How to Host a Christmas Dinner Party for Large Groups
Hosting a Christmas dinner party for a large group can feel overwhelming, but with the right planning and a few smart tricks, it can be an unforgettable evening filled with good food, laughter, and holiday cheer.
If you're looking to host a memorable Christmas celebration for a crowd, this guide will walk you through how to pull it off smoothly, from setting up a festive atmosphere to planning a crowd-pleasing menu.
As someone who has worked in large scale restaurants over Christmas, trust me, I’ve got you sorted in 7 simple steps.
1. Create a Festive and Functional Space
The first step to hosting a large dinner party is setting up your space so it’s both festive and functional.
Creating an environment that feels warm and cozy for a big group involves a bit of planning, but it’s key to a successful party.
Plan for the Right Seating
Think about your seating arrangement based on the number of guests you’re expecting. If you have a big dining table, arrange additional chairs and maybe a few benches to maximize space.
For smaller spaces, consider renting or borrowing foldable tables and chairs. You could also go for a buffet-style setup if table seating for everyone isn’t feasible.
Decorate with Simple, Elegant Touches
Since you’ll have a big group, keep the decorations simple but festive. A centerpiece of evergreen branches, pinecones, and candles can create a warm holiday atmosphere without crowding the table. It helps if you have a theme for your Christmas decorations.
For example, if you were hosting an 80s Christmas dinner theme you’d have an 80s table set up. Easy.
Hang some twinkling lights around the room, and add a few festive touches like mini wreaths on the chairs or a garland on the mantel for that classic Christmas feel.
I’d also recommend checking out the party website Weeno for inspiration when it comes to Christmas parties for adults and Christmas eve parties.
Designate a Spot for Coats and Bags
With a large group, having a designated area for coats and bags is essential. Set up a coat rack or designate a spare room where guests can leave their belongings. This will keep the main party area clutter-free.
2. Plan a Crowd-Pleasing Menu
When cooking for a large group, simplicity and crowd-pleasing flavors are key. You don’t need a 10-course meal; a few well-chosen dishes that can be made in bulk will do the trick.
Aim for a mix of classic holiday flavors and options that everyone will enjoy.
Starters and Appetizers
To keep your guests entertained while you put the finishing touches on dinner, set out a few appetizers.
A charcuterie board with assorted cheeses, cured meats, crackers, and seasonal fruits is perfect for large gatherings. Bowls of spiced nuts, shrimp cocktail, or a warm spinach-artichoke dip with bread are also easy options that don’t require much prep.
Check out these banging Christmas starters for more inspo.
Main Course
For the main course, choose a dish that’s both festive and easy to make in large quantities. A roast turkey or ham is always a classic choice, but beef tenderloin or a couple of stuffed pork loins can also feed a crowd without too much hassle.
To make it easier on yourself, choose a main dish that can be cooked ahead or kept warm in the oven until it’s time to serve.
Ahead of thyme has some good resources for this.
Side Dishes
For sides, go with dishes that are easy to make in bulk and can sit out without losing flavor. Classic mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and stuffing are all crowd-pleasers.
You can also add a few unique sides, like a cranberry-walnut salad or a green bean almondine, for a bit of variety. Most side dishes can be prepared a day ahead, which will save you time on the big day.
Get yourself over to delish for more inspo.
Dessert
Keep dessert simple but festive. Pies, like pumpkin or apple, are perfect for the season and can be made ahead.
A dessert tray with Christmas cookies, brownies, and chocolate truffles gives guests a variety to choose from and works well for a big group. If you’re up for it, a warm bread pudding with a drizzle of caramel sauce is also a hit.
3. Make Drinks Easy and Accessible
With a large group, a self-serve drink station or bar will save you from having to refill glasses all night. Set up a drink area where guests can help themselves to holiday-themed beverages.
Signature Holiday Cocktails
Consider making one or two large-batch cocktails, like spiked eggnog or mulled wine, so guests can serve themselves.
You could also create a big batch of cranberry punch or holiday sangria and have it ready in a punch bowl or drink dispenser.
Here are some of my favorite Christmas party cocktails to make…
However, being for a large party, I’d recommend having punch or pre-batched drinks at the ready, such as these…
As for Christmas drink resources, I recommend checking out;
Wine and Beer
In addition to cocktails, have a selection of red and white wine, along with a few beer options. For simplicity, place these out at the drink station along with wine glasses and bottle openers. A few buckets of ice nearby can keep drinks cool.
Non-Alcoholic Options
Don’t forget to include non-alcoholic options like sparkling water, soda, or a holiday mocktail for guests who prefer not to drink.
A warm option, like hot chocolate or spiced apple cider, is also a nice touch for the season.
Check out my Christmas mocktails for easy and delicious non alcoholic options or if you prefer go with a big batch of non alcoholic mulled wine.
4. Organize the Flow of Food
When you’re serving a large group, the way you present and serve food can make a big difference. A buffet-style setup is typically the easiest way to handle serving dinner for a crowd.
Set Up a Buffet Table
Arrange your dishes on a separate buffet table so guests can serve themselves. Place plates at the start of the table, followed by main dishes, then side dishes, and finally the dessert plates at the end.
If possible, set up the buffet away from the main dining area so it doesn’t get too crowded.
Label Dishes
For a touch of organization (and a way to help guests with dietary restrictions), label each dish. Simple cards with the name of each dish or even small chalkboard signs can add a bit of charm and make things clear for everyone.
Keep Extras Ready
Make sure you have enough serving utensils and plenty of napkins and extra plates. It’s always a good idea to have a few extra serving dishes and platters on hand in case you need them.
5. Add Personal Holiday Touches
Adding a few personal, festive touches to the party can make it feel extra special for your guests.
Party Favors
Consider creating small holiday favors for each guest to take home. A small bag of Christmas cookies, a mini ornament, or even a tiny jar of homemade hot cocoa mix adds a thoughtful touch and gives guests something to remember the evening by.
Christmas Music
Set the mood with a holiday playlist that’ll add to the festive atmosphere. Choose a mix of classic Christmas tunes and some softer jazz or instrumental holiday music to keep things lively but not overpowering. Just make sure the volume allows for easy conversation.
Fun Holiday Activities
If you want to add some fun to the night, plan a simple holiday game. A white elephant gift exchange, Christmas trivia, or even a cookie decorating station can bring guests together and add a playful element to the evening.
6. Simplify the Cleanup
With a big group, the cleanup can quickly become a daunting task. However, there are a few tricks to keep it manageable.
Use Disposable Plates and Cutlery
If you’re comfortable with it, disposable plates, cutlery, and cups can save a lot of time on cleanup. Opt for eco-friendly options if you’re concerned about the waste, or use recyclable paper plates with holiday designs.
Enlist a Few Helpers
If close friends or family are attending, don’t be afraid to ask for a little help. Most guests are happy to lend a hand clearing plates or loading the dishwasher.
Have Trash and Recycling Stations
Make it easy for guests to discard their own trash by setting up a couple of designated spots for trash and recycling. Label each bin clearly so that guests can easily toss their items without hunting for the right place.
7. Enjoy the Evening!
At the end of the day, remember that the purpose of a Christmas dinner party is to bring together loved ones to celebrate the season. Try not to get too caught up in the small details or worry if everything isn’t perfect.
Your guests will appreciate the warmth and effort you put into hosting, and they’re there to enjoy your company as much as the food and decor.
After all the planning and prepping, take some time to enjoy the party yourself. Grab a glass of wine, join in the laughter, and soak up the holiday cheer that you’ve created.
Here’s to a wonderful, festive Christmas dinner that everyone will remember for years to come!
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Hi, I’m Cameron, guv’nor of Smartblend. If you liked this then you’re in luck, I have a bunch more recipes like it. I share only vegetarian and pescatarian food recipes, cocktails, and drink guides with a sprinkling of wellness and mindful drinking. If that sounds like you, then stick around!
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