The holiday break is finally here – that magical time when schedules clear, out-of-town friends return home, and everyone’s looking for ways to gather and celebrate. But instead of defaulting to the usual holiday movie marathon, why not try something that gets everyone interacting and creating memories together?
We’ve curated six unique activities that strike the perfect balance between entertainment and relaxation, guaranteed to bring your group closer during this festive season.
From solving mysteries to creating culinary masterpieces, these ideas will transform your typical get-together into an unforgettable holiday experience.
1. Host a Murder Mystery Dinner Party
Want to kick off your holiday hosting with a bang? A murder mystery game transforms your dinner party into an evening of intrigue and laughter. Over the years, I’ve tried several different kits, and while some brands were fun, My Mystery Kit quickly became my favorite. Why? Because it lets you customize the characters and their personalities to perfectly match your guest list.
For example, you can tailor a character’s backstory to include a previous occupation that turns into a hilarious inside joke for your group, or weave in someone’s favorite music artist as a quirky trait. These little personal touches not only make the experience feel more connected and meaningful but also ensure everyone gets fully immersed in their roles.
Even better, My Mystery Kit’s downloadable murder mystery games include everything you need for a seamless experience, from detailed character descriptions to dramatic plot twists. The best part? You can tie the mystery to your holiday theme. Picture your guests trying to crack the case over festive drinks and seasonal treats—it’s the perfect recipe for an unforgettable evening where even shy participants can shine.
2. Create a Holiday Cookie Decorating Competition
Take the traditional cookie decorating activity to the next level by turning it into a friendly competition. Set up stations with various frostings, sprinkles, and edible decorations. Assign different categories like “Most Creative,” “Best Traditional Design,” and “Most Likely to Be Featured in a Baking Show.”
Have everyone vote anonymously for their favorites in each category, excluding their own creations. Why I love this idea so much? Everyone gets to enjoy eating their masterpieces afterward. This activity works wonderfully for mixed age groups and can become an annual tradition.
3. Organize a Cozy Game Night Tournament
Design a tournament that spans several classic board games or card games, but with a twist. Create a “championship belt” that moves between winners of different games throughout the evening. Set up multiple gaming stations with different types of games – from strategic board games to quick-paced card games.
Add some holiday flair by incorporating seasonal snacks and themed drinks for each gaming station. Consider games like Catan, Ticket to Ride, or classic card games that encourage conversation and friendly competition.
4. Plan a DIY Hot Chocolate Bar Experience
Elevate the simple act of drinking hot chocolate into an interactive social event. Set up a bar with different types of chocolate (milk, dark, white), various toppings (marshmallows, whipped cream, candy canes), and flavor enhancers (peppermint, caramel, cinnamon). Include both alcoholic and non-alcoholic mix-ins for adults.
Have everyone create their perfect cup and hold a tasting where each person presents their creation. Pair this with a cozy movie screening or storytelling session for the perfect winter evening.
5. Host a Global Holiday Traditions Potluck
Create an evening centered around learning about and celebrating holiday traditions from around the world. Ask each guest to bring a dish from a different culture’s holiday celebration, along with a short story about the tradition behind it.
Set up a world map where people can pin the origin of their dish and create small cards explaining each tradition. This not only provides great conversation starters but also introduces everyone to new flavors and customs they might want to incorporate into their own celebrations.
6. Arrange a Creative Gift Wrap Workshop
Instead of everyone wrapping gifts alone, turn it into a social event. Set up stations with different wrapping papers, ribbons, and decorative elements. Share techniques for tackling awkwardly shaped gifts or creating elegant bow designs.
Include some challenging objects for people to practice with, and hold friendly competitions for categories like “Most Creative Use of Materials” or “Most Elegant Design.” This practical activity helps everyone get their holiday wrapping done while enjoying company and perhaps learning new skills.
Tips for Success
No matter which activity you choose, consider these tips to make your gathering more enjoyable:
- Send invitations well in advance, as calendars fill up quickly during the holidays
- Have backup plans for weather-dependent activities
- Consider dietary restrictions and preferences when planning food-related events
- Create a playlist of holiday music that won’t overwhelm conversation
- Take photos to capture the memories, but designate specific photo moments so people can stay present in the activity
- Keep some activities in reserve in case energy levels dip or you need to pivot
Remember, the key to a successful holiday gathering is creating an atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable and included. These activities are designed to bring people together, encourage conversation, and create memories that last long after the holiday season ends.
Whether you choose one activity or combine several into a longer event, the focus should be on enjoying time together and embracing the festive spirit of the season. Happy holidays!
