Christmas Themed Parties!

I love this time of year and I love themed parties, so it's a perfect combination.  I wanted to share some of my favorite Christmas parties that I've been invited to or have co-hosted over the years.

The Christmas Tea Ornament Exchange
Up until this year I've co-hosted this party for the past 10 of 11 years - in Indiana, in Memphis, and in Mexico.  It's traveled with me!  Everyone brings a dish to share and a wrapped ornament for an ornament exchange.  It's always a great time.  This year my co-host and I decided not to host the tea because she was traveling and we just couldn't find a good time.  We might pick it back up next year though.

Book Exchange
For the past 5 years we've had a Christmas get-together with two other families during December.  There are 7 children among us.  We draw names for a book exchange among the kids.  We usually do something in addition like gingerbread houses or another Christmas craft.  This year we are going to have the party in January because of travel schedules and all the kids have been asking when, when, when - they love this party!

Cookie Exchange
Friends in town host a cookie exchange every year.  Everyone brings a plate of homemade cookies.  We all enjoy sampling different cookies along with mulled cider and hot cocoa.  The kids all play in the awesome basement playroom (which is really 4 large rooms) while the adults catch up upstairs.  Then when it's time to go, our hosts give each family a nice Christmas plate and we make a platter of mixed cookies to take home with us.  Of course, everyone loves this party!

Open House
Another family in town hosts an open house each year.  No kids so it's a lot of fun.  The food is incredible.  It's a great chance to catch up with people that we don't see that often - sometimes just at the open house each year.  Very relaxing and a great way to kick off the holidays since it's held the first Friday of December each year.

Christmas Card Party
Another friend hosts a casual get together at her home in December.  Everyone comes in sweats or jeans.  We snack, talk, and everyone finishes addressing, stamping, licking, writing their Christmas cards.  I usually have mine done and in the mail by the time this party rolls around, but it's still fun to drop by and see everyone!

Gift Wrapping Party
While I haven't attended before, a friend hosts a gift wrapping party on the 23rd of the month.  Usually by this time the kids are out of school and all the presents need to be wrapped.  Everyone brings their own supplies and spends the evening snacking, chatting, and wrapping gifts.  We're usually traveling south by the 23rd but one day I would love to attend this gathering.  I hear it's a great way to get gift ideas for next year's Christmas or upcoming birthdays!

Love this time of year! 
Merry Christmas!