Holiday events bring people together with a sense of joy, tradition, and togetherness that’s unique to the season. We enjoy so many shared rituals this time of year, from decorating to gift-giving and feasting. There are endless opportunities for celebration, reflection, and connection.
But there’s also a lot of competition for space on everyone’s calendar during the holidays. If you’re an event producer, that’s a big challenge. Your event needs to really stand out, with a theme and experiences that create memorable moments, in order to entice guests to choose it over other opportunities.
Creating those memorable experiences begins with a theme that offers universal appeal yet feels fresh and different. We’ve got a few ideas - 101 in fact - to help inspire your festive holiday or winter event.
Holiday and Winter Event Themes
- Winter Wonderland Gala – Transport guests to a shimmering icy world, with silver and blue decor, glittering lights, and frosty cocktails. Perfect for formal gatherings, this event can include a live jazz band and a dance floor surrounded by “snow.”
- Gingerbread House Village – Guests are invited to build and decorate their own gingerbread houses, with a variety of colorful, edible decorations. Finished creations are displayed to form a festive holiday village that’s both impressive and delicious.
- Silver Bells & Snowflakes – A sparkling winter ball with elegant silver and white décor, silver bells, and snowflake motifs. It’s an upscale event full of class and holiday magic.
- Holiday Movie Marathon Night – Snuggle up for a night of holiday movie classics with cozy seating, fleece blankets, and an endless supply of popcorn and cocoa. This theme creates a relaxing, nostalgic vibe perfect for all ages.
- Ugly Sweater Party – The tackier, the better! Guests compete to see who has the most outrageous sweater, with prizes, music, and games. It’s a lighthearted theme ideal for creating laughs and Instagrammable moments.
- Winter Carnival – Bring on the winter fun with carnival games, food stalls, and rides. This theme can include activities like ice skating, snowball toss, and a mini Ferris wheel, giving it a magical carnival-in-the-snow vibe.
- Holiday Crafts Market – Support local artisans and enjoy a festive shopping experience with holiday gifts, decorations, and handmade crafts. Set up stalls and booths with festive lighting, music, and treats.
- Enchanted Forest Festival – Enter a mystical forest with twinkling lights, woodland decor, and magical creatures. The event can include activities like fairy house building or storytelling, creating a captivating winter escape.
- Holiday Family Game Night – A relaxed evening with holiday-themed games, puzzles, and trivia for all ages. It’s perfect for multi-generational families, with prizes and snacks making it an entertaining way to bring everyone together.
- S’mores and Stories by the Fire – Gather around a cozy fire for s’mores and holiday stories, creating a warm, rustic atmosphere. This is an intimate way to share holiday traditions and make lasting memories.
- Snow Globe Soiree – Guests step into a life-sized “snow globe” with a backdrop of white lights and delicate snowflakes. Add artificial snow machines, and it feels like walking inside a winter wonderland.
- Ice Princess Ball – A fantasy-filled event for kids with a princess dress code, tiaras, and winter-themed activities like face painting and crafts. It’s a magical day for young guests to feel like royalty in a snowy setting.
- Holiday Cookie Decorating Party – Set up stations with cookies, frosting, and sprinkles for guests to create their own holiday treats. It’s a simple, hands-on event that allows for creativity and family bonding.
- Frozen Fairytale Night – Step into an enchanted icy world with crystal decor, snowflake crafts, and frozen desserts. Inspired by magical winter tales, this event is great for children and adults alike who enjoy a fairytale atmosphere.
- Winter Sports Day – Simulate popular winter sports with activities like snowball toss, indoor curling, and skiing or snowboarding games. Great for an active crowd, this event brings the thrill of winter sports indoors.
- Arctic Animal Adventure – Celebrate the winter world of polar bears, penguins, and more with themed decor and activities. Educational and entertaining, this theme is perfect for families with kids who love animals.
- Silent Disco in the Snow – Dance under the stars with headphones on, surrounded by falling snow. This unique event combines winter magic with a modern, upbeat twist.
- Winter Solstice Celebration – Honor the longest night of the year with a solstice bonfire, storytelling, and warm beverages. A reflective, earthy celebration of nature and renewal.
- Alpine Lodge Party – A ski lodge-inspired event with rustic decor, roaring fireplaces, and flannel blankets. Enjoy mulled wine, hot toddies, and alpine-inspired snacks for an après-ski feel.
- Penguin Plunge (Winter Swimming) – Brave the cold for a winter swim in a chilly pool or lake, often for charity. A fun challenge for adventurous spirits who want to test their endurance!
- Nordic Winter Festival – Celebrate Scandinavian winter traditions with music, bonfires, and cultural foods like glögg and gingerbread. Perfect for those looking to explore and enjoy a cozy Nordic vibe.
- Enchanted Winter Woods – Explore a fairytale-inspired winter forest with twinkling lights and mythical creatures. A beautiful, immersive experience for families and kids who love a magical vibe.
- Holiday Charcuterie and Cocoa Tasting – Sip on various hot chocolates and snack on a holiday-themed charcuterie board with seasonal cheeses, chocolates, and fruits. Ideal for those who love indulgent treats.
- Festive Afternoon Tea – Enjoy a winter afternoon tea with seasonal flavors, such as peppermint and cranberry scones. With delicate sandwiches, tea cakes, and holiday decor, it’s a refined, cozy way to celebrate.
Christmas Event Themes
- Santa’s Workshop Extravaganza – Step into Santa’s workshop, where kids can build toys, craft ornaments, and write letters to Santa himself. Interactive stations create a hands-on holiday experience, ideal for families and children.
- 12 Days of Christmas Scavenger Hunt – Guests search for hidden items themed to each of the 12 days of Christmas, making for a fun and engaging activity. Perfect for team-building or as an interactive family event.
- Elf School – Kids can learn the “secrets of being an elf” with fun activities like toy-making, cookie-decorating, and holiday songs. This interactive event is packed with energy and creativity, perfect for young holiday enthusiasts.
- Christmas Lights Parade – An outdoor or indoor parade with twinkling light displays, music, and costumed characters. Ideal for larger spaces, this event brings a community together with holiday magic and festive spirit.
- Nutcracker Ball – Inspired by The Nutcracker, this theme features ballerina decor, classical music, and even a live ballet performance. It’s a classy, whimsical option for those who appreciate holiday tradition with elegance.
- Christmas Carols and Cocoa – Guests are serenaded by carolers singing holiday classics while they sip on cocoa with marshmallows. Simple and heartwarming, this event is a celebration of music and holiday cheer.
- Polar Express Pajama Party – Guests wear their comfiest pajamas for a screening of The Polar Express, complete with a hot chocolate bar, marshmallows, and holiday cookies. Perfect for a cozy, family-friendly night in.
- Christmas Around the World – Celebrate global holiday traditions by exploring decor, music, and foods from different cultures. This event is a great way to educate and entertain while experiencing new holiday customs.
- Santa’s Sleigh Ride Adventure – An outdoor event featuring sleigh rides through a wintery scene or photo ops with a decorated sleigh. Warm up with hot cider and snacks afterward, capturing the wonder of the holiday season.
- Christmas Tree Farm Social – Visit a cozy Christmas tree farm for an evening of tree decorating, caroling, and seasonal treats. It’s a rustic, charming event perfect for gathering with loved ones.
- Christmas Carol Karaoke – Sing your heart out to your favorite holiday tunes in a fun karaoke setting. Whether you're a seasoned singer or just in it for the fun, it’s a merry time for all.
- Elf Escape Room – Join forces with friends to solve puzzles, complete challenges, and help Santa’s elves save Christmas in this holiday-themed escape room experience.
- Letters to Santa Station – Set up a special station for kids (and adults!) to write and send their letters to Santa. A sweet, interactive way to share holiday wishes with the big man himself.
- Christmas Storybook Land – Explore a whimsical storybook-inspired world filled with larger-than-life book characters, gingerbread houses, and festive activities. Perfect for families with young children.
- Holiday Baking Workshop – Learn how to bake traditional holiday treats like cookies, pies, and cakes with the help of a pro baker. A hands-on experience where you can eat your creations!
- North Pole Pajama Party – Slip into your coziest pajamas and head to the North Pole for a night of movies, snacks, and a visit from Santa. A perfect evening for relaxing and having fun with friends and family.
- Secret Santa Gift Exchange – A fun, surprise-filled event where guests participate in a Secret Santa gift exchange. It’s a lighthearted way to spread holiday cheer and enjoy a festive evening.
- Christmas Ornament Swap – Bring your favorite Christmas ornament to trade with others in a friendly ornament swap. A charming way to build a unique collection of decorations.
- Rudolph’s Reindeer Run – Dress up in your best reindeer costume and race for charity or fun in this whimsical holiday 5K. A festive event to keep you active while spreading holiday cheer.
- Reindeer Petting Zoo – Spend time with reindeer and other holiday animals in this interactive petting zoo. It’s a kid-friendly, festive activity that brings the magic of Christmas to life.
- Tinsel and Trivia Night – Test your holiday knowledge with a Christmas-themed trivia contest, complete with festive prizes and drinks. A fun way to combine competition with holiday cheer.
- Holiday Scrapbooking Workshop – Preserve memories from the season by creating personalized holiday scrapbooks with photos, memorabilia, and creative decorations. A great event for DIY enthusiasts.
- A Victorian Christmas – Step back in time with a Victorian-inspired Christmas celebration, featuring period music, traditional foods, and old-fashioned decor. A nostalgic trip to a classic holiday era.
- Poinsettia Party – Celebrate the beauty of the poinsettia with a party focused on these iconic holiday plants. Guests can make their own floral arrangements and enjoy themed refreshments.
- Christmas in the City – Experience a modern urban Christmas celebration with rooftop parties, city-wide light displays, and stylish cocktails. A chic, lively event for city dwellers.
- Santa’s Grand Arrival – Celebrate Santa’s arrival in grand style, whether by sleigh, firetruck, or helicopter! This spectacular entrance is the perfect way to kick off your holiday festivities.
- Vintage Christmas – Step into a time-honored Christmas celebration with vintage decorations, period costumes, and retro holiday music. This old-fashioned theme brings warmth and nostalgia.
- Peppermint Party – A sweet event focused on all things peppermint, from peppermint-flavored treats to peppermint-themed decor. A fun, refreshing way to embrace the holidays.
- Cozy Christmas Book Club – Gather with others to read and discuss classic Christmas books, from “A Christmas Carol” to modern holiday tales. A cozy, literary holiday gathering.
- Christmas Lights Trolley Tour – Take a festive trolley tour to see the best holiday light displays around the neighborhood or city. It’s a charming, low-key way to enjoy the holiday magic.
Hanukkah Event Themes
- Festival of Lights Celebration – Gather to honor the story of Hanukkah with menorah lighting, traditional foods like latkes, and live music. A warm and inclusive way to celebrate the holiday.
- Dreidel Spin-Off Tournament – Bring the fun of dreidel to life with a spirited tournament. Competitors of all ages can spin to win chocolate gelt and other festive prizes.
- Hanukkah Feast Night – Enjoy a community-style dinner featuring traditional Hanukkah dishes such as brisket, latkes, and sufganiyot. A delicious way to share the holiday spirit with loved ones.
- Hanukkah Storytelling Evening – Gather around for an evening of stories about the origins and traditions of Hanukkah. Perfect for families and anyone looking to learn about or connect with the holiday.
- Glow in the Dark Hanukkah Party – Celebrate the Festival of Lights with glow sticks, illuminated dreidels, and neon decor. A playful and modern take on Hanukkah festivities.
- Latke Cook-Off – Bring out the best latke recipes in this friendly cooking competition. Guests can sample and vote on their favorite, creating a fun and tasty celebration.
- Hanukkah Crafts Workshop – Create menorahs, dreidels, and other holiday crafts with family and friends. A hands-on activity that combines creativity with tradition.
- Hanukkah Choir Performance – Enjoy a moving performance of Hanukkah songs by a choir or musical group. A serene and joyful way to celebrate through music.
- Menorah Lighting Ceremony – Join the community for a ceremonial menorah lighting each night of Hanukkah. A reflective and meaningful way to come together and honor the holiday.
- Hanukkah Movie Night – Host a screening of classic or modern Hanukkah films with popcorn and cozy seating. A relaxed evening for family and friends to enjoy.
- Hanukkah Scavenger Hunt – Create a holiday-themed scavenger hunt with clues tied to Hanukkah traditions and symbols. A fun, interactive event for kids and families.
- Hanukkah Glow Walk – Organize a menorah-lit nighttime walk to symbolize the spreading of light during Hanukkah. Combine with songs, stories, or reflections along the route.
- Hanukkah Song Sing-Along – Gather for a group sing-along of traditional Hanukkah songs like "Maoz Tzur" and festive tunes. A spirited way to celebrate through music.
- Hanukkah Art Exhibition – Showcase local artists’ work inspired by Hanukkah and its themes of light, resilience, and tradition. A great way to combine culture and community.
- Hanukkah Comedy Night – Share laughs with a stand-up comedy night featuring Jewish comedians or holiday-themed humor. A lighthearted way to celebrate the holiday.
- Hanukkah Candle-Making Workshop – Learn how to make candles for the menorah in this hands-on craft workshop. Guests can take home their creations for their own celebrations.
- Eight Nights of Giving – Organize a charity or volunteer initiative, dedicating each night of Hanukkah to a specific cause or act of kindness. A meaningful way to honor the holiday’s values.
- Hanukkah Dessert Party – Indulge in sufganiyot (jelly donuts), rugelach, and other sweet treats in a dessert-themed gathering. Perfect for those with a holiday sweet tooth.
- Hanukkah Family Trivia Night – Test your knowledge of Hanukkah traditions, history, and fun facts in a friendly trivia competition. Great for all ages to learn and bond together.
Kwanzaa Holiday Event Themes
- Unity Festival (Umoja) – Celebrate unity by bringing the community together for a day of shared traditions, music, storytelling, and collaborative art. This event emphasizes building bonds and fostering togetherness.
- Kwanzaa Craft Workshop – Create symbolic crafts like unity cups, mkeka mats, and kinara candle holders. A hands-on event for families to connect with Kwanzaa’s traditions through art and creativity.
- Cultural Marketplace – Host a bazaar featuring Black-owned businesses, handmade crafts, and traditional foods. It’s an opportunity to celebrate cooperative economics (Ujamaa) and support the community.
- Kwanzaa Candle-Lighting Ceremony – Hold a reflective event where participants light the kinara candles each day, discussing the significance of each principle and how it applies to their lives.
- Stories of the Ancestors – Celebrate Kwanzaa’s principle of Kujichagulia (self-determination) by sharing stories of African heritage, legendary leaders, and personal reflections through spoken word and poetry.
- African Dance and Drum Night – Experience the power of African rhythms with a night of traditional drumming, dancing, and live performances. Encourage guests to join in and learn the steps.
- Feast of Faith (Karamu) – Host a communal feast featuring traditional African and African-American dishes. Incorporate rituals like sharing thanks, discussing the Nguzo Saba (Seven Principles), and honoring ancestors.
- Kwanzaa Youth Talent Show – Showcase the creativity of the younger generation with a talent show featuring music, dance, spoken word, and art. Encourage themes of purpose (Nia) and self-expression.
- Kwanzaa Film Night – Screen films or documentaries highlighting African and African-American history, culture, and resilience. Follow with a discussion on how these stories connect to Kwanzaa principles.
- Ujima Community Service Day – Bring people together to engage in a day of community service, such as organizing food drives, cleaning up neighborhoods, or hosting educational workshops. A hands-on way to practice collective work and responsibility.
- Kwanzaa Reflections and Vision Boards – Encourage attendees to reflect on the Seven Principles and create vision boards for the upcoming year, inspired by purpose (Nia) and creativity (Kuumba).
New Year’s Event Themes
- Masquerade Ball – Ring in the New Year with a glamorous masquerade ball where guests wear masks and elegant attire. Dance the night away under sparkling chandeliers.
- Countdown Carnival – Enjoy a festive evening full of games, music, and delicious treats as you countdown to the new year. The carnival atmosphere adds a playful energy to the night.
- Gatsby Glam Party – Travel back to the Roaring Twenties with a glamorous Great Gatsby-themed party. Think flapper dresses, jazz music, and vintage cocktails in a dazzling setting.
- New Year’s Eve Fireworks Show – Celebrate the coming year with an awe-inspiring fireworks display. A classic and unforgettable way to ring in the new year with family and friends.
- Black & Gold Gala – Celebrate New Year’s Eve in style with a black-and-gold-themed gala, complete with elegant attire, champagne toasts, and a live band.
- Sparkle & Shine Party – Light up the night with a dazzling sparkle-themed party where guests are encouraged to wear sequins, glitter, and all things that shine. A festive way to sparkle into the new year.
- Roaring Twenties New Year’s – Celebrate the 1920s in grand fashion with flapper dresses, jazz music, and speakeasy vibes. A glamorous throwback to one of the most exciting decades in history.
- Champagne and Cheers – Raise a glass at this bubbly-focused New Year’s Eve event featuring champagne tastings, cocktails, and an unforgettable midnight toast.
- New Year’s Resolution Party – Gather friends to reflect on the past year and share resolutions for the year ahead. This event includes goal-setting workshops, vision boards, and inspiring conversations.
- New Year’s Pajama Party – Celebrate New Year’s Eve from the comfort of your own cozy pajamas. With a laid-back vibe, this event includes a fun mix of snacks, movies, and party games.
- Countdown Confetti Bash – A lively event with countdown moments, confetti-filled celebrations, and festive music that will ensure you ring in the new year with lots of laughter.
- Around the World New Year’s Eve – Travel the world as the clock strikes midnight with a party celebrating New Year’s traditions from various countries, complete with international foods, music, and customs.
- 2024 Vision Board Workshop – Kick off the new year with a creative vision board-making workshop where you can focus on your goals and aspirations. A perfect way to start with intention.
- Glow-in-the-Dark Countdown – Celebrate the new year with glowing decorations, UV lights, and neon fun. Dance the night away in a fluorescent, futuristic setting.
- Decades New Year’s Party – Celebrate the best of the past with a New Year’s party where each section of the venue represents a different decade. Guests can travel through time with music, fashion, and food.
- Glow Party Countdown – A neon-lit countdown event featuring glow sticks, LED lights, and vibrant colors. A fun, energetic way to ring in the new year with friends.
- New Year’s Eve Family Game Night – Celebrate the new year with a cozy, family-focused game night. Play board games, enjoy trivia challenges, and countdown to midnight together in a relaxed, fun atmosphere.
Final Thoughts
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