Planning a Christmas Party can be as joyful – and stressful – as the season itself. Whether you’re organising a festive do for friends, family, or colleagues, choosing the right concept can make or break the experience. Don’t worry – we’re here to help with 30 unforgettable Christmas party ideas to help you create an event your guests will be gushing about right into the New Year!
How to Plan a Memorable Christmas Party
Everyone wants to throw an unforgettable (and thoughtful!) Christmas party – whether you’re going all out or looking to plan a sustainable Christmas party, it’s important to focus on the overall experience. Think beyond just food and drink, consider the ambience, activities and personal touches that will surprise and delight your guests. As they say, sometimes the biggest gifts come in the smallest packages and it’s all about the little details here! If you’re still choosing a location, explore some of our favourite Christmas dinner venues in London for the perfect festive backdrop.
Key elements to consider:
Setting a theme: A strong theme gives your party a cohesive feel and makes it easier to decide on decorations, food, and dress code. From Winter Wonderlands to retro ski lodges, the options are limitless!
Guest list and invites: Tailor the invites to your theme and make RSVPs easy.
Food and drink: Match your menu to your theme. Don’t forget the classics, mulled wine, mince pies and eggnog cocktails!
Decorations and ambience: Lighting, music and scent go a long way in creating a festive atmosphere.
Entertainment and games: Think about interactive elements and fun Christmas party entertainment ideas like gift exchanges, secret Santa, holiday-themed quizzes or even a live band of Santas!
Corporate Celebrations: Hosting for your team? Discover smart and stylish ways to plan a corporate Christmas party that will leave a lasting impression.
30 Creative Christmas Party Ideas
Secret Santa Gift Exchange
A crowd favourite! Set a budget, draw names, and get everyone involved in the fun of surprise gifting and questionable decisions.
Ugly Christmas Jumper Party
Encourage guests to wear their most outrageous holiday knits – bonus points for light up, music playing or DIY sweaters.
Christmas Murder Mystery
Turn your party into a festive whodunit with themed characters (looking at you, Rudolph) and dramatic flair.
Festive Karaoke Night
A chance to really get your Maria Carey on – it’s all fair game.
Winter Wonderland Ball
Something a little grander. Go all out with white décor, icy cocktails, and frosty dress code.
Christmas Around the World
Feature dishes, décor, and traditions from global holiday celebrations to discover who truly does Christmas the best!
DIY Decoration Station
Let guests cover themselves with red, gold, and green sparkles and sprinkles as they craft something special to take home.
Mulled Wine & Mistletoe Tasting
Set up stations for different warm festive drinks with complementary festive snacks.
Christmas Movie Marathon
The battle of Home Alone vs ELF – Create a cosy lounge with popcorn, blankets, and a great holiday film line up.
Festive Afternoon Tea
Think cranberry scones, turkey finger sandwiches and cinnamon-spiced tea.
Cookie Decorating Party
Provide plain cookies, icing, sprinkles, and let creativity run wild.
Christmas Pub Quiz
Add some friendly competition with rounds on holiday music, films, and trivia.
Polar Express Pyjama Party
A family favourite. Hot chocolate encouraged!
Holiday Escape Room
Create puzzles and clues with a North Pole twist.
Christmas Cocktail Masterclass
Hire a mixologist or DIY your drink-making stations.
Festive Photo Booth
Stocked with props like Santa hats, elf ears or Rudolph’s red nose.
Santa’s Grotto Experience
Hire Santa (or be him!) and create a magical space for gifts and photos.
Christmas Bingo
Make it festive with themed prizes and cheeky holiday calls.
Charity Drive Party
Collect donations and celebrate with those less fortunate.
Snow Globe Soiree
Use lighting, plenty of glitter and clear domes to create a snow globe aesthetic.
Gingerbread House Contest
Provide supplies for a fun, edible challenge.
Silent Night Disco
Everyone grab a pair of headphones and dance the night away. – Great for mixed tastes and late-night fun.
Live Band or DJ
Elevate the energy with all the holiday classics and a dancefloor.
Office Talent Show
Let your team shine with their unknown, special talents (or possibly lack off!)
The Grinch Party
Flip the tradition and think green food, moody décor, and Grinch-theme games.
Holiday Scavenger Hunt
Swap Easter eggs for Candy canes, clues, and carols.
Wreath Workshop
Not just for elves! Create a workshop space that guests will love.
12 Days of Christmas Countdown Party
Each hour reveals a new mini event, activity or treat!
Retro Christmas Party
Go back in time with a 70s, 80s or 90s theme Christmas Party, complete with vintage décor and music.
Christmas Comedy Night
A festive twist, why not? Hire a local comedian or host a comedy open mic to add laughs to your Christmas cheer!
Christmas Party FAQs
How do you throw a fun adult Christmas Party?
Focus on interactive activities like cocktail making or games with festive music and a fun dress code.
How to host a good Christmas Party?
Create a warm atmosphere with plenty of good food, drinks, and thoughtful details.
How do you host an unforgettable Christmas Party?
Think about your guests’ experience from start to finish – theme, surprises, and personal touches all help.
What are good Christmas party themes?
The most popular Christmas party themes are Winter Wonderland, Santa’s Workshop, Christmas Movie Nights, and Global Festivities.
Summary
Christmas is the perfect time to get creative, celebrate and make memories that last long after the decorations come down. Whether you’re looking for inspiration for your next festive bash or new Christmas party ideas to make your work event pop, there’s something here for every crowd and budget.
Ready to plan your next celebration? Find your London Christmas venue or get in touch with eve for help planning the ultimate holiday party – your dream celebration awaits!