5 clever holiday parties to throw for your Montreal friends

Whether you choose to ring in the season with a blowout party or a box of wine and a Netflix special, you can’t deny that winter is a time for celebration, friends and family, and a little good-hearted indulgence.

But even if you’re the hosting type, the idea of scheduling a holiday get-together in an already full calendar can be overwhelming. The good news is that there are many ways you can still squeeze in your own yuletide bash — without breaking the bank.

This is the time of year when every penny counts, and thankfully, a lot can be done with a little DIY and budget-friendly party supplies. Check out local thrift stores like Value Village®, and you won’t have to spend loads of money to have a fabulous gathering. With locations across the city, there’s bound to be a store nearby.

If you’re looking for ideas for your holiday party theme, here are a few unique ways to celebrate the season (and escape the Montreal cold) this year.

Christmas cocktail party

Once the rum and eggnog has outstayed its welcome, it’s time to whip up some jolly new drink recipes to ring in the season with. Invite some pals over and request that each person (or pair) invent their own holiday-themed cocktail — and bring enough for everyone else to try, of course.

Inspired by the Christmas pop-up bars that have been delighting Montrealers since 2016, this theme will finally allow you to use all those bad holiday puns you’ve been saving up. Scrooge sour, anyone?

Retro ski party

Haven’t made it up to Mont-Tremblant yet this season? We’ve got something even better for you. This retro ski-themed bash will be sure to delight party guests, even if they’ve never hit the slopes. Prepare for the big night by thrifting neon 80s snowsuits, vibrant headbands, and wild patterns — the more colour, the better. You’ll even be able to bring the party outside with all your pals bundled up in their retro ski finest.

Ugly sweater party

Yes, it’s been done before, but it’s a holiday classic for a reason. Who doesn’t love to bust out a truly ridiculous sweater to amuse their friends? Plus, since ugly sweaters don’t get that much love the rest of the year, it makes total sense to buy one second-hand and save it from going into a landfill.

Make your party stand out by going even further with a twist on this classic theme, such as ’90s or cat lady-themed sweaters. Alternatively, motivate guests to turn the sweater wearing into a contest (judged by the host, of course) in which the ugliest sweater wearer receives a prize.

Winter craft-ernoon

Let your inner Martha Stewart shine by hosting a holiday craft-ernoon. Pick an easy craft, like building a gingerbread house or crafting a paper snowflake chain, grab the supplies in advance, then get your friends together and get to work.

The materials don’t have to break the bank, either — many stores sell pre-made craft kits for a great price. Check out Value Village®’s Super Savers Club™ program to find out how to save even more on your party materials. And if you’re lost for craft ideas, pop by the Montreal Christmas Market for a little inspiration.

Hot chocolate pajama party

Who says pajama parties are just for kids? Get cozy and invite everyone over for a pajama party, complete with a mug of hot chocolatey goodness. By stocking up on things like candy canes, cinnamon sticks, and toffee bits ahead of time, it’ll be easy to assemble a hot chocolate bar for when your guests arrive. You should also consider picking up some inexpensive mugs for your flannel-clad festivities, and let your guests keep them as party favours.

Hosting a holiday party is a great excuse to get all your friends together and out of the snow, and you don’t have to shell out much cash to make it a success! Plus, themed parties are a more intimate and memorable way to celebrate the season than grabbing a drink or a bite to eat, so hunker in and keep the good times rolling.