Something magical happens when you pull the whole family into the EXACT SAME ROOM all evening... push the coffee table off to the side... set up indoor tents, sleeping bags, and sofa cushions... munch on snacks and hot cocoa... and play games or watch Christmas movies all night.
Here are some quick tips for making your Holiday Slumber Party a successful, unforgettable event!
1. Create invitations.
You can (1) hand-deliver homemade invites to each family member, or (2) personally gather everyone around and read the invite aloud, as though it’s a royal decree (think of the messenger in Cinderella standing in the town square and inviting all the fair maidens to the ball, or simply (3) print out the invitation and stick it to the fridge. Either way, there's something about a proper invitation that builds anticipation and excitement.
2. Compel everyone to wear PJ's.
No t-shirt and sweats or "day clothes" this time. Pajama parties require PAJAMAS. The cuter, the better. If you have adorable footed PJs or some with reindeer ears, don’t hold back! Also, have Santa hats on hand for anyone who cares to wear one.
3. Create an ultra-comfy, inviting setting in your living room or gamroom.
TIP: If you have a child who’s a fort-building fanatic, recruit his help to get things set up for the night.
Before the party officially begins, there should be piles of blankets, pillows, and cushions strategically placed in the room. Dim the main lights, turn on the Christmas tree lights (or string some fairy lights across the ceiling), and have Alexa play Christmas tunes in the background.
3. Keep it simple.
Being cozy and comfy in your PJs is the most satisfying part of a pajama party. You won’t need a die-hard schedule or dozens of activities at the ready. The idea is to lounge area and enjoy each other's company. An impromptu dance party or sing-along, a friendly pillow fight, and a read-aloud story will be the cherry on top. (A holiday movie on the screen is a must.)
4. Serve a main meal BEFORE the party begins.
Do you want enchilada sauce making a mess of your beautiful floor setting? Didn't think so. Serve dinner early, and then for the pajama party stick to light snacks like popcorn, gingerbread cookies, fruit kebobs, and mini marshmallows.
5. Delight everyone with a home-cooked breakfast in the morning.
Crawl out early from your comfy spot while the rest of the gang is asleep, and fry up some bacon and eggs, throw a pan of biscuits into the oven, and get a pot of creamy grits going.
BONUS TIP: Cell phones away! Get off your phones, and encourage your family members to put away their devices too. Your holiday pajama party is all about having fun and connecting together. So be 100% “present.” Trust me, the kids will notice and appreciate it.
