Holiday party countdown checklist

5 weeks out

• Pick the date (weeknights and the first two weekends of December are easiest to fill)
• Decide the format: open house, cocktail party, cookie swap, Secret Santa
• Send the invite with an RSVP date and any gift-swap rules

3 weeks out

• Plan the food: mostly bites people eat standing up
• Pick a signature drink and a non-alcoholic one
• Order decorations, napkins and anything for a gift swap

1 week out

• Confirm the headcount and remind anyone in the swap
• Buy drinks, ice and pantry items
• Plan where coats, bags and gifts go
• Make the playlist

2 days out

• Make anything that freezes or keeps: cookies, dips, cheese balls
• Decorate

1 day out

• Shop for fresh food and flowers
• Set up the drink station and serving pieces with labels

Day of

• Plate the food, fill the ice bucket, light candles
• Put out a small trash and recycling spot guests can find

After

• Send photos and thank-yous