Host a Christmas Movie Party
Break from the Norm with This Best Idea for a Holiday Gathering
Nov 7, 2009
It's time to think outside the (gift) box. If Christmas parties have always been a boring affair involving funny fruit cake and your not-so-funny Uncle Bob, 'tis the season to try something new and maybe even start a tradition. Since you'll be celebrating a season that you likely already decorate for, the only expenses you'll have to incur will be for movies and snacks.
Invitations
The guest list is key. This is a party you should be hosting outside of your usual family gatherings so don't succumb to that pang of guilt for not inviting Grandma and Grandpa (or Uncle Bob). This is a party for friends, or maybe for the children and their friends.
Already sending out holiday cards? Why spend additional money money on invitations and postage when you can just include the details in the greeting cards going out to your guests? Simply print some mailing labels with all of the pertinent information like place, time and location and adhere to the inside of the card. If your circle of friends are the type that are always willing to bring a dish to pass, be sure to include that request as well.
SnacksThis is a movie night so how big or small you want to go with food is really up to you. Keeping things portable so that they can be enjoyed in front of the television is a good idea so the standard movie going fare is a good place to start.
- Popcorn is a must. It's an essential part of the movie experience! Your popcorn preparation method is something you'll need to take into consideration when planning for your party. Popping corn the traditional way over a stove using a little bit of oil is cost effective but a little more time consuming. Microwave popcorn is fast and comes in so many varieties and flavors that having something everyone will love will be a snap. There are some health concerns regarding microwave popcorn and chemicals leaching from the bags so if that is an issue for you or your guests, stick to the traditional method, just be sure to give yourself time to pop. Toss in some red and green M&Ms for a holiday twist. Serve up in brown paper lunch bags. Stick a small gift wrapping bow to the side for some added holiday cheer.
- Movie theaters always offer something for the sweet tooth. No need to spend the day baking. If you have any extra holiday candy or cookies from family or work functions or even some goods that you received as a gift, feel free to combine what you have and serve it up to your guests. If you want to provide something deliciously homemade, try some chocolate covered peanuts. Take about a pound of milk chocolate and melt over a double boiler. A double boiler is just a pot with a small amount of water brought to a simmer, with a bowl set over the top. The steam and heat from the simmering water will slowly melt the chocolate. Once the chocolate is melted, remove from the heat and stir in a jar or two of dry roasted peanuts. You can use any nut you like but the salty flavor of the dry roasted peanuts is pretty amazing with the chocolate. Take a spoon and scoop out onto a baking sheet in small clusters and chill until the chocolate sets.
- You'll want to serve something to wash all of these treats down so pick something especially festive, like hot apple cider. If you are catering to an adult crowd, try some seasonal wine served warmed. Mulled Christmas wines are often made with apples, nutmeg and cinnamon. They are a sweet wine that when served warm become something really special.
Movies
The sky is the limit here, just keep your audience in mind when choosing a movie or two. Elf or Home Alone is great for adults and children alike. The Polar Express will captivate young hearts while White Christmas will spark nostalgia in your adult guests. National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation is a great choice for a group who loves a good laugh. If you plan on having time before viewing the movie for your guests to mingle and fill their plates, pop in the soundtrack to whatever movie you'll be showing for instant holiday ambiance. Check online for free downloads!
Keep things fun by encouraging your guests to wear the most obnoxious Christmas sweater they can find. Goodwill is a great place to purchase a loud sweater, and not only are you supporting a good cause but you won't have to spend a lot of money on something you'll likely never wear again.
Be sure to provide lots of cozy blankets for your guests. Light some pine or apple scented candles, dim the lights and settle in for what is sure to become a new holiday tradition.
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