Hosting a holiday party for teens is the perfect way to celebrate the season! This mom’s guide will help you plan a fun celebration filled with festive activities, exciting games, and delicious treats. Whether you’re looking for creative ways to decorate or ideas to keep teens entertained, this ultimate guide covers everything you need to make their holiday party unforgettable. With these simple tips, your teen’s holiday party will be a celebration they’ll always remember! With minimal effort, you can create a night filled with laughter, games, and holiday cheer.

Party Welcome: Start with a Festive Entrance

Make a great first impression with fun, oversized holiday decorations. A life-sized Buddy the Elf cardboard cutout or a giant inflatable snowman adds instant holiday charm. We recently bought this singing Santa and it would be so fun for a teen party too. Teens will love snapping photos and sharing them on social media.

For a warm welcome, set up a drink station with hot chocolate, apple cider or a “Rudolph Spritz.” This festive punch combines Sprite and cranberry juice, garnished with a cherry! It’s easy to make and keeps the holiday cheer going right from the start.

A Simple, Teen-Approved Menu

When it comes to feeding teens, simple classics are the way to go. Here’s a no-fuss menu that’s guaranteed to please:

• Chicken nugget tray with a variety of dipping sauces like ranch, BBQ, and honey mustard.
• Order pizzas from their favorite spot—stick with classics like pepperoni, cheese, and sausage.
• Chips and dip, including queso or guacamole, for easy snacking.
• Veggie cups with ranch for a healthier option that’s still easy to grab and go.

Holiday Dessert Bar

Finish with a holiday dessert bar featuring cookies, brownies, and cupcakes. You can even purchase these items from your favorite local bakery to make things super easy. Place the desserts on different platters and you have a super simple buffet. Teens also love cookie cakes! You can order a festive cookie cake from a local bakery, topped with holiday-themed decorations like Christmas trees or a snowmen. Last year I did this for my teen son and his church friends and they devoured the cookie cake! Include a hot cocoa station with toppings like whipped cream, peppermint sticks, and mini marshmallows for a sweet, interactive treat.

In our family, it’s a Christmas tradition to keep bowls of Hershey Kisses, candy canes, and gingerbread men around the house. Teens love grabbing a quick treat, and it makes the whole house feel festive during a party.

Games and Activities: Keep It Fun

For activities at your holiday party for teens, provide a mix of indoor activities to keep teens entertained. Set up Christmas-themed games like “Minute to Win It” challenges, such as stacking Christmas cookies or balancing ornaments on a spoon. You could also organize a holiday trivia game with questions about classic Christmas movies and songs. For a creative touch, set up a gingerbread house decorating station or host a holiday-themed Pictionary using festive words and phrases.

For a more laid-back option, create a cozy corner with hot chocolate and cookies, along with a holiday movie playing in the background. Classics like Home Alone or Elf are always a hit.

White Elephant Gift Game: A Crowd Favorite

End the night with a white elephant gift exchange. Set a budget and encourage guests to bring funny or quirky gifts. From gag gifts to cozy socks, the mix of presents makes for a fun and lighthearted game. Teens love the excitement of unwrapping and swapping, and it’s a perfect way to wrap up the evening.

Special Activities for Girls and Boys

For Girls:
Set up a cookie decorating station with pre-baked holiday cookies, frosting, and sprinkles. Another great option is a simple craft table where they can make ornaments or holiday-themed bracelets.

For Boys:
Create a movie lounge with comfortable seating and holiday movie favorites. Pair it with bowls of popcorn and movie candy. Boys also enjoy the white elephant game, especially when the gifts include funny or useful items like socks with jokes or small gadgets.

Keep it Simple and Fun

Hosting a holiday party for teens doesn’t have to be complicated. With a simple menu, fun games, and a festive atmosphere, you’ll create an evening they’ll love—and you’ll enjoy, too. These are the years to savor, and a teen holiday party is a perfect way to make the most of the season.