Tired of another quiet night before Christmas? You want to make the evening special with the people you care about most.
A memorable Christmas Eve with friends is a social get-together focused on creating new traditions. But finding fun ideas that go beyond typical family activities can be a challenge. You need inspiration that feels festive, fun, and made for your chosen family.
The best Christmas Eve ideas for friends blend coziness with festive fun. This guide will show you how to host a holiday movie marathon, craft festive cocktails, organize a hilarious gift exchange, or hold a competitive cookie bake-off. Get ready to start a new tradition you’ll love for years to come.
Why Settle for a Quiet Night? Create a Christmas Eve Tradition Your Friends Will Never Forget
Christmas Eve has a certain magic to it, but so many traditions are built around family obligations. What about your chosen family? Your friends deserve a special celebration, too. This isn’t about replacing family time; it’s about adding a new layer of joy to the holiday season with the people who know you best.
Creating a new, annual tradition with your adult friend group is a powerful way to build deeper connections and make memories that last a lifetime. Whether your crew loves a cozy night in, a bit of friendly competition, or something completely unique, there’s a perfect activity waiting for you. This guide is packed with memorable Christmas Eve ideas, from at-home cozy activities to budget-friendly plans, designed to help you start a tradition your friends will look forward to all year.
9 Memorable Christmas Eve Ideas For Friends To Start This Year
1. Host the Ultimate Cozy Holiday Movie Marathon
Pin this cozy idea for your next movie night!
What You Need:
- A curated list of 3-4 holiday movies (mix of classics, comedies, and new releases)
- A high-quality, plush throw blanket for every two guests
- A gourmet popcorn seasoning kit with multiple flavor options
- Ingredients for themed snacks (e.g., “Grinch” fruit skewers, “Rudolph” peanut butter cups)
- Mugs and ingredients for hot chocolate or mulled wine
- Cozy ambiance: dimmable lights, candles, and extra pillows
How to Set It Up:
- Vote on the Lineup: A week before, send a poll to your friends with 5-6 movie options to build excitement and ensure everyone’s happy with the choices.
- Create a Snack Station: Set up a small table with the popcorn, seasonings, and themed snacks so guests can help themselves throughout the night.
- Build a “Pillow Fort”: Arrange all your blankets, pillows, and cushions on and around the couch to create an ultra-cozy viewing nest.
- Set the Mood: About 15 minutes before guests arrive, dim the lights, light some holiday-scented candles, and have a Christmas music playlist on low.
- Pajama Party Rule: Make “festive pajamas required” the official dress code to maximize comfort and fun.
Pro-Tip: Create a simple movie-themed drinking game (with non-alcoholic options!) for one of the films to keep the energy up and encourage interaction.
2. Craft Festive Cocktails (or Mocktails) Together
Save this festive drink idea for your holiday party!
What You Need:
- A beginner-friendly bartender kit with a shaker, jigger, strainer, and muddler
- Recipe cards for 2-3 different festive drinks (e.g., “Mistletoe Mule,” “Spiced Cranberry Margarita”)
- All necessary spirits, mixers, and syrups
- A non-alcoholic base (like sparkling cider or seedlip) for mocktail versions
- A variety of beautiful garnishes: fresh rosemary sprigs, sugared cranberries, cinnamon sticks, orange twists
- A selection of festive cocktail glasses
How to Do It:
- Set Up “Creation Stations”: Arrange the ingredients, tools, and recipe cards at different spots on a counter or table so multiple people can work at once.
- Start with a Demo: As the host, make the first cocktail yourself, explaining each step so everyone understands the process.
- Let Everyone Play Bartender: Encourage friends to pair up or work solo to create the cocktails from the recipe cards.
- Host a “Garnish Bar”: The most fun part! Lay out all the beautiful garnishes in small bowls and let everyone customize their creation.
- Taste and Vote: Have everyone sample the different drinks and vote for a favorite.
Pro-Tip: Make a big batch of a simple syrup (like rosemary-infused or cinnamon syrup) the day before. It elevates the drinks and saves a messy step during the party. Please drink responsibly and have a plan for safe transportation.
3. Organize a Hilarious White Elephant Gift Exchange
Pin this party game idea for guaranteed laughs!
What You Need:
- A group of friends, each with a wrapped gift
- A pre-determined, low price limit (e.g., $15 or $20 is perfect)
- Funny white elephant gifts that are genuinely useful, strange, or hilarious
- Slips of paper with numbers, one for each person playing
- A hat or bowl to draw numbers from
How to Play:
- Set the Rules: Clearly state the price limit and the theme (e.g., “silly,” “as seen on TV,” “something from your kitchen”). Place all the wrapped gifts in a central pile.
- Draw Numbers: Have everyone draw a number from the hat. The person with #1 goes first.
- The First Turn: Player #1 chooses any gift from the pile and unwraps it for everyone to see.
- The Following Turns: Player #2 can either STEAL Player #1’s unwrapped gift, OR choose a new, wrapped gift from the pile.
- The Stealing Chain: If Player #2 steals from Player #1, then Player #1 gets to choose a new gift from the pile. A gift can only be stolen a certain number of times (we recommend 3 times) before it’s “frozen” with its final owner.
- Continue the Chaos: Continue in numerical order until everyone has a gift. The final player (#1) gets to swap their gift with any “unfrozen” gift in the room.
Lesson Learned: The best White Elephant gifts are the ones that spark conversation or laughter. Avoid generic items like candles or lotion; aim for the weird and wonderful.
4. Hold a Competitive Christmas Cookie Bake-Off
Save this sweet idea for your holiday get-together!
Materials Needed:
- Pre-baked sugar or gingerbread cookies in various holiday shapes (bake them the day before to save time)
- A complete Christmas cookie decorating kit with multiple icing colors and sprinkles
- Extra bowls for mixing custom icing colors
- Parchment paper or disposable tablecloths for easy cleanup
- A multi-level tiered cooling rack to display the finished creations
- A silly prize for the winner (e.g., a “Star Baker” apron or a golden whisk)
Step-by-Step Directions:
- Set Up Decorating Stations: Cover a large table with parchment paper. Portion out cookies for each person and set up shared bowls of icing, sprinkles, and decorating tools in the middle.
- Announce the Categories: To make it a real competition, announce 2-3 prize categories before you start. Examples: “Most Creative,” “Most Festive,” and “Hilariously Bad.”
- Set a Timer: Give everyone a set amount of time (like 30-45 minutes) to decorate their batch of cookies. This adds a fun sense of urgency.
- Judging Ceremony: Once the time is up, have everyone present their best cookie for each category. Conduct a secret ballot vote for the winners.
- Award the Prize: Announce the winners and present the silly prize with great ceremony. Everyone gets to take home their delicious creations as a party favor.
Pro-Tip: Use squeeze bottles for the icing instead of piping bags. They are much easier for beginners to handle, leading to less mess and more intricate designs.
5. Throw an Epic Holiday Board Game Night
Pin this for your next game night with the crew!
Games & Supplies Needed:
- A selection of 2-3 board games suitable for groups (see tip below)
- One of the best party board games for adults, like Codenames, Jackbox Games (played on a TV), or Telestrations
- A large table or floor space where everyone can gather comfortably
- Easy-to-eat, non-greasy snacks like pretzels, veggie sticks, and M&Ms
- A whiteboard or notepad for keeping score
Step-by-Step Directions:
- Curate the Game Library: Choose games that are easy to learn, play relatively quickly, and accommodate your group size. Have more than one option ready.
- Explain the Rules Clearly: Before starting, have one person (who has read the rules beforehand) give a quick, clear explanation. Pro-tip: find a “How to Play” video on YouTube to show the group.
- Consider a Mini-Tournament: For a more competitive group, structure the night as a tournament. Play 2-3 different games and award points for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place in each. The person with the most points at the end wins bragging rights.
- Team Up: For larger groups, play games that allow for teams. This encourages collaboration and gets everyone involved.
- Know When to Switch: If a game isn’t landing well or is taking too long, don’t be afraid to wrap it up and switch to something else. The goal is fun, not finishing at all costs.
Pro-Tip: The best games for a mixed group are social and creative rather than intensely strategic. Games that make people laugh (like Cards Against Humanity or Quiplash) are always a winning choice.
6. Solve a Holiday-Themed Murder Mystery
Save this unique party idea for a night to remember!
Materials Needed:
- A downloadable or boxed holiday murder mystery dinner party kit (many are available online)
- A printer to print out character booklets, clues, and instructions
- Simple costume suggestions for each character (sent to guests in advance)
- Themed food and drinks that match the mystery’s setting (e.g., “Ugly Sweater Party Tragedy”)
- A prize for the person who correctly guesses the murderer
Step-by-Step Directions:
- Choose and Assign Roles: Weeks in advance, purchase your kit and assign characters to your friends based on their personalities. Email them their character description so they can plan a simple costume.
- Set the Scene: Decorate your space to match the theme of the mystery. This doesn’t have to be elaborate—simple touches go a long way.
- Serve Food in Rounds: The game is often played over a three-course meal. Serve appetizers during Round 1 (introductions), the main course during Round 2 (murder and clues), and dessert during Round 3 (accusations and reveal).
- Encourage Role-Playing: As the host, lead by example by staying in character. The more everyone leans into their roles, the more fun it will be.
- The Big Reveal: Follow the game’s instructions for the final accusation and the dramatic reveal of the murderer. Award a prize to the super-sleuth who solved the crime.
Pro-Tip: Choose a kit that allows the murderer to know they are guilty from the start. This makes for much better acting and bluffing throughout the game.
7. Create a Gourmet Hot Chocolate Board
Pin this delicious idea for a cozy night in!
What You Need:
- A large acacia wood serving board or platter
- High-quality hot cocoa mix or chocolate melting wafers
- A crockpot or insulated carafe to keep the hot chocolate warm
- An array of toppings in small bowls: mini marshmallows, chocolate chips, crushed peppermints, holiday sprinkles, chocolate shavings
- Sauces and syrups: caramel, chocolate sauce, whipped cream
- Adult-friendly mix-ins (optional): Baileys Irish Cream, peppermint schnapps, Kahlúa
- Items for dipping: shortbread cookies, pirouettes, pretzel rods, biscotti
Step-by-Step Directions:
- Prepare the Hot Chocolate: Make a large batch of rich hot chocolate and keep it warm in a slow cooker set to “low” or in a large thermal carafe.
- Anchor the Board: Place your largest items on the board first. This will be the small bowls containing your toppings and sauces. Spread them out to create balance.
- Fill in the Gaps: Artfully arrange the larger “dipping” items like cookies and pretzels in flowing lines or piles around the bowls.
- Add the “Sprinkle”: Fill in any remaining empty spaces with loose items like mini marshmallows, chocolate chips, and candy canes. The goal is to make the board look abundant and overflowing.
- Serve and Enjoy: Set the board next to your hot chocolate station and let friends create their own ultimate holiday drink.
Lesson Learned: Offer a mix of textures and flavors. Include something crunchy (pretzels), something soft (marshmallows), something minty (peppermint), and something salty (caramel) for the perfect balance.
8. Host a DIY Christmas Ornament Craft Night
Save this creative tradition to try with your friends!
Materials Needed:
- A complete DIY ornament making kit for adults, or individual supplies
- Blank ornaments (clear glass balls, flat wooden slices, or ceramic shapes work well)
- Acrylic craft paints in various colors, including metallics
- Fine-tipped paint pens for details and writing
- Glitter, faux snow, and other fillers for clear ornaments
- Festive ribbon or twine for hanging
- A disposable tablecloth to protect your work surface
Step-by-Step Directions:
- Set Up the Crafting Zone: Cover a table with a disposable cloth. Arrange all the supplies in the center so they are easy for everyone to reach.
- Provide Inspiration: Print out a few simple design ideas (or pull them up on a tablet) to help spark creativity. Think simple patterns, monograms, or the year “”.
- Demonstrate a Technique: Show a quick and easy technique, like how to pour paint inside a clear glass ball and swirl it around for a cool marbled effect.
- Craft, Chat, and Chill: Put on a great holiday playlist and let everyone create at their own pace. This activity is perfect for fostering relaxed conversation.
- Drying and Finishing: Have a designated “drying rack” (like an empty egg carton) for the finished ornaments. Once dry, help friends tie on their ribbon hangers. Each guest leaves with a new ornament and a sweet memory.
Pro-Tip: Wooden slices are the most beginner-friendly ornament base. They are easy to paint on, and you can use a simple Sharpie to write a name or date on the back, creating a perfect time capsule of your get-together.
9. Take a Spontaneous Christmas Lights Tour
Pin this simple, festive idea for a last-minute plan!
What You Need:
- A car with enough seats for your crew
- A killer holiday music playlist queued up
- The best insulated travel mugs for keeping drinks hot
- A thermos full of homemade hot chocolate or hot toddies
- A quick online search for “best Christmas light displays near me” to find the most decorated neighborhoods
Step-by-Step Directions:
- Find the Best Spots: Do a quick Google search or check your local news website’s social media. They often publish guides to the must-see neighborhoods.
- Pack the Festive Fuel: Fill a large thermos with your hot beverage of choice and pack a travel mug for everyone. Don’t forget a sleeve of cookies for a car snack.
- Create the Vibe: Before you set off, make sure your holiday playlist is downloaded and ready to go. The soundtrack is key!
- Pile In and Drive: Put your designated driver in charge and set off for the brightest neighborhood on your list.
- Ooh and Aah: Drive slowly, take it all in, and have fun rating the houses on a scale of 1 to 10. It’s a simple, classic, and completely free way to soak in the holiday spirit together.
Pro-Tip: Make it a scavenger hunt. Before you leave, create a list of things to find (e.g., an inflatable Santa, blue icicle lights, a house with a projector, a plastic reindeer). The first person to spot each item gets a point.
Key Takeaways: Your Quick Guide to a Memorable Friends’ Christmas Eve
- Focus on Connection, Not Perfection: The goal is to spend quality time together. A simple, happy get-together is always better than a stressful, elaborate one.
- Make it Interactive: The best activities for friends are those that encourage participation, laughter, and conversation, like a game night, craft session, or bake-off.
- Start a Tradition: Choose one idea you truly love and make it an annual event. Repeating a tradition is what builds the deepest memories.
- Delegate and Collaborate: Don’t let one person do all the work. Use the potluck principle for food and assign roles to make planning easy and fun for everyone.
- Set the Vibe: Simple things like a great music playlist, warm lighting, and a cozy space can turn any activity into a special occasion.
People Also Ask About Christmas Eve With Friends
What are some free things to do on Christmas Eve with friends?
Some of the best free activities include a Christmas lights tour, a holiday movie marathon using existing streaming services, or going old-fashioned caroling. You can also host a potluck game night where everyone brings one game and one snack to share, which keeps costs at zero for the host.
What food should I serve for a casual Christmas Eve with friends?
For a casual party, focus on easy-to-eat foods that don’t require much effort. A “build-your-own” bar for tacos or pizzas is always a hit. Alternatively, a festive food board, like a gourmet hot chocolate or snack board, is visually impressive but simple to assemble. A potluck is the easiest option of all.
What are some unique, non-traditional Christmas Eve ideas for friends?
To break from tradition, try hosting a holiday-themed murder mystery dinner party or spending the evening volunteering together at a local charity. A DIY craft night where everyone makes an ornament is another unique option that leaves everyone with a personal keepsake from the evening.
How do you host a stress-free Christmas Eve party for friends?
The key to a stress-free party is to keep it simple and delegate tasks. Opt for a potluck instead of cooking everything yourself, use festive paper plates for easy cleanup, and choose one main activity rather than over-scheduling the evening. Remember, the goal is to enjoy each other’s company.
Final Thoughts
This Christmas Eve, give yourself the gift of a relaxed, fun-filled night with your chosen family. It doesn’t matter if you choose an elaborate murder mystery or a simple movie marathon; what you’ll remember for years to come is the laughter and the feeling of being together. Pick one idea from this list, send that text to your friends, and start a tradition you’ll look forward to all year long.
What’s a favorite holiday tradition you share with your friends? Let me know in the comments below
Last update on 2026-01-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
