your holiday party ideas, start by choosing a venue, selecting a theme, and of course, booking one of a kind entertainment to celebrate the season.
3. Cookie Swap
Who doesn’t love a traditional cookie swap? Grab your friends and organize a night of baking, recipe sharing, and delicious sweet treats! From dreidel shaped sugar cookies and gingerbread men, to snickerdoodles and peanut butter blossoms, you’ll be able to put together a gorgeous holiday cookie tray featuring a wide variety.
4. Virtual Holiday Party Ideas
If you can’t physically get together this year, try out these virtual holiday party ideas! You’ll want to start a video call and make sure to use our holiday Zoom backgrounds. In addition to decorating digitally, you’ll want to plan activities, book virtual entertainment, and whip up delicious holiday cocktails for an online cheers.
5. Christmas Party
It’s the most wonderful time of the year, Christmas party preparation! Set the bar high this December with unforgettable Christmas party ideas that are sure to impress guests. From Christmas crafts to snowman making competitions, guests will be talking about this holiday bash for years to come!
6. Office Holiday Party Ideas
Whether you’re actually in the office or work from home, nothing beats the excitement of getting together with coworkers for an annual holiday party. Encourage everyone to dress up, organize a gift swap, and maybe even play a few rounds of holiday trivia. Find all of the corporate holiday party ideas and entertainment you'll need on The Bash.
7. Wine Tastings and Pairings
Ring in the holiday spirit with a wine tasting and pairing night. You’re probably thinking, “how many combinations of wine and cheese can there possibly be?” Rather than that classic duo, why don’t you try tasting wine and potato chips? Check out this pairing guide from Wine Enthusiast for a not-so-typical wine tasting night. You could even try pizza pairings or ice cream!
Pro tip: If you want a professional to help you out, consider booking a sommelier!
8. Hanukkah Party
You’re about to celebrate 8 nights, so you’re going to need all the party inspiration and holiday party ideas you can get. Luckily for you we have the ultimate Hanukkah party planning guide that will get you ready for this year’s festivities. You’ll need plenty of traditional food options like latkes and jelly donuts, small gifts for each guest, and all the supplies for the dreidel game. Don’t forget a menorah and the candles!
9. Ugly Sweaters
Ugly sweaters make one of the best Christmas party outfit themes, so it’s time to find the most cheugy and over-the-top holiday sweater. Guests from all backgrounds will have fun wearing the ugliest Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, or Christmas attire that will make the most memorable pictures. Find more ugly Christmas sweater party inspiration on The Bash to get started.
10. Kugel Bake Off
One of the best parts about kugel is that there are so many different ways to make it and flavors to incorporate. For your Hanukkah get-together or to add to the holiday party ideas this year, plan a kugel bake off for guests to participate in. Friends and family can bring their favorite recipe for this dish like traditional noodle, apple, potato, or even zucchini, that everyone can taste, judge, and recipe swap.
11. Festive Phoot Booth
Capture all the memories and smiles this holiday season with a festive photo booth! Guests will love putting on Santa hats, holding funny signs, and getting the opportunity to be goofy with their friends and family. The Bash has photo booth services near you that will make an excellent addition to the holiday shenanigans.
12. How the Grinch Stole Christmas Theme
You’ll want to steal this theme for your very own Dr. Seuss inspired Whobilation! Serve a roast beast followed by Who pudding, decorate with a curved Whoville inspired Christmas tree, and even book an appearance from The Grinch himself. We’re sure this will be the start of your Grinchmas tradition. Follow our guide to host the ultimate Grinch themed Christmas party.
13. Holiday Movie Night
There are countless holiday movies perfect to celebrate this time of year. For a fun holiday party idea, rent a movie screen, pop some popcorn, and cozy up to watch Home Alone, Eight Crazy Nights, or any other winter themed movie for a relaxing get-together.
14. Holiday Happy Hour
If you don’t have the time to plan an elaborate party, why not opt for a shorter, more casual happy hour? Invite friends and family to get together for some drinks and light bites to celebrate the holiday season. Host at home or your favorite restaurant.
15. Buddy the Elf Theme
Inspiration for Christmas holiday themes can be difficult to come by, so take inspiration from your favorite movies to celebrate this season. Transport guests from the North Pole to New York City with an Elf themed Christmas party that is sure to spread Christmas cheer. Serve Buddy’s spaghetti, book carolers to sing loud for all to hear, and find costumed characters to bring the movie magic to life.
16. Baked Brie
If you want an impressive appetizer that is surprisingly simple to make, you’ll love baked brie. The best part is that you can customize the flavor profiles or even make multiple for a delicious holiday party food idea. Bake this creamy cheese with garlic and herbs, sun dried tomatoes and olives, or jam and nuts for a sweet option. Serve with crackers or toasted bread for the perfect finger food.
17. Kwanzaa Party
This week-long celebration is all about honoring African heritage including food, music, and traditional decorations. You’ll want to display a Kinara (candle holder) with Mishumaa Saba (seven candles) to light each night. Book a classic African band to play for guests and serve dishes like fried plantains, jollof rice, and delicious peanut stew.
18. Polar Express Theme
Climb aboard for all the Polar Express party ideas you’ll need! Send invitations that look like train tickets, turn your space into a magical train track using painters tape and signs, and of course, watch the movie! Serve up plenty of festive cookies and hot chocolate that will make everyone want to sing and dance.
19. Pajama Party
Sometimes the more simple the party, the better. That’s why pajama parties are always a huge success. Bring the laid-back energy to your holiday party this year by dressing in your favorite festive pajamas, putting on the holiday classics, and sipping on delicious hot cocoa.
20. Stuffed Mushroom Caps
Another party appetizer that is perfect to customize to your guests’ preferences is savory stuffed mushroom caps. Whip up classic sausage stuffed, crab stuffed, or vegetarian stuffed featuring bell peppers, onions, and zucchini.
21. Ho-Ho-Hoedown
Combine the magic of Christmas time with the classic western party theme for the ultimate ho-ho-ho down. Decorate the event space with twinkling lights and a Christmas tree, serve cowboy favorites like barbecue and espresso martinis, and even book a performance by a country band.
22. Holiday Cocktails
Get the seasonal celebrations started with delicious and festive cocktails. Have you ever had a Sugar Plum Bubbly? How about a hot mug of spiked butterscotch hot chocolate? Take a look at our favorite holiday cocktail recipes that will make your cheeks rosy and have you feeling comfy and cozy in no time.
Pro tip: Do you know what will make these December drinks taste even better? Having them made by a professional bartender. Start your search and book a bartender for your holiday party ASAP.
23. Carolers
Sure you can stream Christmas carols, but listening to them sung by a live group in traditional garb is much better. Bring nostalgic holiday energy to your celebration this year with a talented group of carolers that will make the season even more magical.
24. Holiday Brunch
There’s always so much pressure that comes with holiday dinner and the preparation. Keep the festivities more casual this year with a laid-back holiday brunch party instead. Serve all the crowd favorites like waffles, eggs benedict, and of course, mimosas! If you want to add a festive twist, incorporate holiday flavors to your dishes and drinks like mint, nutmeg, or pumpkin.
25. Hanukkah Music
There aren’t a ton of Hanukkah songs out there, but we’ve put together the ultimate playlist for your eight days celebration. Listen to our favorite Haunnakh songs available on Spotify for easy listening.
26. Coffee Cart
Spread cheer with your holiday party ideas by booking a local coffee cart to whip up seasonal beverages for everyone. From pumpkin spice lattes to peppermint mochas, these coffee cart vendors will make hot and cozy beverages for your guests that will put everyone in the holiday spirit.
27. Après Ski Theme
Take inspiration from your favorite seasonal activities for your holiday party theme. Après Ski consists of the festivities that take place after a day on the slopes; hot cider, a bonfire, cozy outfits—it’s arguably the best part about skiing! Incorporate these winter traditions for an extra unique holiday party theme.
28. Dueling Pianos
If you want to surprise guests, book dueling pianos for a one of a kind holiday party idea. Two pianists play together, complementing and competing with one another for the musical performance of a lifetime. Not only is this show impressive, but it can also be comical with audience participation.
29. Eggnog
Do you know what complements any sweet holiday dessert? A tall, cold glass of spiced eggnog. Pick up your favorite from the store or follow this simple recipe to make your own. Don’t forget to incorporate fun winter flavors like pumpkin, nutmeg, or caramel for this holiday party idea. If you need a night cap, feel free to add a shot of bourbon or brandy to your glass.
30. DJ
There are thousands of holiday songs, it’s impossible to find them all! Leave the music up to a professional DJ that will know the vibes, tone, and the newest cover sung by your favorite artist. Find local DJs on The Bash to get the party started.
31. Around the World Theme
Whether you’re on the hunt for corporate holiday party ideas or just want to add a fun twist to your annual celebrations, incorporate an around the world theme that guests are sure to enjoy.
Honor different countries by inviting guests to bring their favorite holiday dishes, dances, or other traditions from their heritage to travel around the globe. This makes an inclusive and exciting theme, especially if you’re looking for company holiday party ideas.
32. Make Wish Lists
Suitable for guests of all ages, everyone will feel like a child again as they put together their holiday wish list. For this holiday party idea, provide plenty of supplies like construction paper, vibrant markers, and maybe some envelopes in case anyone wants to send it to Santa!
33. Peppermint Bark
Peppermint is a flavor of the winter that needs to make an appearance at your holiday party. To make this minty bark all you have to do is melt down chocolate (milk or dark), pour it onto a lined cookie sheet, and stick it in the freezer to harden. After a few minutes when it’s solid, melt down white chocolate and pour over the top. Sprinkle with crushed candy canes and break into pieces once it’s ready for a holiday party dessert.
34. Party Games
Any holiday party needs a few games and activities to keep guests occupied. Stick with the classics like holiday charades based on your favorite movies, pin the nose on the Rudolph, or holiday party bingo. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even organize a holiday inspired scavenger hunt for the little ones.
35. Caramel Apple Tartlets
For this holiday party idea, fill mini pastry shells with spiced apples, bake, and drizzle with gooey caramel syrup. These tartlets will be the perfect size for guests to snack on and avoid any mess a traditional pie might make.
36. Holiday Murder Mystery
For a unique holiday or Christmas party theme idea, channel the spooky vibes with a holiday inspired murder mystery party! If you’re a fan of whodunits like White Lotus or The Perfect Couple, this theme is the perfect way to make your holiday party stand out. Book murder mystery entertainers to lead the group, plan a special holiday menu for dinner, and incorporate festive characters like Santa Claus, Jack Frost, and the North Pole elves.
If you’re planning virtual holiday party ideas to celebrate online via video chat, The Bash also has murder mystery entertainers that can host remotely.
37. Cocktail Swap
If you’re bored of the traditional cookie swap, shake things up with your holiday party ideas, literally, with a cocktail swap instead! Invite guests to bring the supplies to make their favorite holiday drink and taste a sample from each person. This will act as great inspiration to help you create the cocktail menu for your upcoming holiday party.
38. Festivus for the Rest of Us
Forget the commercial aspect of the holiday season and celebrate simply, Seinfeld style. Take inspiration from George and the gang by decorating with a Festivus pole, preparing a meatloaf dinner, and airing your grievances if you see fit. Remember to keep the festivities lighthearted and humorous to achieve this Seinfeld themed party.
39. Holiday Card Making
The holiday season is all about spending time with the ones you love, so host a holiday card making party for good company. Set up stations equipped with ribbons, markers, stamps, and all the necessary supplies to send your best holiday wishes. This activity is definitely better when it’s done together!
40. Karaoke
Sing your heart out for a classic holiday party idea, karaoke! Guests will enjoy performing favorites like “All I want For Christmas,” “The Chanukah Song,” and “Winter Wonderland” to bring the festive energy. You can even book a karaoke DJ to bring all the equipment you’ll need, how perfect is that?
Pro tip: Start practicing your routine with songs in our Christmas and karaoke playlists.
41. Frozen Theme
If Frozen plays on a loop in your home, your kiddos will love this party theme. Plus, Arendelle makes the perfect winter wonderland that will help ring in the holiday spirit. Serve sandwiches and snowcones, decorate with icicle lights and balloons, and even invite an extra special guest, Sven! Book live animals like reindeer or donkeys that will help bring this holiday party theme to life.
42. Caterer
Leave the cooking to the professionals this holiday season by planning a fancy catered dinner party. Browse local catering services on The Bash and work with the talented chefs to create an impressive menu for the evening.
43. Gold and Glitter Hanukkah Theme
While the traditional blue and white is the classic symbol for Hanukkah, this gold and glitter theme is sure to make the festivities extra special this year. Celebrate the festival of lights with a gold menorah, shimmering dreidels, a gold and glitter tablescape. Decorate with gold plates, silverware, and a shiny gold runner on a white table cloth that will tie the whole theme together.
44. Gingerbread Cookies
Nothing beats the smell of gingerbread baking in a hot oven. Fill your home with this delicious aroma and allow guests to decorate for a fun holiday party idea. Your friends and family will love customizing their cookies and eating them afterwards!
45. Tropical Theme
While the cold weather and snowfall can be magical for some people, some may prefer the beach. Put a twist on your celebration this year with a tropical holiday party theme! Swap the sweaters for floral shirts, serve piña coladas, and decorate your space with flamingos! Book some hula dancers or fire eaters and this is sure to be a unique holiday party idea.
Find more holiday party ideas here on The Bash.
