11 Festive Christmas Eve Party Ideas

4. Serve holiday Jell-O shots

Not a fan of eggnog? That’s okay. Make your own Jell-O shots using holiday-shaped molds to give your guests something festive to enjoy throughout the evening. You can also make classic holiday cocktails if you do not like Jell-O. Try using spiced rum, cider, and other seasonal flavors and colors. Just be sure to keep these drinks away from the kids!

Would you rather have someone else do the work while you party in a gorgeous setting? Then check out all the Peerspace bars near you that you can rent for your Christmas Eve party. Delicious, professional drinks in a lovely setting sounds like the perfect recipe for an unforgettable gathering!

5. Arrange for a photo booth

Holiday photos don’t have to be awkward. Instead of lining everyone up for a family portrait, set up a DIY photo booth so that your guests can take their own photo when they’re in the mood.

If you need a camera and lighting gear, you can often rent equipment when you need a Peerspace professional photo studio. We recommend bringing along some props and costumes to get your guests inspired!

6. Sing Christmas karaoke

Ditch the Christmas carols for some more interactive fun with this festive Christmas Eve party idea. You don’t need a karaoke machine to make it happen — just look up a Christmas karaoke playlist on Spotify. But if you do want to set up a professional PA system, you can book a Peerspace event space outfitted with karaoke equipment, such as this swanky private reception bar in Winter Park, FL.

7. Make s’mores — outdoors!

Depending on where you live, it may be warm enough to spend some time outdoors. If you don’t have a fire pit or campfire of your own, search on Peerspace for properties that have one. In fact, while you’re at it, why not search for a space that has an outdoor hot tub, too? This is one of those rare, irresistible Christmas Eve party ideas that center on some pampering!

8. Set up a crafting station

If you’re looking for festive Christmas Eve party ideas that don’t involve alcohol (or karaoke), host a DIY crafting party. While it’s too late to craft items for this year’s gifts, there’s no harm in getting an early start on ornaments for next year’s Christmas tree or making some last-minute stocking stuffers. Decide on a project that’s easy to assemble, set up a workstation, and have all of the materials you’ll need on hand. This way, guests of all ages can participate.

9. Make it multicultural

Christmas is celebrated differently around the world, and there is no shortage of traditions — and treats — to choose from. The yule log cake is a popular French tradition, while piñatas are found in many Mexican festivities. Italian Americans celebrate the Feast of Seven Fishes on Christmas Eve, and Filipinos make a star-shaped lantern called a parol.

Even if all of your guests share the same cultural background, chances are everyone’s family has slightly different holiday traditions. Ask your guests to bring a story, dish, or ornament that reminds them of the Christmas Eve of their childhood. Of course, guests who celebrate other seasonal holidays, such as Diwali or Hanukkah, can share their traditions, too.

Speaking of, check out these festive Hanukkah party ideas to celebrate the festival of lights right!