Daily Tips for a Holiday-Themed Party Night

Daily Tips for a Holiday-Themed Party Night Look, whether you're celebrating a big holiday or just making the most of a Monday off, there's no denying that holidays are prime time for throwing a party. I've hosted many a holiday gathering, and some of the most memorable (and chaotic) nights came from well-planned drinking game lineups. So if you're brainstorming how to make your upcoming party the talk of the town, you've come to the right place. Quick Answer: Planning a holiday-themed party with drinking games? Mix classics like Beer Pong, Never Have I Ever, and Kings Cup with newer hits like Squid Game Red Light Green Light. Tailor the games to your group's vibe, and remember to keep things responsible. A combination of familiar favorites and fresh challenges will keep everyone entertained and engaged. Classic Games That Never Fail When it comes to party games, sometimes sticking with the classics is your best bet. These games have stood the test of time for a reason - they're simple, effective, and tons of fun. Beer Pong is one of those games everyone loves. You set up a pyramid of cups on each end of a table, fill them with beer or your drink of choice, and try to throw a ping pong ball into the opposing team's cups. When you land a shot, they drink. It's competitive, it's skill-based, and it gets loud fast. Plus, it's great for breaking the ice at the start of the night. If you're planning a Beer Pong showdown, here’s what you’ll need: A long table (at least 8 feet is standard) 12 cups per team (red solo cups are iconic here) Two ping pong balls Beer, or any other drink you'd like to use Never Have I Ever is perfect for groups that are comfortable with each other - or those you'd like to see get a little bit more comfortable. Each player takes turns saying something they've never done, and anyone who has done it has to drink. It's a game of revelations and can lead to some hilarious stories. Plus, it's a great way to learn more about your friends (or make entirely new ones). So which game works best for big groups? For large gatherings, go with Kings Cup. This game involves a deck of cards and a cup in the center, known as the King’s Cup. Players draw cards and follow the rules corresponding to each one. Rules can vary, but they're usually straightforward. The beauty of Kings Cup is its adaptability: you can tweak the rules to suit your crowd’s personality. I've seen nights where this game turned into an epic saga of alliances and rivalries. When setting up Kings Cup, here's your checklist: A full deck of cards A large cup for the King's Cup Drinks for each player Mixing Old Favorites with New Challenges While classic games are reliable, adding something trendy can keep things fresh. Lately, the Squid Game Red Light Green Light drinking challenge has become a must-try. Inspired by the viral Netflix show, this game brings a thrilling twist to the party. One person is the "caller" and stands at the end of the room. When they call "Green Light," players can move forward. At "Red Light," they must freeze. Anyone caught moving drinks. It's a mix of tension and laughter and perfect for fans of the show. If you're considering this, make sure you have: A decent amount of space to move around A designated caller Drinks for penalties Another modern twist to consider is The Office Drinking Game. This one's for die-hard fans of the show. You watch episodes of "The Office" and drink whenever specific things happen - like when Michael says something awkward, or Jim pranks Dwight. It's less about skill and more about knowing the show and having a good time with fellow fans. What about games for smaller gatherings? For more intimate settings, think about games that focus more on conversation. Never Have I Ever can fit here as well, along with simpler card games like Kings Cup. Both encourage interaction and can be adapted for smaller spaces. Creating the Perfect Party Atmosphere No game lineup is complete without the right atmosphere. Trust me, I've been to parties where the game plan was solid, but the vibe was off. You need to set the stage properly. Music: Tailor your playlist to the theme of your party. For holiday events, mix in some classics with popular hits. The right song can turn a simple game of Beer Pong into a full-blown party. Lighting: Use string lights or colored bulbs to set the mood. Avoid bright, harsh lighting unless you're aiming for that interrogation room look (which, hey, might work for some themes). Decorations: Lean into the holiday theme. Whether it's Halloween, Christmas, or a random summer holiday, decorations can transport your guests into the spirit of the event. Snacks and Drinks: Keep a supply of snacks to counterbalance the drinks. It's always a good idea to have some non-alcoholic options as well, for those taking a break or not drinking. Keeping Things Safe and Fun Look, no one wants to end the night with a trip to the ER. Encouraging drinking responsibly is key