A Christmas cookie decorating party is a fun tradition, whether it’s a small family gathering or inviting friends. Each year, our family looks forward to this special time together, filled with fun and creativity. I love making memories with my loved ones, so I usually choose premade cookies from a local bakery to keep things simple.

I’m excited to share some practical tips for your own cookie decorating party. Don’t forget to download the checklist at the end of the post- I hope it’s helpful! Here’s to making sweet memories this holiday season With a little planning, you can create a fun and polished gathering that’s easy to set up and enjoy. Here’s how to make it both stress-free and special.

Easy Invitations with an E-vite

Simplify the planning by sending e-vites instead of traditional paper invitations. Online invitations save time and give you the chance to include party details in a creative, easy-to-send format.

Simple and Cute Decorations

Elevate the party with easy holiday décor. A string of twinkle lights and a festive table runner can instantly create a warm, holiday vibe. Add a small, pre-lit Christmas tree nearby, decorated with simple ornaments. Keep things chic by sticking to a holiday color palette that complements your icing colors.

Keep It Simple with Store-Bought Cookies

Skip the hassle of baking and purchase plain sugar or gingerbread cookies from your local bakery. Pre-made cookies allow you to focus on decorating without worrying about the baking process or cleanup. Some bakeries offer holiday cookie decorating kits that include undecorated cookies, icing, and sprinkles in a premade box—making it a super easy way to host the party with minimal prep!

Another option is to use store-bought premade dough, already rolled out and ready to go, so kids can easily use cookie cutters to create their favorite shapes.Choose classic holiday shapes like trees, stars, and stockings for a festive look.

Set Up an Easy Decorating Station

Create a decorating station that’s simple yet looks organized. Use small bowls for pre-made icing, sprinkles, and candy toppings. Choose a color scheme, like red, green, and white, for a cohesive look. Include squeeze bottles of icing and spreaders so even younger kids can join the fun with minimal mess.

Essential Serveware for Your Cookie Decorating Party

When hosting a cookie decorating party, it’s essential to have plenty of cookie platters and tiered plates on hand. This way, guests can have access to cookies for decorating. Later, they can showcase their creations beautifully on a small take home platter. I think these small wood boards are a great party favor for guests to take their cookies home on. I also love adding fun tableware that matches the festive spirit—think cheerful plates, vibrant napkins, and colorful cups. Having everything ready helps keep the focus on enjoying the moment and making memories, rather than scrambling to find supplies. With the right setup, your decorating station will feel inviting and special for everyone involved!

Fun Drinks and Snacks to Keep Kids Happy

Along with decorating, set up a drink station with hot chocolate, milk, and holiday-themed cups. Add fun details like festive straws or stirrers. Offer a light snack spread, such as a cheese and fruit platter, pretzels, and mini candy canes, keeping the focus on cookie decorating.

Party Favors and Aprons

Personalized aprons are a fun way to make the kids feel special. Provide holiday-themed aprons they can wear while decorating, which double as party favors. Another great favor idea is sending the kids home with their beautifully decorated cookies. You can use holiday-themed treat boxes or bags, making it easy for kids to take their creations home.

Fun Ideas for Tweens & Teens at Your Cookie Decorating Party

To make the party extra fun for tweens and teens, add a creative competition element. Set up a cookie decorating contest with categories like “Most Creative,” “Best Holiday Theme,” or “Funniest Design.” Let them vote for their favorites or use a simple scoring system to choose winners. Offer prizes like fun baking tools or holiday-themed goodies. For extra excitement, include a White Elephant gift exchange where everyone brings a small, wrapped item to swap—this adds a playful and entertaining twist to the party. Teens will enjoy the friendly competition and interactive fun!

Easy Clean-Up for Kids Christmas Cookie Decorating Party

Use disposable tablecloths, paper plates, and napkins to make cleaning up a breeze. Keep a small trash bin nearby for easy disposal of wrappers and napkins. Have wet wipes ready for sticky fingers. Aprons for little ones are also a must!

To-Do List: How to Prepare for the Party

Here’s a simple checklist to prepare for your cookie decorating party. You can download it here:

Cooking Decorating Party Checklist

I hope these tips help make your Christmas cookie decorating party a festive hit! I’ve linked my favorite items throughout this post, with even more ideas shared below. Happy hosting!