KEENE, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) The holiday season is a time of joy, togetherness, and—if you’re the host—a dash of extra pressure. Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukkah, or a festive New Year’s Eve party, there are a few hosting tricks that can help ensure your event goes smoothly and remains a happy memory for everyone. Here are some essential tips for holiday hosting, covering everything from preparation and décor to food and entertainment.

1. Plan and Prepare in Advance

The most successful holiday gatherings start with good planning. Begin by making a list of the essentials:

  • Guest List: Know how many people you’ll be hosting and check in on any dietary restrictions or special needs.
  • Theme and Menu: Decide on the style and theme of your event. Will it be a formal dinner, casual buffet, or potluck? For a larger gathering, make a menu and shopping list to cover every course, from appetizers to dessert.
  • Schedule for Cooking and Cleaning: Identify dishes you can make ahead of time to minimize last-minute stress. Consider cleaning the main areas (kitchen, living room, guest bathroom) a few days before the event, and do a final touch-up the day before.

2. Set the Mood with Thoughtful Décor

Holiday décor can set the tone for your gathering, creating a warm, inviting ambiance.

  • Entryway and First Impressions: Start with a welcoming touch at the entry, like a wreath on the door or string lights. Inside, a simple but festive centerpiece in the entryway or on the table can make a big impact.
  • Choose a Color Scheme: Use a cohesive color palette for table settings, napkins, and other décor to make your space look intentional and put-together.

3. Create a Flexible, Balanced Menu

Food is the centerpiece of most holiday gatherings. To simplify things, aim for a balanced menu that caters to a variety of tastes.

  • Appetizers to Keep Guests Satisfied: Offer a few easy appetizers for guests to nibble on as they arrive. Cheese boards, charcuterie, or a seasonal dip are crowd-pleasers.
  • Balance Between Homemade and Store-Bought: Don’t feel pressured to make every dish from scratch. Incorporate quality store-bought items, like artisanal bread or a dessert, to save yourself time and effort.
  • Offer Dietary Options: Make sure you have a few vegetarian, gluten-free, or other dietary options to accommodate all guests.

4. Organize a Self-Serve Drink Station

A self-serve drink station is a thoughtful addition that frees up your time and allows guests to help themselves.

  • Hot and Cold Beverages: Offer a mix of hot and cold beverages. Set up a hot chocolate or mulled cider station along with wine, beer, and a few holiday-inspired cocktails.
  • Keep the Essentials Handy: Include plenty of cups, stirrers, napkins, and ice.
  • Non-Alcoholic Options: Remember to have options for those who prefer non-alcoholic drinks, like sparkling water, sodas, or mocktails.

5. Set the tone with Music

  • Music Playlist: Put together a holiday music playlist that matches the tone of your gathering. Soft instrumental music works well during meals, while upbeat tunes can be perfect for mingling.

6. Prepare for the Unexpected

Even with the best-laid plans, unexpected hiccups may happen. Here are a few tricks for handling them gracefully:

  • Have a Back-Up Plan: Prepare an extra dish or two in case you end up with more guests than expected, or in case something doesn’t turn out as planned.
  • Emergency Essentials: Keep a few essentials like stain remover, a first-aid kit, and extra seating options within reach.
  • Stay Flexible: If you notice that your guests are more interested in chatting than following your planned schedule, feel free to adjust and go with the flow. After all, the goal is for everyone, including you, to enjoy the time together.

7. Make Clean-Up Easy

After a successful holiday gathering, it’s natural to feel a bit drained, but cleaning up can be manageable with a few smart tricks.

  • Clean As You Go: Try to clean a little throughout the night so the mess doesn’t pile up. Clear dishes and glasses during lulls in conversation, and rinse pots and pans when you have a moment.
  • Enlist Help: Many guests are happy to pitch in if you ask. You can assign small tasks like putting away leftovers, collecting dishes, or packing up dessert.
  • Have a Plan for Leftovers: If you have extra food, have take-out containers on hand for guests to bring home leftovers. This reduces food waste and keeps your fridge from getting too full.

Wrapping Up: Enjoy the Moment

Remember, the most important part of hosting is sharing quality time with loved ones. Things don’t have to be perfect, and guests are usually more focused on the joy of being together than on the details. Focus on creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere, and enjoy the celebration alongside your guests.

With a bit of planning, a flexible attitude, and some creative touches, your holiday hosting experience can be both memorable and enjoyable for everyone involved—including you!