Festive cheer: Family-friendly Christmas party ideas

Mums Tips

Party tips

Published on Friday, 22 November 2019 13:01

Last Updated on 22 November 2019

Monica Costa

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The most wonderful time of the year will soon be upon us, so it’s time to start planning the Christmas party and festivities to make the most of the build up to the big day with food, family and get-togethers. Whether it’s cosy days in with the family or a big festive gathering to bring everyone together, there are party ideas for every type of home and budget.

Festive games

Games are perfect for this time of year, especially if the weather is icy and gloomy, and are guaranteed to entertain the children for hours. Board games are a great idea for the whole family to get involved in and are a subtle way to avoid phones and screens, and spend some quality time together as a family. Festive games such as Santa Limbo and ‘pin the nose on the Rudolph’ are just some of many festive slants on ordinary games that will get you into the Christmas spirit and get the children excited for Christmas Day.

Marquee extravaganza

If you’re organising the party of the year for your friends and family, it’s important to pull out all the stops to make it a night to remember. As it’s often the only time of year that everyone gets together, make sure there’s plenty to entertain the little ones as well as adults, with Christmas music to dance to and toys to keep the children entertained while the adults socialise and pop the fizz! Expand your party space with an outdoor marquee over patio doors from Quickslide leading from your kitchen or living area for plenty of socialising space. Buffet food, festive lights and an essential Christmas playlist are bound to keep everyone happy and entertained until the early hours.

Intimate family gathering

For a smaller gathering, a warm, home-cooked dinner followed by a film and some nibbles is many people’s idea of heaven. But if you want to avoid cooking? A finger food platter and a selection of drinks like mulled wine and hot chocolate will be sure to warm up the whole family. Make sure your social area is cosy and warm with candles, twinkly lights and festive decorations (even presents!) for when your guests come over to make your home resemble Santa’s grotto.

Top tip: if you have a real wood fire, this is the perfect time to light it to add an extra Christmassy feel to the atmosphere that your guests will appreciate.

Activities with the kids

If you’re looking for a fun afternoon just you and the kids, festive activities are perfect to allow bonding time as well as a whole lot of fun and excitement. For a festive treat, bake Christmas cookies in the shape of trees or snowmen for a sweet treat, and decorate with icing and chocolate pieces. If you don’t have baking equipment, buy a ‘build a gingerbread house’ pack from your local supermarket to build, decorate and enjoy.

For a more chilled out afternoon, hot chocolate making with marshmallows followed by a classic Christmas film like The Grinch or Elf under a blanket is a great way to snuggle up with the kids and get into the festive spirit.

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