Hosting the Perfect Holiday Watch Party: Christmas & New Year's Eve Sports Edition

The holiday season is here. Christmas lights are twinkling, the smell of hot cocoa is in the air, and — best of all — there are plenty of sports to watch! From NBA Christmas Day games to NFL playoff races and New Year's Eve bowl games, the holidays are a sports fan's dream.

And what better way to celebrate than by hosting a watch party that combines the warmth of the holidays with the excitement of game day?

Whether you're planning a cozy Christmas Day gathering, a festive New Year's Eve party, or a week-long holiday sports marathon, this guide will help you create an unforgettable event. From cozy blankets and festive drinkware to delicious snacks and team decor, we've got everything you need to host the perfect holiday watch party.

Let's get started.

1: Set the Holiday Atmosphere

The right atmosphere makes any watch party special. For a holiday watch party, combine your team pride with festive holiday decorations.

What You Need:

• Holiday Decor: Christmas tree, twinkling lights, wreaths, and garlands.
• Team Decor: Flags, banners, and team-colored accents that complement your holiday decorations.
• Lighting: Warm, dimmable lighting creates a cozy holiday atmosphere.
• Music: A playlist of holiday classics to play before the game and during breaks.

Pro Tip: Combine holiday and team decor by using team-colored ornaments on your Christmas tree or hanging team scarves as garland.

2: Create a Cozy Viewing Area

Winter watch parties mean cozy comfort. Make sure your guests are warm and comfortable throughout the game.

What You Need:

• Plush Blankets: Keep everyone warm and cozy with soft, team-branded blankets. Perfect for snuggling up during cold winter games.
• Supportive Pillows & Cushions: Add comfort to every seat with velvet plush cushions and pillows.
• Extra Seating: Make sure everyone has a good view of the TV.

3: Plan Your Festive Menu

Holiday watch parties call for special snacks and drinks. Plan a menu that's easy to eat while watching the game.

Holiday Watch Party Menu Ideas:

• Hot Cocoa Bar: Set up a station with hot cocoa, marshmallows, peppermint sticks, and whipped cream. Serve in team-branded mugs.
• Build-Your-Own Nacho Bar: A classic game day snack that's always a hit.
• Holiday Cookie Platter: Offer a variety of festive cookies for a sweet treat during halftime.
• Warm Appetizers: Sliders, meatballs, and dips that are easy to eat with one hand.
• Hot Chocolate Bar: A cozy treat for cold winter nights.
• Holiday Cocktails: Festive drinks like peppermint martinis or eggnog (for the adults).

4: Choose the Right Drinkware

Holiday drinks taste better in team-branded mugs and tumblers. Choose the right drinkware for your beverages.

What You Need:

• Ceramic Mugs: Perfect for hot cocoa, coffee, or tea. Available in team colors with official logos.
• Stainless Steel Tumblers: Keep drinks cold or hot for the entire game.
• Festive Drinkware: Combine holiday cheer with team pride.

5: Add Festive Fan Accessories

Holiday fan accessories combine team pride with festive cheer. These items add personality to your watch party.

What You Need:

• Team-Themed Stockings: Hang team-colored stockings for a festive touch.
• Holiday Fan Chains: Light-up chains that add a festive glow to your fan cave.
• Team Ornaments: Decorate your Christmas tree with team-branded ornaments.

Games to Watch During the Holidays

Here are the key games and events to plan your watch parties around:

Christmas Day Games

• NBA Christmas Day: The NBA's annual Christmas Day slate features marquee matchups and rivalries.
• NFL Games: The NFL often schedules key games on Christmas Day or Christmas Eve.

New Year's Eve & New Year's Day

• College Bowl Games: New Year's Eve and New Year's Day feature some of the biggest college football bowl games.
• NFL Week 18: The final week of the NFL regular season often includes playoff-deciding games.

NHL Winter Classic

• Outdoor Hockey: The NHL Winter Classic is typically held around New Year's Day and features an outdoor game in a iconic stadium.

Hosting Tips for the Holidays

• Send invitations early: The holidays are busy, so send invites well in advance.
• Plan for dietary restrictions: Ask guests about allergies or dietary preferences.
• Have plenty of blankets: Winter weather can be unpredictable. Have extra blankets available.
• Create a festive playlist: Play holiday music before the game and during breaks.
• Encourage team gear: Ask guests to wear their favorite team gear for extra fun.
• Capture the memories: Take photos of the decorations, the food, and the guests.