12 Fun & Festive Holiday Party Ideas

December 06, 2023 6 min read

The holiday season brings with it a certain magical charm, a blend of sparkling lights, laughter, and the aroma of delicious treats wafting from kitchens. Above all, it's the festive gatherings, the chance to connect with loved ones, and the heartwarming camaraderie that truly emphasize the spirit of the holidays. 

Whether it's the nostalgic tunes playing in the background or the anticipation of a fun-filled holiday party, there's an undeniable allure to these annual celebrations. Let’s dive into some fun holiday party ideas to make this season unforgettable.

1. Ugly Sweater Party

The ugly Christmas sweater party has firmly etched itself into contemporary holiday traditions, offering everyone a chance to showcase their most outlandishly festive knits. Whether it's a sweater depicting a snowboarding Santa or one adorned with twinkling LED lights, this Christmas party theme revels in its light-hearted, fun nature. 

It's not just about the sweaters, though; it's about embracing the playful spirit, celebrating the audacity of the designs, and enjoying the shared laughter. Remember, at this party, the gaudier, the better!

2. Holiday Movie Marathon

Imagine this: The room is dimly lit, blankets and cushions strewn everywhere, the faint scent of hot chocolate wafts in the air, and the screen lights up with the opening scene of Home Alone. Ah, perfection

Hosting a Christmas movie marathon is a stellar way to usher in the holiday spirit. From timeless classics like A Christmas Story to contemporary favorites, there’s a Christmas movie for everyone. 

Don’t forget the snacks — marshmallows bobbing in hot chocolate, candy canes, and freshly baked cookies make the experience even more delightful. It’s cinematic coziness at its best! To really amp up the holiday spirit, elevate your movie night with one of our sleepover bed air mattresses. Get ready for some memories you (and your kiddos) will never forget!

3. Gingerbread House Decorating Party

The delicate aroma of gingerbread, the excitement of artistic creation, and the pure joy of indulging your sweet tooth — yes, we're talking about hosting a gingerbread house decorating party. Invite your friends and family, and have everyone bring a few unique candy decorations or embellishments. Spread out an array of colorful candies, sprinkles, and icings. 

Whether you go for a cottage or a mansion, gingerbread house decorating offers a hands-on, delightful experience, perfect for friends, couples, or families to bond and create.

4. Secret Santa and White Elephant Exchange

Anticipation hangs in the air: Who did you draw for Secret Santa? What quirky gift awaits you in White Elephant? It's this blend of mystery and merriment that spices up every holiday party. When it's time to pick out presents, let your imagination wander between thoughtfulness and outright fun.

For instance, you could gift our Candy Cane Inflatable Shotski! This is equal parts fun and functional since whoever ends up with this stellar gift will be able to take the party with them wherever they go.

5. Around the World Holiday Potluck

Add a twist to the usual holiday dinner party by hosting an "Around the World" potluck. Encourage your guests to bring a dish from a different country or culture's holiday celebration. It's a delightful way to discover and enjoy a diverse array of flavors and traditions. 

From Italian panettone and Jewish latkes to British mince pies and Spanish turrón, the world is brimming with festive delicacies. Accompany the feast with tales from each region, enhancing the cultural richness of your gathering.

6. Holiday Karaoke Night

Deck the halls with notes of fa-la-la! What's the holiday season without belting out some classic Christmas tunes with your crew? Host a Holiday Karaoke Night, where the eggnog flows and the vocals go from timid whispers to proud anthems. Create a holiday playlist with all-time favorite Christmas carols, like "Jingle Bells" and "All I Want for Christmas is You." 

Whether you're part of a dedicated caroling team or just gathering with some team members for fun, a good old-fashioned sing-along never goes out of style.

7. Pajama Brunch Party

Brunch is already a favorite, but combine it with the comfort of pajamas, and you’ve got yourself an unbeatable holiday get-together. Lay out a spread of brunch goodies — think cinnamon rolls, fresh fruit, and egg casseroles — all ready for your guests who show up in their coziest PJs. And for the young ones or the young at heart, add a story session. 

Picture this: children and adults alike, snuggled up, listening to a classic Christmas story. As a sweet addition, consider our Pink Castle Sleepover Kids Air Mattress. Not just any air bed, it brings a touch of fantasy to your setting that’s perfect for lounging.

8. Virtual Holiday Hype

Distance doesn't mean the holiday spirit should be any less festive. Embrace the age of digital with a Virtual Holiday Hype. Platforms like Zoom have become second homes for many, so why not turn them into venues of joy?

Start by sending out e-invites for your virtual event, complete with a theme. Maybe it's "Show and Tell," where each participant showcases their holiday decor or shares a cherished holiday tradition. Intersperse the event with rounds of holiday trivia and other team-building games. 

Make it engaging by encouraging participants to deck out their backgrounds, bringing a slice of their holiday world to the screen.

9. Scavenger Hunt: Holiday Edition

Unleash the inner detective in your guests with a festive Scavenger Hunt! Create a list of holiday-themed items for participants to find, from twinkling snowmen hiding in your backyard to candy canes sneakily tucked behind cushions. Don't stop at just items; include riddles that direct hunters to popular holiday traditions or memories.

"Not a creature was stirring, not even a..." might lead someone to a mouse-shaped ornament, for example. This activity not only ignites the holiday spirit but also a sense of adventure and fun. It's a guaranteed hit, especially when the final treasure is a gift card or a special holiday treat!

10. Eggnog and Hot Cocoa Happy Hour

Transform your living room or patio into a haven of warmth and festivity with an Eggnog and Hot Cocoa Happy Hour. Begin with a rich, creamy base of homemade eggnog and hot cocoa, and then let guests have a blast personalizing their drinks. Set up a DIY toppings bar featuring fluffy marshmallows, colorful sprinkles, whipped cream, and apple treats for a tangy twist.

The most fun part? Getting to mix, match, and experiment with flavors! Don't forget to have a few mugs with cheeky holiday sayings to add a touch of holiday humor to your drink station.

11. Office Party Extravaganza

Who says office parties have to be stiff and formal? This year, elevate the traditional office party with a touch of whimsy. Start with the basics: Secret Santa gift exchanges, holiday-themed team-building activities, and, of course, an endless supply of Christmas cookies. Then, add a twist. 

Perhaps it's a Grinch theme, with green decorations and "Heart-Grew-Three-Sizes" awards for employees. Or launch an "ugly office sweater" contest where tackier is better! 

By blending tradition with a touch of fun, you'll ensure that this year's office party is not just another item on the December to-do list but an event that every team member eagerly anticipates.

12. Gingerbread House Contest

There's nothing quite like the scent of sweet gingerbread and the joyful camaraderie of friends and family during the holidays. So why not roll both into one epic event? Host a gingerbread house decorating party that promises fun, laughter, and a sprinkle (or two) of friendly competition. 

Set up stations with crisp gingerbread panels, bowls brimming with colorful candies, rich icing, and of course, those traditional gumdrops. Once the masterpieces are complete, create a special display area where everyone can admire each creation, capturing the essence of the holiday season in an edible art form. 

And for the brave? Maybe even a taste-test challenge!

Create a Winter Wonderland!

The holiday season — it’s that magical time of the year when every little detail, from the twinkling lights to the joyful laughter, comes together to create unforgettable memories. At FUNBOY, we’re all about those moments— the spontaneous, the spirited, and the purely delightful. These party ideas aren't just about celebrating a season; they’re about celebrating the connections we share. 

Whether it's racing along in one of our inflatable sleds or cozying up for a gingerbread contest by the fire, life is about those shared moments of joy. Here's to crafting not just a party but a feeling, an aesthetic, and a memory. 

Dive in, have fun, and let the holiday magic take over — cheers to the most wonderful time of the year!

Sources:

A Brief History of The Ugly Christmas Sweater | Goodwill

The Human Sweet Tooth | PMC

Cultural Traditions: A Holiday Celebration - Norman Rockwell Museum | The Home for American Illustration

The Digital Age | Digital Sociology


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