5 Unique Dinner Party Ideas To Host This Winter
It's never too cold to celebrate...
Hi everyone! I hope you all had a safe and happy holiday season! January and February are usually not months you think about when it comes to hosting since we are still coming down from the height of the holidays. During this time of the year, it’s great to spend time cozying up indoors and laying low. However, I still think winter is a great time to get together! (Especially for all your winter babies!)
Here are five ideas for a unique dinner party that you can use to host a dinner party, celebrate a birthday, or even other occasions like bachelorette parties, bridal showers, or baby showers!
1. Après Ski Dinner Party
Description:
Bring the charm of a ski lodge to your home with an Après Ski dinner party. This theme is perfect for celebrating winter's chill with warm, comforting food and a cozy, rustic atmosphere.
Menu:
Appetizers: Fondue with crusty bread, pretzels, and assorted vegetables.
Main Course: Beef Bourguignon or a hearty pot roast served with creamy mashed potatoes.
Sides: Roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon, and a winter greens salad with goat cheese and cranberries.
Dessert: Warm apple strudel with vanilla ice cream.
Drinks: Hot toddies, spiked hot chocolate, and mulled wine.
Activities:
Set up a hot chocolate bar with various toppings like marshmallows, whipped cream, and chocolate shavings.
Play classic board games like Monopoly or Scrabble.
Do you want to turn up the vibes? Have a shotski for people to take part in!
If you’re feeling up to it, take the party outside to really take in the elements by gathering around a bonfire. Bonus points if there is snow to really fit the mood!
Table Setting:
Incorporate Scandinavian details like wooden chargers, plaid napkins, cross stitching details, and pine cone centerpieces.
Add cozy touches with faux fur throws draped over chairs.
Use lots lanterns or candles for soft, ambient lighting.
2. Winter Wonderland
Description:
Transform your space into a magical Winter Wonderland with sparkling white and silver decor. This theme is elegant and enchanting, perfect for celebrating the beauty of winter.
Menu:
Appetizers: Smoked salmon canapés and stuffed mushrooms.
Main Course: Roasted turkey or chicken with a cranberry glaze.
Sides: Garlic mashed potatoes, roasted root vegetables, and a mixed greens salad with pomegranate seeds.
Dessert: White chocolate raspberry cheesecake.
Drinks: White Christmas martinis, champagne, and sparkling water with a twist of lemon.
Activities:
Create a DIY snow globe station where guests can make their own festive keepsakes.
Organize a snowflake decorating contest with paper and glitter.
Set up a photo booth with winter-themed props like faux snow and ice skates.
Table Setting:
Use white tablecloths with silver runners and napkins.
Decorate with snowflake confetti, crystal glassware, and silver candelabras.
Add frosted pine cones and white flowers for an elegant touch.
3. Cozy Cabin
Description:
Create the warmth and comfort of a rustic cabin with this theme. Think natural elements, soft textures, and hearty, comforting food.
Menu:
Appetizers: Charcuterie board with assorted cheeses, meats, and nuts.
Main Course: Slow-cooked beef stew or roasted chicken.
Sides: Garlic mashed potatoes, honey-glazed carrots, and a spinach and bacon salad.
Dessert: Apple pie with vanilla ice cream.
Drinks: Mulled cider, red wine, and hot cocoa with peppermint sticks.
Activities:
Have a cozy blanket and pillow fort for guests to relax in.
Play card games like poker or gin rummy.
Set up a small bonfire outside for marshmallow roasting and s'mores.
Table Setting:
Use a plaid tablecloth with burlap runners and napkins.
Decorate with pine branches, pine cones, and rustic lanterns.
Add mason jars with tea lights for a warm glow.
4. Italian Feast
Description:
Bring the warmth and conviviality of an Italian family gathering to your home. This theme focuses on hearty, homemade dishes and a lively, festive atmosphere.
Menu:
Appetizers: Antipasto platters with cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables.
Main Course: Homemade lasagna or osso buco.
Sides: Caprese salad, garlic bread, and roasted vegetables.
Dessert: Tiramisu or cannoli.
Drinks: Chianti, prosecco, and espresso.
Activities:
Set up a pasta-making station where guests can make and cook their own fresh pasta.
Host an Italian wine tasting with a variety of regional wines.
Play traditional Italian music and encourage dancing.
Table Setting:
Use red and white checkered tablecloths and napkins.
Decorate with fresh herbs like basil and rosemary in small pots.
Add bottles of olive oil and balsamic vinegar as part of the decor.
5. Mob Wife Themed Dinner Party
Description:
Channel the glamour and drama of classic mob movies with this theme. Think vintage elegance, luxurious details, and a hint of mystery.
Menu:
Appetizers: Shrimp cocktail and bruschetta.
Main Course: Veal Parmesan or spaghetti carbonara.
Sides: Caesar salad and garlic knots.
Dessert: Ricotta cheesecake and Italian cookies.
Drinks: Classic martinis, Negronis, and red wine.
Activities:
Host a murder mystery game with guests taking on different mob-related characters.
Set up a blackjack or poker table for a casino night vibe.
Have a dress-up contest with awards for the best-dressed "mob wife" and "mob boss." Encourage your guests to dress up. Lots of faux fur, velvet, gloves, and classic suits.
Table Setting:
Use black tablecloths with gold and red accents. (If you want to go a more feminine direction, incorporate cheetah print!)
Decorate with elegant candelabras and crystal glassware.
Add red roses and gold accents for a touch of luxury.
I hope these ideas inspire you to host a fabulous winter dinner party. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to enjoy the company of loved ones, these themes will help you create memorable and enjoyable gatherings.
Talk to you all soon!
-V