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 maybe a not-so-funny Uncle Bob, 'tis the season to try something new and maybe even start a tradition. Since it's prime time to be celebrating a season that is already big on decorations, the only expenses incurred will be for movies and snacks, and possibly some added ambiance such as candles and music.
Invitations
The guest list is key. This is a party that should be hosted outside of the usual family gatherings so hosts shouldn'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 including the details in a holiday greeting card will suffice? Simply print some mailing labels with all of the pertinent information like place, time and location and adhere to the inside of the card. Most friends are more than happy to bring a dish to pass, so the request, including what type of appetizer or beverage they can provide, should always be included in the invitation as well.
SnacksThis is a movie night, so scale is truly up to the host or hostess. 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! The preparation method will need to be considered during the planning process to allow for time. 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 the guests, hosts should stick to the traditional method. Allowing ample time to pop the corn is important, as a host doesn't want to be stuck in the kitchen while their guests are mingling. For a fun holiday twist, some red and green M&Ms will add fantastic color and a sweet crunch. Mini portions served up in brown paper lunch bags, adorned with a small gift wrapping bow, add a little touch of holiday cheer.
- Movie theaters always offer something for the sweet tooth, but there is really no need to spend the day baking. Any extra holiday candy or cookies from family or work functions or even some goods that may have been received as a gift, will make perfect fare for hungry guests. Provide something deliciously homemade, like chocolate covered peanuts. Melt about a pound of milk chocolate 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 two jars of dry roasted peanuts. Any nut will do, but the salty flavor of the dry roasted variety is pretty amazing with the sweet chocolate. Take a spoon and scoop out onto a baking sheet in small clusters, and chill until the chocolate sets. Serving the clusters in festive mini cupcake papers will add a touch of the holidays.
- Nothing completes a holiday gathering like having something to wash all of these treats down, so pick something especially festive, like hot apple cider. Seasonal wines, such as mulled Christmas wines, are often made with apples, nutmeg and cinnamon, and are perfect for an adult crowd. Pour into a crock pot and set on low, just to warm through and ladle into wine glasses. If the wine is too hot, the alcohol will evaporate.
Movies
The sky is the limit here, but keeping the audience in mind will make for a better experience for everyone. 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 adult guests. National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation is a great choice for a group who loves a good laugh. If there will be time before viewing the movies, allow guests to mingle and fill their plates to the tune of the soundtrack to whatever movie they'll be viewing for instant holiday ambiance. Check online for free downloads!
Keep things fun by encouraging guests to wear the most obnoxious Christmas sweater they can find. Goodwill is a great place to purchase a loud sweater, and not only will everyone be supporting a good cause, but they won't have to spend a lot of money on something they'll likely never wear again.
Be sure to provide lots of cozy blankets for 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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