Hi Friends! My name is Sarah and I am a mom of 2 small kids. I home school my kids and I love to throw fun get togethers for their friends and my friends. I also use to plan and organize a monthly Life groups for moms with small kids. It was a lot of fun and I was always brainstorming with ideas of what to do with them. So I decided to make a blog post about monthly party ideas for adults and kids alike. Now some of these are geared more to the adults and some are good for kid gatherings and of course family fun gatherings as well.

JANUARY

 

 

 

New Years

Ring in the new year with a fun New Year’s Eve (or even New Year’s Day) party! If you’re celebrating with kids, consider starting the festivities earlier, around 6:00 p.m and do a special countdown closer to 9:00 p.m. You can even find kid-friendly countdowns on YouTube so they’ll feel like they made it to midnight. Add to the fun with noisemakers, glow sticks, or a DIY balloon drop. For adults, set the mood with festive décor like gold and silver streamers, sparkling lights, and a signature drink. Whether it’s dancing, playing games, writing down goals for the new year, or snapping photos at a DIY photo booth, a New Year’s party is all about celebrating together and starting the year off with friends

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Prayer Night

Starting a new year, we all want good things to happen. Why not throw a prayer night with your friends. Start off with light snacks, worship music and then maybe have your group of friends be in a circle and share any prayer requests they have for the year or just in general then you can silently spend a couple of minutes praying for each person there.

 

Lego Night

If you have kids who love legos, why not have a get together playing with Legos!

Here’s where the party really comes to life!

LEGO Building Station

Set out a bunch of loose LEGO bricks (maybe divided by color or type)

Let kids free-build or offer challenge cards:

“Build a car”

“Make an animal”

“Create a robot”

LEGO Games:

Minute to Build It: Set a timer and give everyone the same bricks to build something in 60 seconds

Tallest Tower Challenge

LEGO Relay: Carry bricks on a spoon across the room

LEGO Scavenger Hunt: Hide minifigs or bricks around the party area

Movie Night

Since it is cold out, have everyone to come over in the PJs and have a night cozy up on the couch for a fun movie with hot chocolate, popcorn, chips and any other kind of appetizers the group would enjoy! To make it even better, whatever movie you plan to watch you can theme the night around it with decor, food selection and or costumes.

 

Breakfast for Dinner PJ Party

This could be a fun ideas to do as a family, with friends or just the adults. Make a great big breakfast with pancakes, eggs, toast, sausage, fruit, biscuits and gray. If you are having a group come over have everyone to bring something different then have brinner and games, a movie or just relax and catch up!

 

Glow In the Dark Dance Party

It gets dark so early in January so when it gets dark, get some glow in the dark decor, light up sticks and put on some music to dance to! A Glow-in-the-Dark Dance Party is all about neon vibes, music, and nonstop fun! Set the party with black lights, glow sticks, and neon decorations that pop in the dark, and encourage friends to wear white or bright colors for the ultimate glow effect. Hand out glow necklaces, bracelets, and face paint, then crank up a high energy playlist to keep everyone dancing. Add fun extras like a glow photo booth, light-up drinks, or a dance-off contest to keep the party buzzing. With glowing décor, lively music, and plenty of energy, it’s a party that everyone will remember!

 

FEBRUARY

 

 

Galentine’s Day

Throwing a Galentine’s Day party is so much fun to do for the adults or you could even do this with the kids. You could do this at someone’s house, a restaurant or just go out for a fun night around Valentines Day!

 Pick a Theme & Style

Galentine’s Day is all about celebrating friendship, so you can go full pink-and-red glam or keep it more cozy and relaxed.

Fun & Fancy: Champagne, sparkles, dress-up

Cozy & Casual: Pajamas, blankets, movies

Crafty Night: DIY projects together

Brunch Vibes: Waffles, mimosas, heart-shaped treats

Activities

DIY Craft Table: Make friendship bracelets, decorate mugs, paint coffee glasses

Games: Galentine’s trivia, “Guess the Celebrity Couple,” charades

Photo Booth: Fun props, silly glasses, feather boas

Gift Exchange: Secret Cupid (like Secret Santa but with small, thoughtful gifts)

Movie Night: Romantic comedies or girl-power films

Super Bowl Party

Gather your friends and family, put on your favorite team colors, and get ready for a fun-filled Super Bowl Sunday! Have everyone bring a delicious appetizer or snack to share from cheesy dips to sweet treats so there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re cheering for your team, watching for the commercials, or just here for the halftime show, it’s the perfect chance to relax, laugh, and make some unforgettable memories together.

 

 

Potluck Supper

A potluck supper is one of the easiest ways to bring people together because everyone contributes, everyone eats, and everyone feels involved. It’s perfect for a monthly gathering since the menu is always changing and no one has to do all the cooking.

• Pick a theme: Themes can help guide what people bring for example, “Comfort Foods,” “Taco Night,” or “Soup Night.”

• Create a sign-up list: Avoid too many duplicates by making a shared list (Google Docs, SignUpGenius) so you have a balance of mains, sides, drinks, and desserts.

• Set the scene: Arrange a big serving table with labels for each dish, and keep extra utensils and napkins handy.

• Add a little fun: Have a “Best Dish” friendly competition, play trivia, or do a “recipe swap” where everyone takes home cards with the night’s recipes.

 

Craft Night

Have a fun craft night with the moms and the kids or just have the girls get together to make something special. Pick a seasonal craft or something everyone has wanted to learn. You can be extra and bring in a host that can teach everyone or have everyone to bring in a craft they want to do. Some ideas can be

Seasonal wreaths (fall, Christmas, spring flowers)

Painted mugs or wine glasses

DIY candles or soap

Handmade cards or scrapbooking pages

wood paintings

Polymer clay jewelry

DIY Pizza Party (Bake your Pizza)

How fun would it be to have a DIY Pizza Party. This works for kids, adults, or a mix of both. You can do this different ways but you could have the dough all ready to go or do the whole making from scratch experience.

Decide on the Pizza Style

Personal-sized pizzas (6–8 inches) let everyone customize without waiting too long.

Flatbreads or naan bread for a quick, no-rise crust option.

Pre-made dough balls for those who want the full rolling-and-shaping experience.

Prep Your Pizza Base

Make or buy dough ahead of time. If making from scratch, have it portioned and ready for rolling.

Lightly flour the work surface and rolling pins.

For kids, consider partially pre-baking crusts to speed up the process.

Create a Toppings Bar

Offer a variety so everyone can mix and match:

Sauces: classic tomato, pesto, alfredo, BBQ

Cheeses: mozzarella, cheddar, provolone, goat cheese, vegan cheese

Meats: pepperoni, sausage, grilled chicken, bacon

Veggies: bell peppers, mushrooms, onions, spinach, olives, tomatoes, artichokes

Fun extras: pineapple, jalapeños, sundried tomatoes, fresh basil

Set Up the Pizza-Making Stations

Give each person their own space and parchment paper sheet labeled with their name.

Have sauce ladles, cheese shakers, and topping bowls easy to reach.

Keep raw meat separate from veggie toppings.

Baking Tips

Preheat oven to the highest safe temperature (usually 450–500°F) for a crisp crust.

Use pizza stones or baking steel if available.

Bake 8–12 minutes, depending on thickness and toppings.

 

 

Slime Making Party

This would be a great party to have with the kids! We have actually been to one of these parties and my kids had so much fun! Now I know slime is probably not mom’s favorite thing to play with but we made sure they knew this was an outside toy. Here are some ideas to help you throw this kind of party.

Pick Your Slime Styles

Offer one or two base slime recipes so it’s not too overwhelming. Fun options include:

• Classic white glue slime

• Clear slime (great for glitter)

• Fluffy slime (add shaving cream)

• Glow-in-the-dark slime

• Butter slime (soft and spreadable with clay)

 

Gather Supplies

• White or clear school glue

• Liquid starch, saline solution + baking soda, or Borax solution (your activator)

• Food coloring or liquid watercolors

• Glitter, confetti, sequins

• Scented oils (vanilla, cotton candy, fruit scents)

• Mixing bowls & spoons

• Measuring cups & spoons

• Airtight containers or zip bags for taking slime home

• Table covers and paper towels (slime can get messy!)

 

Set Up Slime Stations

• Base Station: where guests make the initial glue + activator mix.

• Add-Ins Bar: a table with glitter, beads, pom-poms, scents, and coloring.

• Experiment Zone: for mixing small batches with unique combos.

 

Have fun with this and the kids will always have this as a fun memory!

 

MARCH

Lucky Girl Dinner (Green and Gold)

A Lucky Girl Dinner is a festive get together with your girl friends!  Think about blending St. Patrick’s Day, delicious food, and a little green and gold sparkle. Girls can dress in shades of green, enjoy a menu with Irish-inspired dishes and fun themed desserts, sip on festive drinks, and share laughs. It’s all about celebrating friendship, feeling lucky for the people in your life, and making sweet memories together.

March Madness

 

A March Madness Party is the perfect way to bring friends and family together to enjoy the excitement of college basketball. Deck out your space with team colors, pennants, and a big printable bracket for everyone to follow along, then serve up classic game-day favorites like wings, sliders, nachos, and basketball-themed snacks. Keep the energy high with fun extras like a bracket challenge, halftime mini-hoop contests, or basketball trivia, and encourage guests to wear their favorite team gear. With great food, lively games, and plenty of team spirit, it’s a slam dunk for a memorable night.

 

Music / Movies Awards Night

Now I am not sure exactly when each of these awards shows will beAn Awards Party is all about glitz, glam, and celebrating music or film with your friends. Encourage guests to dress like their favorite artists/ actor on the red carpet by wearing Red Carpet worthy outfits, then roll out a “red carpet” (even a hallway runner will do) for photo ops as they arrive. Set the scene with gold, black, and silver décor, music-themed or film centerpieces, and a playlist of past hits before the show starts. Serve fun bites like a charcuterie boards, popcorn in champagne glasses, and sparkling drinks, and keep the night interactive with bingo, prediction ballots, and an award for “Best Dressed.” It’s the perfect mix of Hollywood sparkle and music-loving fun.

 

 

Game Night

A Game Night is the perfect way to bring friends and family together for laughs and friendly competition. Set up a cozy space with plenty of seating and a variety of games such as board games, card games, trivia, or even party classics like charades. To keep things exciting, mix in quick, lighthearted games with longer strategy ones so everyone can join in. Serve easy-to-grab snacks like popcorn, chips, and finger foods, and consider a “winner’s prize” for extra fun. With good food, lots of laughs, and a little competition, a game night party is always a hit!

 

 

Fondue Night

A Fondue Party is a cozy, interactive way to enjoy a meal with friends while making memories. The beauty of fondue is that it turns dinner into an experience. Everyone gathers around the pot, dipping, cooking, and laughing together. Start with a classic cheese fondue made with Swiss or cheddar, served with crusty bread cubes, pretzels, roasted potatoes, fresh veggies, or even apple slices for dipping.

For the main course, you can set up a broth or hot oil fondue where guests can cook bite-sized pieces of chicken, beef, or shrimp right at the table. Finally, end the evening with the star of the show: a decadent chocolate fondue with strawberries, bananas, marshmallows, pound cake cubes, and cookies.

To make it easier on the host ask friends to bring something to help with the meal.  Provide plenty of skewers, napkins, and small plates so everyone can try a little bit of everything. You might even create different fondue stations—one for cheese, one for broth or oil, and one for dessert—so guests can mingle and move around. Pair each course with drinks, like wine or sparkling cider with cheese, and coffee or liqueurs with dessert. Whether you host it as a sit-down dinner or a more casual, buffet-style setup, a fondue party is the perfect mix of comfort food, conversation, and fun.

Scrapbook Night

A Scrapbook Night is a creative and meaningful way to spend time with friends while preserving memories. Set up a big table with plenty of supplies such as, patterned paper, stickers, washi tape, glue, scissors, and markers—so everyone can dive into their projects. Encourage friends to bring their own photos scrapbook, and the host can provide extras like printed quotes or themed embellishments for inspiration. Add to the fun with snacks, a cozy playlist or a movie and maybe even a photo printer on hand so no one runs out of pictures. It’s a relaxed, fun evening where everyone leaves with both beautiful scrapbook pages and new memories made together.

 

APRIL

• 

Picnic and Painting

A Picnic and Painting Party is a great idea since it is finally warming up outside. You could do this at a park or in your backyard. Set up blankets or picnic tables and provide simple art supplies like canvases, easels, wood projects to paint, brushes, and a variety of paints. Friends can enjoy picnic-style food such as sandwiches, fruit, cheese boards, and refreshing drinks before or while they paint. To keep it simple, you can set a theme for the artwork, follow along with a tutorial, or let everyone create freely. Add some music, comfortable seating, and maybe a few lights if it runs into the evening, and you’ve got a fun event filled with creativity.

Easter Brunch and Egg Hunt

An Easter Brunch and Egg Hunt is the perfect way to celebrate the holiday friends while making fun memories for all ages. Start by creating a festive atmosphere with pastel decorations, fresh flowers, and a spring table setting. Plan a delicious brunch menu that offers something for everyone such as quiche, ham, deviled eggs, fruit salad, pastries, and kid-friendly options like sandwiches or fruit kabobs. Don’t forget sweet Easter desserts like carrot cake or cookies. Make a fun punch for the adults and kids to drink as well.

After brunch, keep the excitement going with an egg hunt that’s tailored to different age groups. Hide eggs filled with candy, stickers, or small toys for younger children, while older kids can hunt for eggs with coins, dollar bills, or special prizes.After the kids find the eggs, do an egg hunt for the adults! Let the kids go out and hide the eggs for their parents. You can have the moms bring eggs already prefilled with all the fun things moms want, such as hair ties, gift cards, book marks, makeup, nail polish anything that can fit in an egg.  Make it extra fun by including a “golden egg” with a big surprise inside.

To round out the day, add activities like egg decorating, bunny-themed crafts, or even an egg-and-spoon race. Your friends can head home with Easter-themed favors, leaving everyone with full hearts, happy memories, and maybe a little chocolate, too.

Spring Cleaning Swap Night

 

We all have good intentions of going through our house and getting rid of clutter such as toys, clothes, home decor, but let’s face it! Most of our items are not worth the time to sell because it’s not worth that much. Why not have a Spring Cleaning Swap Night! Gather the girls and bring over things you need to get rid of! Have fun going through each other’s boxes of treasure! It is a great way to get rid of stuff and give things to people who you love.

 

Trader Joe Food Night

Trader Joe’s has some of the best food! If you don’t have a Trader Joe’s then pick a grocery store that everyone likes and have everyone to bring their favorite dish from that store. The idea of this is to find new meals to cook for your family.

 

 

Rollerskating Party

 

Not every party or gathering has to be around food or at your house hosting it. Getting together with friends is the best thing. Go rollerskating with your friends and get some exercise together! It is a lot of fun and cheap outing for everyone.

 

Zoo Trip

Gather up your friends and head out together to have a Zoo day! Most zoos have splash pads, playgrounds, classes and events. Go to their website and look around and see what you can do as a group with your friends.

 

Paint Pottery

 

MAY

 

Mothers Day Brunch

A Mother’s Day brunch with friends is the perfect way to celebrate and relax while enjoying good food and company. Start by setting the mood with a pretty table with fresh flowers, pastel linens, and simple but elegant place settings. You can host it at home, in the backyard, or even at a local park for a picnic-style brunch. A potluck-style menu works great: ask each friend to bring a favorite brunch dish, from quiches and pastries to fruit salads and casseroles. Don’t forget a coffee and tea station, along with fun extras like mimosas, flavored syrups, or a juice bar.

To make it feel extra special, add thoughtful touches like personalized name cards, small gift bags with self-care items (candles, bath salts, or chocolates), or a photo spot with a simple backdrop for keepsake pictures. For fun, plan a light activity like sharing “mom hacks,” doing a short craft, or even hosting a “mom trivia” game for laughs. Keep the focus on relaxation, good conversation, and celebrating one another.

 

 

Cinco De Mayo

Set up a taco bar with all the fixings — shells, tortillas, meats, beans, and toppings galore. Guests can bring a topping, salsa, or side dish like Mexican street corn or churros. Make it festive with bright tablecloths and music.

 

 

Kentucky Derby Night

The Kentucky Derby isn’t just a horse race — it’s an excuse to throw a party with style, and good food. Whether you’re watching for the sport, the hats, or the mint juleps, here’s how to create a memorable night.

Dress the Part

Encourage guests to wear traditional Derby attire.

Women: Bright floral dresses, wide-brimmed hats, pearls, and heels or wedges.

Men: Seersucker suits, colorful ties, fedoras or Panama hats, and loafers.
Add a “Best Hat” contest for extra fun.’

Décor & Atmosphere

Colors: Red roses (the Derby’s official flower), green turf accents, and gold touches.

Centerpieces: Small vases with red roses or mini horse figurines.

Tables: Cover with green “turf” tablecloths or runners for a racetrack feel.

Play upbeat bluegrass or jazz music before and after the race.

Signature Drinks

The Mint Julep is the Derby’s most famous drink — bourbon, fresh mint, sugar, and crushed ice served in a silver cup.
For non-alcoholic options, try:

Sweet tea with mint

Sparkling lemonade with fresh berries

Southern-Inspired Menu

Appetizers: Pimento cheese dip, deviled eggs, mini hot browns

Main: Pulled pork sliders, fried chicken, shrimp and grits

Dessert: Derby pie (pecan and chocolate), bourbon bread pudding

The Race Itself

Have the Kentucky Derby broadcast ready to go — it’s quick, so make it a centerpiece of the evening.

Pass out “betting slips” (play money) so guests can pick their horses for fun prizes like Derby glasses, horse-themed coasters, or bourbon chocolates.

Fun Extras

Photo Booth: Set up a backdrop with roses and props like horse masks, bow ties, and oversized hats.

Derby Trivia: Ask questions about Derby history between events.

DIY Fascinator Station: Let guests create or decorate mini hats.

A Kentucky Derby Night is the perfect mix of style, friendly competition, and Southern hospitality — whether your horse wins or not, you’ll end the night feeling like a champion.

Garden Dinner/ Tea Party

 

A garden tea party is a charming way to gather your friends for a relaxing and elegant afternoon. Set the scene with pretty tables outdoors, decorated with fresh flowers, lace or pastel tablecloths, and mismatched teacups for a whimsical touch. You could do this in your backyard, and throw down some picnic blankets as well. Serve a selection of teas alongside light refreshments such as finger sandwiches, scones with jam and cream, fruit, and petite desserts. Encourage your friends to dress in spring attire or even fun hats to make it feel extra special. Add a few fun activities like a flower arranging station, a photo corner, or simple lawn games to keep things.

 

 

 

End Of School Party / Rewards / Talent Show / Show and Tell

 

An End of School Party for the kids is always a blast! For me and my homeschool kids it’s a wonderful way to celebrate the year’s accomplishments while making lasting memories. You can kick things off with a fun award ceremony, recognizing each child with a certificate or small prize for their hard work and unique strengths. Then, host a talent show, where kids can sing, dance, perform skits, or showcase their skills in front of friends and family. To wrap up, add a show-and-tell session, giving each child a chance to share a favorite project, book, or personal item from the school year. Mix in festive snacks, decorations, and maybe even a photo booth to capture the fun, and you’ll have a meaningful celebration that makes kids feel proud and excited for the summer ahead.

 

 

Ice Cream Social

Beat the summer heat with an ice cream bar. Provide several ice cream flavors, and let guests bring toppings such as sprinkles, sauces, fruit, candies. Offer cones, bowls, and even root beer for floats. Keep it light, cool, and fun.

 

JUNE

 

 

Summer Bonfire and BBQ

Have a fun cookout with your friends for a night out! You could do this at a friend’s house, the local park where they may have grills you can use. If you are doing this at your house, add in a fun bonfire and roast marshmallows and add in some fun lawn games.

 

 

Bucket List Night

A bucket list night with friends is a creative way to dream big, share goals, and inspire one another while having fun. Have some light snacks that everyone can bring. Give everyone pretty stationery, journals, or even a big poster board where they can write down their bucket list items, whether it’s places to travel, experiences to try, or personal goals to achieve. Take turns sharing lists, and cheer each other on while finding overlaps or ideas you might even do together. To make it more interactive, you could create vision boards with magazines and craft supplies, or write a “group bucket list” for future adventures. It’s a fun night that leaves everyone feeling motivated, connected, and excited about what’s ahead.

 

 

S’mores and Lawn Games

Making some yummy s’mores is always a fun tradition we love to do. You can make a fun little s’mores bar with different kinds of graham crackers, cookies, marshmallows and chocolates You can also add in some fruit and other candies. Now for the lawn games, you can do corn hole, badminton, large Jenga, croquet, yard darts and horseshoe.

 

 

Luau Night

A Luau Night is a festive way to bring tropical vibes to your gathering and make everyone feel like they’re on island time. Decorate with tiki torches, leis, colorful flowers, and string lights to set the scene. Serve Hawaiian inspired food such as grilled chicken or pork, tropical fruit, pineapple salsa, and refreshing drinks with umbrellas. Encourage guests to dress in Hawaiian shirts, grass skirts, or bright colors to match the theme. Add in some fun activities like limbo, hula dancing and some swimming. With the right mix of décor, food, and entertainment, a Luau Night becomes a lively and memorable celebration full of laughter and aloha spirit.

 

 

Target Scavenger Hunt

Gather your friends and have a fun Target Scavenger Hunt. Now, this doesn’t have to be done at Target, you can choose any store of your choice. but go online and look up some fun scavenger hunts that go with that store, You can find the scavenger hunts on Etsy, Pinterest or even on google or just make your own. Make some fun prizes for the winners and just have fun. To add in more fun, make it a photo scavenger hunt so you can collect all the fun memories from the day!

 

 

Volunteer

As your group of friends of some ideas that you can volunteer together. There are so many places such as an animal shelter, food banks, or with your local church to do some outreach ministries.

 

 

JULY

• 

Pool Party

A pool party is the ultimate way to cool off and have fun, and you don’t even need your own pool to make it happen! If you don’t have one, head to your local splash pad, waterpark, or community pool for a fun day in the sun with friends. You can also bring the water fun to your own backyard by renting a water bounce house, setting up a slip-and-slide, sprinklers, or even filling kiddie pools for splashing around. Add in some fun pool floats, water balloons, and frozen treats to keep everyone cool and entertained, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for a refreshing summer celebration. Some fun themed ideas is adding in an outdoor movie by the pool or glow in the dark swimming.

 

Hike

Get out early with your friends and do a fun hike somewhere you have never been, You could hike to a swimming hole, waterfall or to a great view. Bring a packed lunch and stop at the local river for a fun dip in once you are done.

 

Day at the Lake

Beat the summer heat with a fun filled Lake Day Party! Gather your friends at your local swimming area for a day of sun, sand, and water adventures. Let the kids build sandcastles and splash around while the adults relax and soak up the sun. Rent a pavilion for shade and fire up the grill, or bring a picnic lunch to enjoy together. Many lakes offer boat rentals so have everyone pitch in to take one out for a spin on the water. Don’t forget water games, floaties, and maybe even a friendly volleyball match to make the day memorable. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a beachy vibe without leaving town!

 

Firework Show

 

July is all about Independence Day so why not throw a Firework Party! If you are the type of person who loves to buy fireworks, then have that as your party theme. Kids and adults love to watch the fireworks and spend time together. If you don’t like to shoot them off then go somewhere as a group to watch the action in the sky

 

Christmas in July

When I was little, we would travel once a year to see my mom’s family during the summer and since the whole family was together we had a few years we celebrated Christmas in July. As a kid, I thought this was the funniest thing! It was such a fun memory for me that I have done this tradition with my kids just for fun!

Decorate with lights, festive banners, and even a mini Christmas tree to set the mood. Encourage your friends to wear fun holiday attire like Santa hats, reindeer antlers, or tropical-themed Christmas shirts. Serve a mix of summery treats and holiday classics think grilled goodies alongside candy cane drinks or ice cream “snowmen.” Plan games like a gift exchange with quirky, beach-themed presents, Christmas karaoke, or a water balloon “snowball” fight to keep everyone laughing. Add a festive playlist with holiday hits and tropical tunes to keep the energy high, making it a cheerful, sun-soaked twist on the season!

If you are looking for more ideas, I have a whole list of ideas here on this blog post >> Christmas in July Ideas in the Smoky Mountains

 

 

Camping

A camping party is a wonderful way to let kids enjoy the outdoors while keeping it simple and fun! Set up tents in your backyard or at a local campsite, and decorate the space with lanterns, fairy lights, and sleeping bags to create a cozy campsite feel. Plan classic camping activities like a scavenger hunt, nature walk, or flashlight tag once it gets dark. If you can’t have a real fire, set up a faux “campfire” with glow sticks or LED lights so the kids can still gather around and share stories.

For food, keep it traditional with hot dogs, trail mix, and of course s’mores—either over a fire pit (with adult supervision) or using a tabletop s’mores maker. You could also have a picnic blanket spread with camping snacks and thermoses of hot cocoa. A fun idea is to give each child their own “camp kit” with a flashlight, bug stickers, and a bandana. To wrap up the night, play a movie under the stars with a projector or let everyone snuggle in their sleeping bags to read stories by lantern light. If you don’t allow sleepovers, have all the parents to pick up their kids at 10:00pm. It’s a magical mix of adventure and comfort that kids will remember long after the tents come down!

 

 

AUGUST

Back To School Party

A back to school party is a great way to celebrate the end of summer and get kids excited for a fresh start! Set the scene with fun school-themed decorations like chalkboards, apples, pencils, and even mini backpacks as table centerpieces. You could create a “classroom snack bar” with treats served in lunch bags, juice boxes, and bowls labeled like a cafeteria. A photo booth with props such as oversized glasses, books, and “first day of school” signs makes for great memories parents can save and share.

For activities, organize school-themed games like a school scavenger hunt. You could also set up a DIY craft station where kids decorate folders, notebooks, or pencil cases to use in the new school year. To wrap things up, give out little goodie bags with school supplies like erasers, markers, and stickers practical and fun! Whether it’s held at home, in the backyard, or even at a park, a back-to-school party can turn nerves into excitement and make the new year something to look forward to.

 

Outdoor Movie Night

Gather the kids and have a fun outdoor movie night. You could have the kids float in the pool, get cozy on the trampoline, lay out blankets on the ground or sit in some lawn chair! Have fun with snack and memories

 

Progressive Dinner

A progressive dinner is a fun and social way to share a meal by moving from house to house (or room to room) for different courses. Typically, one home hosts appetizers, another serves the main course, and a third provides dessert, but you can add more stops for drinks, salads, or even games. To keep things smooth, plan a theme, coordinate menus in advance so dishes complement each other, and set a loose schedule so guests know when to move to the next location. The best part is that no one host carries the entire burden, and guests get a change of scenery and conversation throughout the night, making it a lively and memorable dining experience.

 

Paint and Sip

A paint and sip party is the perfect mix of creativity and fun, whether you host it at home, outdoors, or even in a rented space. Set up tables with easels, canvases, brushes, and paints for each guest, and cover the area with drop cloths or butcher paper to make cleanup easy. You can follow along with a step-by-step painting tutorial (either by hiring a local artist or streaming one online), or let everyone paint freely with a fun theme—like flowers, sunsets, or abstract designs. Add an apron or paint smock for each person to make it feel official and keep clothes safe.

For the “sip” side of things, offer a variety of drinks—wine and cocktails for the adults, plus mocktails, sparkling water, or fancy juices for non-drinkers. Pair them with light snacks or a charcuterie board that guests can graze on while they paint. You could even make it themed, like tropical drinks with beach paintings or cozy fall cocktails with autumn scenes. To end the night, set up a little “art show” where everyone can display their masterpiece for photos and laughs. It’s a relaxing, social, and memorable way to spend time together while letting creativity flow!

 

Trampoline Park

Fun get togethers don’t always involve hosting them at your house, simply by getting everyone together and going somewhere fun is all that is needed. So get the gang together and go out to a fun trampoline park. Let the kids burn off all that energy

 

Geo Catching

A geocaching party is a fantastic way to mix adventure, teamwork, and the thrill of a treasure hunt! If you have never done geocaching, go out and find a few and learn how it works. Then start hiding your own for your friends. You want to start by hiding small trinkets, toys, or treats in waterproof containers around, neighborhood, or a nearby park, then mark their coordinates or create simple maps and clues for guests to follow. Have each friend to download a geocaching app to track down the hidden treasures. You can make it extra fun by adding riddles or challenges they must solve before moving to the next cache. Finish the party with a “treasure chest” grand prize for everyone to enjoy together, like snacks, glow sticks, or party favors. It’s a perfect blend of outdoor fun, problem-solving, and friendly competition!

 

 

SEPTEMBER

 

 

Pumpkin Carving

A pumpkin carving night is the perfect way to celebrate fall with family and friends! Start by setting up long tables covered with disposable tablecloths or kraft paper to catch all the pumpkin mess. Provide carving kits, markers, spoons, and stencils so everyone has what they need. You can make it more fun by setting up a carving contest with categories like “scariest,” “funniest,” or “most creative.” If you want a low-mess option for younger kids, add a pumpkin painting station with paints, stickers, and googly eyes so everyone can join in.

For food and atmosphere, lean into cozy fall vibes—serve apple cider, hot chocolate, and autumn snacks like caramel apples, pumpkin cookies, or chili in bread bowls. Light some fall-scented candles or string up twinkle lights to make the space warm and festive. Once the pumpkins are finished, line them up, light them, and let everyone admire each other’s creations. You could even end the night with a family-friendly Halloween movie or a spooky story around a fire pit. It’s a simple tradition that brings people together for laughs, creativity, and plenty of fall fun!

 

 

Pumpkin Painting

A pumpkin painting night is a great way to enjoy all the fun of pumpkin decorating without the mess of carving! Set up a workspace the same as with the pumpkin carving and give each guest their own pumpkin, brushes, and paints. You can provide stencils, painter’s tape, or sponges for fun designs, along with extras like glitter, stickers, or googly eyes for extra flair. To add some friendly competition, create categories like “most colorful,” “spookiest,” or “silliest face” and let everyone vote on their favorites. This activity works for all ages—kids can go wild with bright colors while adults can try more detailed or themed designs.

 

Fall Baking and Movie Night

Gather your friends and do a fall baking night! Bake some pumpkin treats, maybe some sugar cookies and let everyone have fun decorating the cookies. You can have a fun decorating station with different color icing, sprinkles, maybe some candies such as M&Ms. Then turn on the TV and watch a movie with your friends while you eat your cookies and baked goods

 

Glow In the Dark Party

A glow-in-the-dark party is all about creating a vibrant, high-energy atmosphere where everything shines under blacklights! Start by setting up your space with blacklights, glow sticks, and neon decorations—think balloons, streamers, and posters that pop under UV light. Hand out glow-in-the-dark accessories like bracelets, necklaces, face paint, or LED glasses as guests arrive so everyone feels part of the theme right away. You can even provide plain white T-shirts and highlighters for a fun activity where guests “draw” on each other’s shirts and watch their designs light up.

For activities, turn on some upbeat music and host a glow dance-off, neon limbo, or even glow-in-the-dark games like ring toss or bowling with LED glow sticks inside bottles. Food and drinks can also add to the fun—serve neon-colored punch, cupcakes with glowing cotton candy toppers, or snacks displayed under blacklight trays. To wrap things up, create a photo booth with glowing props so guests can capture the night’s best moments. Whether it’s for kids, teens, or adults, a glow-in-the-dark party brings a playful twist that feels both magical and unforgettable!

 

Museum Visit

Not only Is planning parties fun but it is also fun to go out with your friends, mom friends and let the kids go to a local museum. It could be an art museum, children’s museum or something that you are learning about

 

Visit a Farm

Going to the farm is always fun in the fall. Feeding animals, going to a farm to do a corn maze, pick out a pumpkin and do all the fun fall activities is a great memory you can make with a group of friends!

 

OCTOBER

 

 

Halloween Costume Dance Party

Have all your friends come over dressed up as their favorite character. You can give out awards for the best dressed, best couple, scariest and so on.. Have some light snacks available then turn the lights down and have a fun dance party!

 

Halloween Movie Night

Since it is October, you have to make the most of the fall season so choose a movie everyone would enjoy. There are all kinds of Halloween movies to choose from such as our kid favorite is Hocus Pocus, Scooby Doo, Casper or Hotel Transylvania

 

Glow in the Dark Egg Hunt

A glow in the dark egg hunt is a spooktacular twist on a classic Easter tradition and makes the perfect Halloween party activity! Start by filling plastic eggs with glow sticks, LED tea lights, or candy wrapped in neon tape, you can even buy glow in the dark eggs!! Scatter them around your yard, house, or even a darkened room. Hand out glow bracelets, necklaces, or flashlights to each guest so they can hunt safely while adding to the glowing atmosphere. You can turn it into a contest by awarding prizes for the most eggs found, the biggest egg, or even a “golden glow egg.” Add some spooky decorations, black lights, and Halloween music to set the mood, and you’ll have a party that mixes the thrill of a hunt with the fun of a glowing, slightly spooky Halloween adventure!

 

Arcades

Getting out of the house and hosting a party that isn’t at your house is sometimes hard to do. So that is why I added in some extra group ideas you can do with a group of friends. Why not meet up at your local arcade and let the kids or the adults play some games. Try looking for unlimited games for an hour or so and let the kids have fun challenging each other to different games.

 

Holiday Craft Night

Get on Pinterest and come up with a fun Fall/ or Christmas craft you can do with your group of friends. Choose different ones and let everyone vote or have an easy craft everyone can do. Provide the supplies or make a list of everything needed and let people choose something to bring to contribute to the night!

 

 

Boo Baskets

A Boo Basket making party is a creative and festive way to celebrate Halloween while spreading some spooky cheer to friends and neighbors. Set up a table with small baskets, gift bags, or buckets, and provide a variety of fun fillers like candy, stickers, glow sticks, small toys, Halloween socks, or homemade treats. Encourage guests to bring some of their own items to add variety, then let everyone build a few baskets to take home and secretly deliver to someone special with a “You’ve Been Boo’d” note. Add some Halloween music, themed snacks, and a simple craft like decorating the baskets or making cards to include, and you’ve got a party that’s equal parts fun, crafty, and filled with the spirit of giving.

 

 

NOVEMBER

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Friendsgiving

A Friendsgiving party is a warm and cozy way to gather your favorite people and celebrate friendship before the holiday rush. Start by creating a welcoming atmosphere with fall-themed décor like pumpkins, candles, string lights, and a big dining table (or a few pushed together) for a family-style meal. To keep it stress-free, make it a potluck and assign dishes so you get a good mix of classics—like turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, and pies—without doubling up. You could also set up a “signature drink” station with apple cider, sangria, or hot cocoa for a festive touch.

For fun, add some activities that spark laughter and gratitude. You could play a gratitude game where everyone shares something they’re thankful for, set up a photo booth with fall props, or even host a pie-tasting contest. If your group is more low-key, a simple playlist of cozy fall tunes in the background is enough to set the mood while everyone enjoys the food and conversation. To end the night, send guests home with leftovers in festive to-go boxes—because no Friendsgiving is complete without next-day turkey sandwiches!

 

Holiday Craft Night

Hosting al craft night with your friends is a fun way to combine creativity and quality time together. Start by choosing a few simple seasonal crafts that everyone can enjoy, like painting pumpkins, making wreaths with autumn leaves and ribbon, or creating mason jar candle holders with fall decorations. Since it is close to Christmas you could add in some Christmas crafts to do instead.

Gather all the supplies ahead of time and set them up in stations so guests can rotate between projects or focus on one they love most. Cover your tables with kraft paper or a disposable cloth to make cleanup easy, and add jars of paintbrushes, glue, and scissors within reach to keep things organized.

To make the night extra fun light a few pumpkin or apple-scented candles, and serve autumn treats like warm cider, spiced cookies, or a cheese and charcuterie board. Encourage everyone to bring a snack or drink to share, turning it into a potluck-style evening. You can even end the night with a little “show and tell,” where each person shares their finished craft and maybe even trades creations. It’s not just about the crafts—it’s about laughter, conversation, and making memories together in a creative setting.

 

Gingerbread Making Night

Making gingerbread houses is such a fun tradition I love to do. I always try to make one every year with my kids. Have everyone to bring over their own gingerbread kit. You could provide extra candy, icing and add in some fun contests to make it interesting. Play some Christmas music, and fun decorations and you have a fun party!

 

Cookie Exchange

We are in the baking season of the year so baking some fall or Christmas cookies is a fun activity. A Cookie making and exchange party is the perfect blend of baking, fun, and holiday cheer. Invite friends or family over and have each person bring their favorite cookie recipe and ingredients, or prepare dough ahead of time so you can bake together. Set up a decorating station with icing, sprinkles, candies, and festive cutters for extra fun. Once the cookies are baked and decorated, create a festive display and let everyone fill a box or tin with a mix of different cookies to take home. Add to the cozy atmosphere with Christmas music, hot cocoa, and maybe even a friendly contest for “Most Creative Cookie” or “Best Decorated.” Guests leave with a sweet assortment of holiday treats—and lots of warm memories

Activities & Fun Add-Ons

• Cookie Decorating Contest – Create categories like Most Creative, Funniest, Best Christmas Theme, or Most Delicious. Hand out little prizes (ornaments, candy canes, or holiday mugs).

• Ugly Sweater Theme – Ask everyone to come in their best (or worst!) Christmas sweater for added fun.

• Cookie Recipe Swap – Have everyone bring printed recipe cards to share so guests can try baking their favorites at home.

• Christmas Bingo or Trivia – Play a few lighthearted games while cookies bake in the oven.

• Hot Cocoa & Coffee Bar – Offer toppings like whipped cream, marshmallows, peppermint sticks, cinnamon, and sprinkles.

 

Bowling

Each month I have tried to add in a fun idea to do with the group other than hosting an at home party! Going bowling is fun to do with a group and usually pretty cheap.

 

Carmel Apple Decorating Party

A caramel apple making party is a sweet and festive way to celebrate Fall with friends and family. Set up a dipping station with melted caramel and chocolate, and provide apples on sticks ready to go. Create a topping bar filled with crushed cookies, sprinkles, mini candies, chopped nuts, pretzels, and even drizzles of white or dark chocolate so everyone can customize their apple masterpiece. To keep things fun and mess-free, lay out parchment paper for cooling and have take-home bags or boxes so guests can enjoy their creations later. Add in some fall décor, music, and themed snacks, and you’ll have a party that’s equal parts delicious, hands on, and memorable.

 

DECEMBER

 

Holiday Lights Tour

A Christmas Holiday Light Tour is such a magical way to enjoy the holiday season with family or friends! To throw one, start by planning a route—either driving through neighborhoods known for their incredible displays, visiting local Christmas light shows, or booking a bus if you want to go big. Send out an invite and encourage everyone to dress festively in Christmas pajamas, sweaters, or even bring Santa hats for the ride. Pack a “tour kit” with hot cocoa in travel mugs, Christmas cookies, or snack boxes to enjoy along the way. Create a holiday playlist to play in the car and even make it interactive by printing out “Christmas Light Bingo” cards with things like Santa inflatables, reindeer, or a nativity scene for everyone to spot. End the night with a cozy stop at home (or a friend’s house) for dessert, holiday movies, or exchanging small stocking stuffers. It’s a simple but unforgettable way to make holiday memories!

 

Christmas Ornament Making / Exchange

A Christmas Ornament Making and Exchange party is a creative and fun way to celebrate the season with adults or kids. To host, set up a crafting station with clear ornaments, paint pens, glitter, ribbons, stickers, and other supplies so everyone can design their own unique ornament. Once the ornaments are finished, let them dry while you enjoy holiday treats, hot cocoa, or play Christmas music and games. At the end of the night, do an ornament exchange, either by drawing names, playing a fun swap game like “White Elephant,” or simply trading with another guest. Not only do guests get to enjoy a fun evening of crafting, but they also leave with a handmade keepsake and a special memory from the night.

 

Gift Wrapping Night / Hot Coco Bar

 

For a fun and festive girls’ night, host a gift-wrapping party where everyone brings their gifts and wrapping supplies. Turn what’s usually one of the most stressful holiday tasks into a cozy evening with friends. Not only will you get your wrapping done, but you’ll also pick up inspiration by seeing what others are gifting their kids, spouses, or parents. If you finish early, you can jump in to help a friend, making the night even more collaborative and fun. Set the mood with a Christmas movie playing in the background or a playlist of holiday classics, and offer a hot cocoa bar with toppings like whipped cream, peppermint sticks, and marshmallows. Add in some festive snacks like cookies, cheese trays, or holiday popcorn—to make it a relaxing and laughter filled night you’ll want to repeat every year.

 

Christmas Movie Night with Themed Snacks and Decor

A Christmas movie night is the perfect way to celebrate the season with cozy vibes, themed snacks, and festive décor. Start by picking a lineup of holiday classics like Home Alone, Elf, The Polar Express, or How the Grinch Stole Christmas. Create a cozy viewing area with lots of blankets, pillows, twinkling string lights, and maybe even a mini hot cocoa station. To make the night extra special, tie the snacks and décor to the movies you’re watching so guests feel like they’ve stepped right into the holiday magic.

Here are a few fun themed ideas:

1. Home Alone – Serve “Kevin’s Cheese Pizza” cut into bite-sized squares and set out “aftershave punch” (a fun mocktail with fizz).

2. Elf – Create Buddy’s “four main food groups” snack bar with candy, candy canes, candy corn, and syrup-inspired treats.

3. The Polar Express – Have a hot cocoa bar with marshmallows, whipped cream, sprinkles, and candy cane stir sticks, just like in the movie.

4. How the Grinch Stole Christmas – Make “Grinch Popcorn” by drizzling green candy melts over popcorn and topping it with red M&M’s.

5. Frosty the Snowman – Serve snowman marshmallow pops or powdered donut “snowballs.”

Mix in a Christmas trivia game between movies or set up a simple photo booth with Santa hats and reindeer antlers for extra fun. With themed snacks, cozy decorations, and a festive movie lineup, your Christmas Movie Night will feel like a magical holiday tradition everyone will look forward to year after year.

 

 

Laser Tag

 

If you don’t want to host a party at your house then have everyone to meet up at a fun indoor location such as laser tag and let the kids and parents have fun shooting at each other. You could then go out to lunch with everyone and have a nice afternoon with one another.

 

I hope this blog post helped you come up with some ideas of your own and inspires you to throw the party and get your friends together!!

ENJOY