Tips For Throwing a Christmas Party on a Budget

Christmas can be a very expensive holiday. Between presents for friends and loved ones, as well as the inevitable social gatherings, it is easy to spend more than you have. At times, it is necessary to cut back. You may have certain traditions that you love, and that you want to keep, and that is fine. However, it is important to realize that you can have a fun Christmas party on a budget. The following information will help you do just that.

-Consider a potluck. You save a lot of money on food, and your guests have the benefit of sampling many different plates and styles. In addition, it cuts back on the amount of work you have to do prior to the party. All you need to worry about is the accessories, including what people will drink.

-Put the focus on cookies. Instead of having a full meal, ask your guests to cook up a batch of their favorite Christmas cookies. Also, make sure everyone brings a container so they can carry home a selection of the treats with them. It is a great way to socialize with one another, and there is not much work involved. Have a few appetizers and drinks on hand and give everyone the opportunity to talk and try cookies. Plus, no one heads home empty handed!

-Host a cheese and wine gathering. This idea is perfect for the host that wants something a bit more formal but does not have the money to pay for a large meal. If a guest asks to bring something with them, request that they come with a bottle of wine. That cuts down on your expenses and gives you the opportunity to try new things.

-Do you have a lot of friends and family members to purchase gifts for? Instead of going overboard, consider setting up a white elephant party this year. Each guest is asked to bring one gift that is suitable for any gender or age. Make sure to put a price limit on the gifts to keep things reasonable. There are also a few rules involved when it comes to this type of gathering. Draw numbers to see who chooses and opens the first present. Go in order from there. The second person is allowed to either take the gift that was opened first or to choose a new gift. If they take a gift, the person they take it from has another turn. At the end, everyone has a present. In addition, you save money because you do not have to worry about purchasing individual gifts for everyone you care about.

-If you love decorating your Christmas tree each year, put together a tree-trimming party. Ask people to come over and help you with the tree. Provide drinks and snacks, and everyone is sure to have a good time.

-Get in the spirit with a pizza party. That may sound a little odd, but hosting a pizza party is actually a lot of fun. Each guest can make the type of pizza they want. The ingredients are fairly cheap, and there is typically a lot of talking and laughter as the pies get made. Plus, pizza is a food that is almost universally loved.

Christmas parties do not have to be elaborate, expensive affairs. Use the tips above to host a fun party that your guests will remember until the next holiday season rolls around. After all, the point is simply to get together with the people you care most about and enjoy their company.