Friendsmas Party Ideas (2025): Creative Themes, Food & Fun to Celebrate Your Chosen Family in Style

Looking for the ultimate friendsmas party ideas to make this holiday season unforgettable? Friendsmas (or “friendmas”) is the perfect way to celebrate the holidays with your chosen family—your besties.

Whether you’re hosting a laid-back night of board games or an all-out themed dinner party, having the right friendsmas theme ideas and friendsmas food ideas makes all the difference.

In this post, you’ll discover a full collection of festive, fun, and fabulous friendmas party ideas that suit every vibe—cozy, glam, quirky, or classic. Let’s plan the kind of holiday celebration your squad will talk about all year!

1. Friendsmas Theme Ideas

Setting a theme is the heartbeat of your Friendsmas celebration. Whether you’re going for nostalgic fun, sleek sophistication, or something totally outside the box, a well-chosen theme ties everything together—from decor and dress code to activities and menu planning. Here are some of the most creative and crowd-pleasing friendsmas theme ideas for 2025.

Related: 12 Days of Christmas Games: Fun and Festive Ideas for Everyone

1.1 Ugly Sweater Soirée

A timeless favorite and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The ugly sweater party is all about bringing laughter, nostalgia, and over-the-top holiday vibes to your Friendsmas.

How to Nail It:

• Dress Code: Invite guests to don their most outrageous holiday sweaters—think LED lights, jingling bells, glitter, and pom-poms.
  
• Fashion Show Fun: Host a mini runway show where friends can strut their stuff. Offer fun categories like “Most Hideous,” “Most Festive,” and “DIY Disaster.”
  
• Decor: Embrace kitsch—tinsel, oversized candy canes, retro wrapping paper as table runners, and inflatable snowmen.
  
• Photo Booth: Set up a wall with wrapping paper and props like elf hats, reindeer antlers, and “naughty or nice” signs.

1.2 Winter Wonderland

Turn your home into a glistening snow globe with this dreamy, minimalist theme that screams elegance.

Elements to Include:

• Color Palette: Stick to white, silver, icy blue, and crystal accents.
  
• Decor: Use faux snow, snowflake decals, LED icicle lights, and glittering table settings.
  
• Ambience: Soft instrumental holiday music, pine-scented candles, and snowflake projection lights.
  
• Dress Code: White outfits, metallic dresses, faux fur, and sparkle.
  

Perfect for a formal or semi-formal Friendsmas event.

1.3 Pajama Party

For those who believe Friendsmas should feel like home, a pajama-themed gathering is relaxed, intimate, and utterly cozy.

Make It Extra Cozy:

• Dress Code: Everyone wears holiday-themed pajamas, slippers, and cozy socks.
  
• Set the Scene: Throw blankets, floor pillows, fairy lights, and a roaring (or virtual) fireplace.
  
• Activities:
  
  • Holiday movie marathon
    
  • DIY s’mores station
    
  • Hot cocoa bar with adult add-ins like Bailey’s or peppermint schnapps
    
  • Cookie decorating
    

Great for sleepovers or low-key hangouts with your closest circle.

1.4 Friendsmas Around the World

Celebrate diversity with a globe-trotting twist by highlighting holiday traditions and cuisines from different cultures.

How to Host It:

• Potluck Format: Assign each guest or group a country (e.g., Italy, Mexico, Japan, Sweden) and ask them to bring a traditional holiday dish from that culture.
  
• Decor: Create global flair with flags, international garlands, or ornaments from around the world.
  
• Invitations: Send creative boarding pass invites or printable “passports” with space for stamps.
  
• Fun Add-on: Share short blurbs about the dishes or holiday customs as part of the table setting.

1.5 Holiday Masquerade

For a sophisticated, enchanting evening, this glam Friendsmas theme adds a luxurious layer of mystery.

Elegant Vibes Only:

• Dress Code: Cocktail attire with festive masks (gold, red, or jewel tones).
  
• Lighting: Dim, warm lighting using candles, chandeliers, or Edison bulbs.
  
• Decor: Velvet tablecloths, golden cutlery, sequin runners, and mirror centerpieces.
  
• Entertainment: Slow jazz playlist, tarot card reader, or a champagne toast at midnight.
  

Ideal for an adults-only Friendsmas with a formal or black-tie dress code.

2. Friendsmas Food Ideas

Food is the centerpiece of any memorable Friendsmas celebration. From easy-to-share appetizers to globally inspired meals and decadent desserts, planning your Friendsmas menu with creativity ensures your guests leave full and happy.

Here are some friendsmas food ideas across different formats to suit your party size, vibe, and kitchen skills.

2.1 Potluck-Style Feast

Potlucks are perfect for large gatherings and sharing the cooking load. Plus, everyone gets to show off their signature dish!

How to Organize:

• Create a shared spreadsheet or group chat for signups.
  
• Assign categories: mains, sides, salads, desserts, drinks.
  
• Suggest seasonal favorites that are easy to prep and transport.
  

Ideas to Bring:

• Honey-glazed ham or spiced turkey
  
• Creamy mashed potatoes with gravy
  
• Roasted root vegetables with herbs
  
• Baked mac and cheese with a crunchy topping
  
• Classic stuffing and cranberry sauce
  
• Festive Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze

2.2 Appetizer-Only Menu

Perfect for mingling-style events or if you’re tight on space and seating.

Serving Tip: Use tiered trays and large grazing boards for a stunning visual presentation.

Tasty Appetizers:

• Mini quiches or tarts
  
• Stuffed mushrooms with cream cheese and herbs
  
• Pigs in a blanket with mustard dips
  
• Holiday deviled eggs (dyed red and green or topped with paprika)
  
• Crostini with goat cheese, fig jam, or cranberry compote
  
• Cheese and charcuterie board with seasonal fruits and nuts

2.3 Sweet Treat Spread

Celebrate the sugar rush! Set up a dessert table full of friendsmas dessert ideas that will have everyone snapping pics before biting in.

Must-Have Treats:

• Gingerbread men or house kits
  
• Eggnog cheesecake bars
  
• Peppermint bark with crushed candy canes
  
• Hot chocolate cupcakes with whipped cream and sprinkles
  
• Yule log cake with marzipan mushrooms
  
• Snowball cookies, fudge brownies, or cinnamon rolls
  

Pro Tip: Offer to-go boxes so guests can take some goodies home.

2.4 DIY Food Bars

Food bars give guests the freedom to build their own plates—perfect for picky eaters or dietary restrictions.

Build-Your-Own Bar Ideas:

• Taco Bar: Offer seasoned meats, black beans, rice, salsas, sour cream, cheese, and lettuce.
  
• Baked Potato Bar: Serve baked potatoes with toppings like shredded cheese, bacon bits, sour cream, green onions, and chili.
  
• Hot Cocoa Bar: Include flavored syrups (peppermint, caramel, hazelnut), whipped cream, crushed candy canes, cinnamon sticks, and mini marshmallows.
  
• Dessert Bar: Let guests decorate sugar cookies, gingerbread people, or cupcakes. Provide icing, sprinkles, chocolate chips, and edible glitter.

2.5 Themed Drinks

Make your Friendsmas party ideas stand out with a themed beverage station featuring both boozy and non-alcoholic drinks.

Festive Cocktails & Mocktails:

• Spiked Eggnog: Creamy, classic, and cozy—top with nutmeg and cinnamon sticks.
  
• Cranberry Mimosas: Mix prosecco with cranberry juice and garnish with fresh cranberries and rosemary.
  
• Apple Cider Bourbon Punch: Warm and spiced, ideal for chilly evenings.
  
• Peppermint White Russians: A minty twist on a creamy favorite.
  
• Non-Alcoholic Peppermint Mocha: Use plant-based milk, peppermint extract, and dark chocolate syrup for a caffeine boost with holiday flair.
  
• Holiday Punch Bowl: Combine ginger ale, orange juice, cranberry juice, and sliced citrus for a refreshing crowd-pleaser.
  

Bonus Tip: Use themed glasses or custom labels for added charm. Think: “Reinbeer,” “Santa’s Sangria,” or “Elf Elixir.”

3. Friendsmas party ideas decorations & Atmosphere

Creating the perfect vibe is what transforms your Friendsmas from a simple get-together to a warm, memorable celebration. Your decor should reflect your chosen theme while making guests feel cozy and festive.

3.1 Cozy Cabin Vibes

Perfect for pajama parties and relaxed evenings with your best friends.

Decor Elements:

• Buffalo plaid table runners and throw pillows
  
• Pinecones, mini evergreen trees, and rustic candle holders
  
• Mason jar lanterns with tea lights or string lights
  
• Faux fur blankets draped over seating areas
  
• Fireplace (real or virtual video on screen)

3.2 Minimalist Magic

For a chic and calming Friendsmas that still feels seasonal.

Decor Elements:

• A soft palette of white, beige, and gold
  
• Simple wooden ornaments and dried citrus garlands
  
• Scandinavian-inspired greenery like eucalyptus or olive branches
  
• Clean table settings with linen napkins
  
• Unscented pillar candles and clear glass vases

3.3 Traditional Holiday Charm

Classic red, green, and gold never go out of style.

Decor Elements:

• Twinkle lights, garlands, and traditional stockings
  
• Nutcracker figurines and snow globes
  
• Holiday wreaths and poinsettias
  
• Mistletoe in doorways
  
• A tree loaded with ornaments and a glowing topper

3.4 DIY Decor Corner

Add a crafty twist and get guests involved.

DIY Ideas:

• Paper snowflakes for windows or garlands
  
• Painted pinecones with glitter and glue
  
• Create custom signs with chalkboards or mini canvases
  
• Set up a decoration-making station with ornament kits or holiday crafts

4. Friendsmas Games & Activities

Keep your party lively with these fun, interactive games and activities that work for all ages and friend groups.

4.1 Secret Santa with a Twist

Make your gift exchange more memorable with these variations:

Fun Rules to Try:

• Gifts must be handmade or thrifted
  
• Max budget: $5 or $10
  
• Each gift must include a holiday pun or riddle
  
• Play White Elephant-style with “steals” and swaps

4.2 Holiday Trivia Night

Split into teams or play individually and test your holiday knowledge.

Trivia Categories:

• Christmas movie quotes
  
• Holiday song lyrics
  
• Festive foods from around the world
  
• Holiday traditions and pop culture moments

4.3 Gingerbread House Contest

Fuel creativity (and competition!) with a build-off.

Supplies:

• Gingerbread kits or graham crackers
  
• Icing, candy canes, gumdrops, and sprinkles
  
• Disposable tablecloths and aprons for easy cleanup
  

Award Categories:

• Most Creative
  
• Most Likely to Collapse
  
• Best Team Effort

4.4 Ornament Swap Game

Guests bring a wrapped ornament. Then play:

Swap Options:

• Left/Right Story Game
  
• Musical Pass (like hot potato with music)
  
• Dice Roll Gift Game (e.g., roll a 1 to steal, 6 to swap, etc.)

4.5 Friendsmas Bingo

Create or print out custom bingo cards using common party happenings.

Bingo Tile Ideas:

• Someone spills a drink
  
• Someone wears reindeer antlers
  
• A holiday pun is said
  
• Someone sings the wrong lyrics
  
• Group selfie is taken

5. Friendsmas Playlist Ideas

The right music makes everything better. Match your playlist to your party’s mood for that extra festive sparkle.

5.1 Chill & Cozy Playlist

Perfect for smaller gatherings or background ambiance.

Top Tracks:

• “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” – Ella Fitzgerald
  
• “Winter Song” – Sara Bareilles & Ingrid Michaelson
  
• “Christmas Lights” – Coldplay
  
• “Snowman” – Sia

5.2 Dance Party Playlist

Ideal for energetic parties and ugly sweater shenanigans.

Top Tracks:

• “All I Want for Christmas Is You” – Mariah Carey
  
• “Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays” – *NSYNC
  
• “Santa Tell Me” – Ariana Grande
  
• “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” – Brenda Lee

5.3 Indie & Alternative Holiday Vibes

Set a unique tone with these modern seasonal favorites.

Top Tracks:

• “Christmas Wrapping” – The Waitresses
  
• “That Was the Worst Christmas Ever!” – Sufjan Stevens
  
• “Baby, It’s Cold Outside” – She & Him
  
• “Carol of the Bells” – Pentatonix
  

Bonus Tip: Use Spotify’s collaborative playlist feature so guests can add their own songs in advance!

6. Gift Ideas & Party Favors

Whether you’re organizing a gift exchange or planning small take-home treats, these ideas balance charm and affordability.

6.1 Friendsmas Gift Exchange Ideas

For Secret Santa or White Elephant games.

Budget-Friendly Gift Ideas:

• Personalized mugs with cocoa mix
  
• Cozy socks in festive patterns
  
• Succulents in mini holiday pots
  
• DIY bath bombs or lip balm sets
  
• Holiday-themed puzzles or games
  

Funny Options for White Elephant:

• “Reinbeers” (beer bottles dressed as reindeer)
  
• Meme calendars
  
• Inflatable Christmas décor
  
• DIY coupon book (e.g., “1 free coffee hangout”)

6.2 DIY Party Favors

Send guests home with a small piece of the magic.

Cute & Easy DIYs:

• Hot cocoa cones (clear bags with layered mix + toppings)
  
• Mini cookie jars with tags
  
• Scented wax melts in holiday shapes
  
• Personalized ornaments with names or quotes

6.3 Personalized Keepsakes

Add sentimental value with gifts guests can treasure.

Ideas:

• Friendship photo frames
  
• Instant photo magnet sets
  
• Matching bracelets or pins
  
• “Best Friend Ever” mini trophies
  
• Quote cards with messages from the host

Final Thoughts,

Your holiday season deserves a little sparkle, and nothing shines brighter than a well-planned celebration with the people you love most. From cozy gatherings to bold themed bashes, these friendsmas party ideas, friendmas party ideas, and friendsmas food ideas are perfect for creating lasting memories.

Whether you go full-on glam or keep it pajama-chic, the right vibe and thoughtful touches will make your friendsmas magical.

Don’t forget to share these friendsmas theme ideas with your crew and tag us in your festive photos—we can’t wait to see how you celebrate!