Are you ready to jingle all the way into the festive spirit and throw the most unforgettable Christmas party of 2020? As we bid farewell to this rollercoaster year, it's time to embrace the holiday cheer and create joyful memories with our loved ones. Whether you're hosting a small gathering or a virtual celebration, we've got the ultimate guide filled with tips and ideas to make your Christmas party shine brighter than Rudolph's red nose.

So grab a cup of hot cocoa, cozy up by the fire, and let's unwrap the secrets to throwing the ultimate Christmas 2020 party!

Planning the Perfect Christmas 2020 Party

Setting the Date and Time

When setting the date and time for your Christmas 2020 party, consider the availability of your guests and any other holiday commitments they may have. Weekends are generally ideal, allowing more people to attend without conflicting work schedules. Hosting the party in the early evening or on a weekend afternoon ensures that guests can still participate in other holiday activities. However, be mindful of potential conflicts with other popular events during the holiday season.

In general, choosing a date and time that maximizes attendance and allows guests to fully enjoy the festivities will contribute to a successful Christmas party.

Choosing the Right Venue

• Consider the size of your guest list and find a venue that can comfortably accommodate everyone while adhering to social distancing guidelines.
• Outdoor venues can provide a safer option for a Christmas 2020 party, allowing for more space and better airflow.
• Look for venues that have appropriate facilities and amenities for your planned activities, such as a dance floor or a cozy fireplace.
• Consider the location of the venue in terms of accessibility for your guests, especially if some may have to travel long distances.
• Take into account the atmosphere and ambiance you want to create for your party, whether it's a rustic cabin in the woods or a glamorous ballroom.
• Research local venues that align with your vision and budget, and don't forget to book in advance as popular venues tend to fill up quickly during the festive season.

Creating a Guest List

When creating a guest list for your Christmas 2020 party, consider the following tips:

1. Know your space: Assess the size of your venue to determine the maximum number of guests you can accommodate while maintaining social distancing measures.
2. Prioritize close connections: Invite family members, close friends, and loved ones who you want to celebrate the holiday season with.
3. Consider interests and dynamics: Ensure a harmonious atmosphere by inviting guests who will get along well and contribute to the festive ambiance.
4. Think about diversity: Aim for a mix of age ranges, backgrounds, and personalities to create a vibrant and inclusive gathering.

Remember, your guest list should reflect the atmosphere you want to create at your Christmas party, fostering joy and togetherness during this special time of the year.

Sending Invitations

Sending Invitations for Your Christmas 2020 Party:

• Start by creating a guest list to determine the number of people you'll be inviting.
• Use personalized digital invitations to save both time and paper. Platforms like Evite or Paperless Post offer festive templates.
• Include all the necessary information in the invitation, such as the date, time, location, and any specific dress code or theme.
• Consider adding a RSVP deadline to ensure you have an accurate headcount for your party preparations.
• Follow up with a reminder closer to the date, to make sure guests don't forget about your Christmas 2020 party.
• Encourage guests to respond by including a simple and convenient RSVP option, like a reply email or a phone number to call.

Christmas 2020 Party Theme Ideas

Traditional Christmas Theme

One popular theme for a Christmas 2020 party is the traditional Christmas theme. This theme includes classic elements that evoke a sense of nostalgia and holiday cheer. Deck the halls with green and red decorations, hang stockings by the fireplace, and incorporate iconic symbols like Santa Claus and snowflakes. Serve traditional holiday dishes like roast turkey, mashed potatoes, and pumpkin pie. Play timeless Christmas carols in the background to create a festive atmosphere.

Encourage guests towear their favorite ugly Christmas sweaters and participate in fun activities like a gift exchange or holiday trivia. This theme brings the nostalgia of past Christmases while still creating a joyful and memorable event.

Winter Wonderland Theme

Transform your Christmas 2020 party into a magical winter wonderland with a themed décor that will leave your guests in awe. Start by adorning the venue with shimmering snowflakes, icicle lights, and faux snow to create a whimsical atmosphere. Use white and silver accents throughout, from table linens to centerpieces, to evoke a snowy landscape. Add cozy touches like faux fur blankets and pillows on seating areas. Enhance the ambiance with a playlist of classic winter songs.

For an interactive element, set up a DIY hot chocolate bar with various toppings and flavors. Remember to capture the memories with a designated photo area featuring snowy backdrops and props.

Ugly Sweater Party Theme

One fun and popular theme for a Christmas 2020 party is the Ugly Sweater Party. Encourage your guests to embrace the tackiest, most over-the-top holiday sweaters they can find. It's a light-hearted and festive way to celebrate the season while adding a touch of humor. You can even turn it into a contest by awarding prizes for the ugliest sweater or the most creatively styled one. Provide some DIY sweater decorating supplies to spark creativity and ensure everyone has a chance to participate. This theme creates a relaxed and playful atmosphere that will have everyone smiling and enjoying the holiday spirit.

Pajama Party Theme

For a cozy and relaxed atmosphere at your Christmas 2020 party, consider hosting a Pajama Party theme. Encourage your guests to come wearing their comfiest pajamas and slippers. Decorate the space with soft blankets and fairy lights to create a warm ambiance. Set up a DIY hot chocolate bar with various toppings and flavors for everyone to enjoy. Plan activities like a holiday movie marathon or a pajama fashion show for some lighthearted entertainment.

This theme allows guests to unwind and enjoy the festivities in ultimate comfort.

Decorating for a Christmas 2020 Party

Christmas Trees and Lights

Decorating with Christmas trees and lights is an important aspect when planning a Christmas 2020 party. Here are some practical ideas to enhance the festive atmosphere:

• Choose an appropriately sized tree that fits the space and complements the theme of your party.
• Opt for eco-friendly LED lights, which not only save energy but also provide a bright and vibrant glow.
• Use a mix of ornaments, such as traditional baubles, snowflakes, or themed decorations, to add visual interest to the tree.
• Consider incorporating fairy lights or string lights to create a cozy and magical ambiance in the party area.
• Don't limit yourself to just one tree; smaller tabletop trees or garlands can be placed throughout the venue for added charm.
• Ensure the tree and lights are safely secured to prevent accidents and create a worry-free environment for your guests.

Festive Table Settings

Festive table settings can greatly enhance the ambiance of your Christmas 2020 party. Opt for a color palette that complements the holiday spirit, such as red, green, gold, or silver. Incorporate thematic elements like mini ornaments, pinecones, or holiday-themed place cards to add a festive touch. Consider using elegant table linens or festive table runners to elevate the look.

Lighting plays a crucial role in creating a warm and inviting atmosphere, so use candles or string lights as part of your table decor. Remember to have enough seating and space for everyone to comfortably enjoy their meal together.

Holiday Centerpieces and Decorations

Holiday centerpieces and decorations are vital for creating a festive ambiance at your Christmas 2020 party. Beautifully arranged centerpieces can serve as eye-catching focal points on dining tables or mantels, adding a touch of elegance to the overall decor. Incorporate elements like evergreen branches, pinecones, berries, and ornaments to bring the holiday spirit to life. Consider using candles or fairy lights to create a warm and cozy atmosphere.

Get creative and personalize your centerpieces by incorporating unique elements, such as mini Christmas village scenes or DIY crafts that match the party theme. Remember, well-designed centerpieces can enhance the visual appeal of your Christmas 2020 party and leave a lasting impression on your guests.

DIY Christmas Crafts

DIY Christmas crafts add a festive touch to your Christmas 2020 party. Get creative with handmade decorations and personalized ornaments. Make your own wreaths using greenery and ribbons, or try crafting paper snowflakes to hang from the ceiling. Encourage guests to participate by setting up a craft station with supplies for creating holiday-themed cards or handmade gifts.

DIY crafts not only add a personal touch to your decorations, but they also provide an engaging activity for guests to enjoy during the party. Let the holiday spirit inspire your creativity and make your Christmas 2020 party a memorable one.

Food and Drink Ideas for Your Christmas 2020 Party

Classic Christmas Dishes

When it comes to classic Christmas dishes for your Christmas 2020 party, consider serving traditional favorites that evoke the holiday spirit. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Roast turkey or ham as the centerpiece of the meal.
• Mashed potatoes with a creamy texture and savory flavor.
• Green bean casserole topped with crispy fried onions.
• Stuffing made with a blend of herbs, bread, and other ingredients.
• Cranberry sauce to add a tangy and sweet element to the meal.
• Glazed carrots or roasted Brussels sprouts as delicious vegetable sides.
• Warm dinner rolls or freshly baked bread to accompany the meal.

By incorporating these classic dishes, you can create a festive and memorable dining experience for your guests at the Christmas 2020 party.

Holiday Cocktails and Mocktails

When planning your Christmas 2020 party, don't forget to include a selection of holiday cocktails and mocktails to impress your guests. These festive beverages add a touch of merriment to any celebration. Get creative with flavors by incorporating seasonal ingredients like cranberry, cinnamon, and peppermint. Serve classic favorites like eggnog, mulled wine, or hot apple cider for a traditional touch.

For those who prefer non-alcoholic options, offer refreshing mocktails such as sparkling cranberry spritzers or virgin mojitos. Remember to garnish your drinks with festive elements like candy canes or a sprinkle of edible glitter to make them visually appealing. Cheers to a memorable Christmas party!

Christmas Desserts and Treats

When it comes to a Christmas 2020 party, the desserts and treats you serve can be the highlight of the event. Think of classic favorites like gingerbread cookies, peppermint bark, and eggnog-flavored cupcakes. You can also get creative and offer themed desserts like Santa hat brownies or Christmas tree-shaped sugar cookies. Don't forget to include a variety of options to cater to different preferences and dietary restrictions, such as gluten-free or vegan treats.

Consider setting up a festive dessert table with a mix of homemade goodies and store-bought delights for convenience. Remember, presentation matters, so decorate with sprinkles, edible glitter, and festive toppings to add that extra touch of holiday cheer.

Setting Up a Hot Chocolate Bar

Setting up a hot chocolate bar is a delightful addition to your Christmas 2020 party. Offer a variety of toppings like marshmallows, whipped cream, caramel syrup, and candy canes. Provide different types of hot chocolate, such as classic, peppermint, and white chocolate. Don't forget to offer non-dairy options like almond or oat milk. Decorate the bar with festive signage and cozy winter-themed decorations.

Guests can customize their own hot chocolate creations and enjoy the warmth and sweetness of the holiday season. It's a simple yet enjoyable way to spread holiday cheer at your party.

Entertainment and Activities

Christmas Movie Marathon

A Christmas movie marathon is a must-have activity for your Christmas 2020 party. It adds a cozy and nostalgic ambiance, bringing everyone together to enjoy classic holiday films. Create a comfortable viewing space with pillows, blankets, and dim lighting. Set up a large screen or projector for optimal viewing. Choose a mix of well-loved classics and newer releases to cater to different tastes. Consider movies like "Home Alone," "Love Actually," and "Elf.

" Encourage guests to bring their favorite holiday movie to share. Don't forget to provide popcorn and other snacks for the ultimate movie experience.

Gift Exchange or Secret Santa

Gift exchanges or Secret Santa activities can add an element of excitement and surprise to your Christmas 2020 party. It's a fun way for guests to exchange gifts and showcase their thoughtfulness. To host a successful gift exchange, set a budget and provide guidelines, such as a theme or specific types of gifts. Consider using a gift exchange generator or have guests draw names to keep things organized. You can also incorporate a game or activity to determine the order of gift selection.

Whether it's a White Elephant exchange or a traditional Secret Santa, this activity is sure to bring joy and create lasting memories for your guests.

Holiday Games and Trivia

Holiday games and trivia are a great way to keep your guests entertained at your Christmas 2020 party. Consider setting up a game station with classic Christmas-themed games like "Guess the Christmas Carol" or "Christmas Movie Trivia." You can also organize a holiday scavenger hunt where guests search for hidden ornaments or clues throughout the venue. Another fun idea is to create a DIY photo booth with festive props and a holiday-themed backdrop where guests can take memorable pictures.

Theseinteractive activities will add an extra element of fun and create lasting memories for everyone attending.

DIY Photo Booth

Create a festive atmosphere at your Christmas 2020 party with a DIY photo booth. It's a fun activity that allows your guests to capture memorable moments. Set up a designated area with props like Santa hats, reindeer antlers, and holiday-themed signs. Use a plain backdrop or hang a sparkly curtain for a festive touch. Provide a camera or encourage guests to use their smartphones for photos. Add some simple decorations like string lights or garlands to enhance the ambience.

Your guests will enjoy posing and snapping pictures, creating lasting memories of your Christmas party.

Safety Precautions for a Christmas 2020 Party

COVID-19 Guidelines and Social Distancing Measures

• Follow local government guidelines and regulations regarding gatherings and social distancing.
• Opt for outdoor venues or well-ventilated spaces to minimize the risk of transmission.
• Encourage guests to wear masks and provide hand sanitizers throughout the venue.
• Arrange seating areas with appropriate distance between guests to maintain social distancing.
• Consider virtual or hybrid options to include those unable to attend in person.
• Provide individual servings or pre-packaged food and drinks to minimize contact.
• Avoid activities that involve close contact and promote ones that allow for physical distancing, such as outdoor games or virtual activities.
• Regularly sanitize high-touch surfaces and encourage frequent handwashing.
• Communicate the importance of adhering to guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable Christmas 2020 party experience.

Providing Hand Sanitizers and Masks

• To prioritize the safety and well-being of your guests, make sure to have ample hand sanitizers and masks available throughout the party venue.
• Set up multiple sanitizing stations in high-traffic areas, such as near the entrance, food and drink stations, and restrooms.
• Consider providing individually packaged masks for each guest as a thoughtful gesture and a reminder to adhere to safety protocols.
• Encourage guests to use hand sanitizers regularly and wear masks when not actively eating or drinking.
• By taking these precautions, you can create a festive and enjoyable Christmas 2020 party while also promoting a safe and healthy environment for everyone involved.

Encouraging Outdoor Activities

• Take advantage of the festive winter season and host your Christmas 2020 party outdoors, weather permitting.
• Set up a cozy bonfire with warm blankets and marshmallow roasting for a cozy and festive atmosphere.
• Organize fun outdoor games like a snowball toss or a winter scavenger hunt to keep guests entertained and active.
• Arrange a Christmas-themed outdoor movie night, complete with blankets, hot cocoa, and a projector for a memorable experience.
• Decorate the outdoor space with twinkling lights, fairy ornaments, and a Christmas tree to create a magical ambiance.
• Ensure you have outdoor heaters or fire pits to keep guests warm during the chilly weather.
• Provide guests with hand warmers and festive masks to stay comfortable and follow safety guidelines.

Limiting the Number of Guests

Limiting the number of guests at your Christmas 2020 party is crucial to prioritize safety and adhere to social distancing guidelines. By keeping the gathering small, you can create a more intimate and controlled environment. Consider inviting only close family and friends who have been following similar health precautions. Smaller guest lists also allow for better planning, ensuring everyone can comfortably enjoy the festivities without overcrowding.

Remember, a cozy celebration with a few loved ones can still be incredibly special, filled with heartfelt conversations, laughter, and cherished memories.

Key takeaways

Are you ready to throw the ultimate Christmas party in 2020? Here are some tips and ideas to make your celebration unforgettable.

First, set the mood by creating a festive atmosphere with decorations, such as strings of lights, wreaths, and a beautifully decorated tree.

Next, plan engaging activities and games that will keep your guests entertained throughout the evening. Consider hosting a Secret Santa gift exchange or organizing a holiday-themed trivia game. Don't forget to prepare a delicious spread of food and drinks, including traditional Christmas dishes and festive cocktails. To add a personal touch, create handmade holiday favors for your guests to take home.

Finally, don't stress! Remember that the most important thing is to enjoy the company of your loved ones and spread holiday cheer.