There’s something magical about holiday entertaining. The twinkle lights. The music playing in the background. The smell of something cozy simmering in the kitchen. There’s also something slightly unhinged about it, like realizing you’ve vacuumed five minutes before guests arrive and suddenly care deeply about throw pillows.
Holiday hosting has a way of bringing out both our inner Martha Stewart and our very real “please don’t judge my baseboards” energy. The good news is that entertaining does not have to be complicated, expensive, or Pinterest-perfect to be memorable. In fact, the gatherings people remember most are usually the ones that feel relaxed, welcoming, and just a little bit imperfect.
The secret to holiday entertaining that actually feels enjoyable is simple. Plan less. Prep smarter. Serve things you actually like. And give yourself permission to enjoy your own party.
Setting the Mood From the First Sip
Before guests even notice what’s on the table, they notice what’s in their glass. A thoughtful drink setup immediately sets the tone and makes people feel cared for without requiring a full bar situation.
This is where stocking a mix of festive options really shines. A few wines, a batch cocktail, a homemade hot cocoa or cider if you’re feeling ambitious, options that feel special go a long way. This is where Olipop, a taste good prebiotic soda, fits perfectly into holiday entertaining. With flavors like Ginger Ale, Crisp Apple and Vintage Cola that feel nostalgic yet elevated, it gives guests an option that feels intentional instead of like an afterthought. It’s especially great for designated drivers, pregnant guests, or anyone who’s just not feeling the alcohol vibe but still wants something fun.
Set out pretty glasses, a bowl of citrus slices or cranberries, and let guests help themselves. The less time you spend playing server, the more time you get to actually talk to people.
Because Grazing Is a Love Language
If there is one universal rule of hosting, it’s this: no one should ever be hungry while waiting for food. A simple snack spread buys you time and keeps everyone happy.
Think less “elaborate charcuterie board” and more “crowd-pleasing nibbles.” Cheese, crackers, olives, nuts, and something warm coming out of the oven make a table feel abundant without being overwhelming. Store-bought items are absolutely allowed, and honestly encouraged.
One easy upgrade is to mix sweet and savory options so guests can graze. A bowl of spiced nuts next to something creamy or cheesy instantly feels intentional, even if you assembled it in ten minutes.
A Little Extra Without the Extra Work
Cranberry Brie Puff Pastry Bites
These look impressive, but they are almost embarrassingly easy.
You’ll need:
Puff pastry sheets (thawed)
Brie cheese, cut into small cubes
Cranberry sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Optional fresh rosemary for garnish
Cut the puff pastry into small squares and press them gently into a mini muffin tin. Add a cube of brie and a spoonful of cranberry sauce to each. Bake according to the puff pastry package directions, usually around 15 minutes at 375°F, until golden and bubbly. Sprinkle with a little chopped rosemary if you want to feel extra festive.
They disappear fast, so consider making two trays.
Good Food, No Pressure
Holiday entertaining does not require a five-course meal unless you genuinely love cooking under pressure. A main dish that can sit in a slow cooker, be served buffet-style, or prepared mostly ahead of time is your best friend.
Think hearty soups, baked pasta dishes, roasted chicken, or a build-your-own option like sliders or tacos. The goal is food that tastes great even if it’s not served piping hot the second guests arrive.
The more flexible the food, the more flexible you get to be as a host.
Cheers, However You Like It
Holiday Citrus Punch
This one works beautifully as a base that guests can customize.
You’ll need:
Orange juice
Cranberry juice
Sparkling water or a fun soda option like Olipop
Fresh orange slices and cranberries for garnish
Mix equal parts orange juice and cranberry juice in a large pitcher. Just before serving, add sparkling water or soda for fizz. Guests can add spirits if they like, or enjoy it as-is. It looks festive, tastes bright, and works for everyone.
A Simple Sweet Finish
Here’s the truth. After a full meal and plenty of snacks, most guests want something sweet but not overwhelming. This is not the time to debut a delicate dessert that requires perfect timing.
Cookies, brownies, store-bought treats arranged nicely, or one simple homemade dessert are more than enough. Add coffee, tea, and maybe a little hot chocolate station if kids are around, and you’re done.
Easy Chocolate Peppermint Bark
Melt dark or semi-sweet chocolate, spread it on a parchment-lined tray, sprinkle with crushed peppermint candies, and let it set. Break into pieces and serve. It’s festive, familiar, and takes about ten minutes of actual effort.
Relax, It’s a Party
Holiday entertaining is as much about how a space feels as what’s being served. Soft lighting, a playlist playing quietly in the background, and a tidy (not spotless) room are usually enough.
Candles go a long way. So does laughter. So does not apologizing for your house.
Guests are there to spend time with you, not to inspect your grout.
Sit Down, You’ve Earned It
The most important part of hosting is remembering that you are allowed to enjoy your own gathering. Sit down. Eat the food. Have a drink if you want one. Laugh when something goes wrong, because something always does.
The best holiday gatherings are rarely the ones where everything went perfectly. They’re the ones where people felt comfortable, welcomed, and connected.
And if that means serving Olipop next to fancy glasses, using store-bought cranberry sauce, and letting the kids run a little wild in the background, then congratulations. You’re doing it right.
Holiday entertaining does not need to be stressful to be special. Sometimes the most memorable moments come from keeping things simple, sharing good food, and letting joy do the rest.
