With the festive season well and truly upon us, it’s finally acceptable to talk about the ‘C’ word – Christmas! However, with the day’s being counted down until Father Christmas makes his way down the chimney to deliver the presents under the tree, it’s time to get thinking about throwing a Christmas party that brings loved ones together to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year.

Whether you want to host a bash which is filled with mulled wine and mince pies, or hot chocolates and candy canes, these party ideas will provide you with plenty of festive inspiration – plus, they don’t require a budget to rival a royal wedding either.

1. Christmas Crafternoon

With many of us digging out our sewing machines and glue guns to get crafty this Christmas season, why not make a ‘do’ of it and bring together some of your crafting buddies for an afternoon where you can create some seasonal treats.

Why not try making one of the below for your afternoon:

• 12 Days of Christmas Advent Calendar
• Christmas Wreath
• DIY Wrapping Paper
• Pompom Pinecone Decorations
• Christmas Cards
• Cookie Tree Ornaments
• Homemade Gifts – Chutneys, Fudge and Chocolates
• Christmas Candle Holders

If you plan on making the same items then purchase the items in advance that you need and get everyone to pay a contribution for the materials that they use, or you could get everyone to bring along their own mini project to make during the party.

You’ll of course want plenty of Christmassy treats to keep you going so stock up on lots of mince pies, sausage rolls and ensure the pot of tea is constantly topped up.

2. Christmas Costume Party

This is one for the children, because what little ones don’t love the chance to dress up? Whether they come dressed as a candy cane, bauble, reindeer, elf or Santa Claus is up to them – but a Christmas-themed costume is mandatory. We doubt you’ll see any brussel sprouts costumes though!

As this is a party for children stock up on novelty festive party plates and cups to avoid any unwanted damage to china dinnerware – plus, they’ll love the idea of drinking out of a cup with reindeer antlers or a plate shaped like Santa.

Keep the party food flowing and stock up on lots of sweeties (it is the season of indulgence after all!). You can shop our Christmas party package here.

3. An Evening of Festive Cocktails

Christmas drink do not always need to mean a pan of mulled wine on the hob and a Baileys you know, so why not host an evening where only festive cocktails are to be consumed. This one is strictly adults only, but you could include a mocktail option for those who don’t drink or for little ones.

Keep Michael Bublé and Mariah Carey playing in the background and enjoy an evening sampling some of the best festive tipples, alongside some Christmassy canapés such as smoked salmon and cream cheese.

You could ask each guest to bring along their signature seasonal cocktail recipe to make for the rest of your guests so that you can try out some new cocktails. We recommend making the below:

• Christmas Negroni – with festive infused gin
• Winter Sidecar – using a cinnamon around the rim and clementine juice
• Gingerbread Latte Martini
• Cranberry Gin Cocktail
• Prosecco Punch – with a sprig of rosemary and cranberries
• Eggnog – with brandy, bourbon or rum

4. Movie Marathon

Hands up if you can quote Elf word for word? Yes, us too, but there are some films which you simply have to watch each year, which is why a movie marathon is the perfect time to curl up on the sofa and watch some of your favourites.

With a bowl of popcorn and a stash of sweets, a day spent in Christmas pyjamas with the classics on in the background is a day well spent. Some of our favourites include Home Alone, Love Actually, Arthur Christmas, Miracle on 34^th Street and The Holiday.

5. Après-Ski

Everyone knows that one of the best parts of a ski trip is the après-ski, so why not throw a party that doesn’t involve racing down ski slopes, but does include the after-party fun. Plus, anything Nordic themed is trending right now, so you’ll be hosting a trending party too.

Keep the dress code casual in cosy knit wear and winter boots, and keep your guests warm with a log burning fire on the go and faux fur throws.

For the menu stick to hearty dishes that warm the soul stick to homemade soups, chili and beef bourguignon for main dishes and for something sweet, hot chocolates with whipped cream and marshmallows and cinnamon rolls are a must.