Unveiling 4 festive party themes

The holiday season is a festive time of year filled with plenty of opportunities to socialize with friends and family. Parties abound this time of year, and many people may find themselves hosting everything from intimate gatherings to large family dinners.

As people will likely attend many events in the weeks to come, savvy hosts and hostesses may want to set their occasions apart in various ways. One option, to provide a break from the standard traditions, is to pick an entertaining party theme that guests can get excited about. Consider these four unique themes when planning holiday parties.

1. Ornament exchange

Decorating the home is commonplace this time of year. Who couldn’t use a new trinket for the mantel or an ornament to adorn the tree? Ask all guests to bring a gift-wrapped ornament to the party. Then place numbers in a bowl, and have each guest draw a number; this is the order in which guests will then select an ornament. After the first guest’s selection, subsequent guests can choose a new ornament from the pile or “steal” one from those already picked. The guest who picked first then has one last chance to keep or steal an ornament at the end.

2. Tropical holiday

The weather outside may be frightful, but a tropical-island party can be utterly delightful. Give the event an island flair with fruity drinks, grilled kebabs, coconut desserts and steel-drum music.

3. Grinchy party

A party devoted to the Dr. Seuss character The Grinch can be a fun way to pass time together. While the holidays are supposed to be holly and jolly, a Grinch-themed party can put the emphasis on being a little bit more naughty than nice. And who doesn’t enjoy an ample serving of roast beast? Have guests come decked out in Grinch costumes or Grinch-emblazoned T-shirts or other items of clothing.

4. Christmas karaoke

Set up the karaoke machine, or utilize one of the services available online, and make sure guests are prepared to belt out their favorite holiday tunes — whether traditional carols or pop hits. A group of ladies can join together for The Waitresses’ “Christmas Wrapping,” or guests can try their hands at hitting the high notes of Mariah Carey’s ubiquitous “All I Want for Christmas Is You.” Chances are that serving some liquid courage will help guests loosen up and be more inclined to grab the microphone.