Hosting House Guests for the Holidays: Tips for a Cozy and Memorable Stay

The holiday season is a time for family, friends, and cozy gatherings—and nothing says "holiday spirit" quite like hosting guests in your home. Whether you're welcoming out-of-town relatives or close friends, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere can make all the difference.  

Here are a few ideas from the Hello Home team from playlist inspiration to some of our favorite board games.

Set the Mood with a Holiday Playlist

Music is one of the easiest ways to create a festive atmosphere. Whether you're gathering around the dinner table, lounging in the living room, or having a holiday movie marathon, a well-curated playlist can elevate the mood. You can also create a collaborative playlist with your guests so everyone can contribute it keeps the music fresh throughout the visit.

Here are a few playlist ideas for different occasions:

• Classic Christmas Songs: Think Bing Crosby, Nat King Cole, and Frank Sinatra for a timeless, nostalgic feel.

• Modern Holiday Hits: Pop artists like Taylor Swift, Ariana Grande, and Michael Bublé have become staples for a more contemporary vibe. 

• Holiday Jazz: Perfect for evening cocktails or a festive dinner.

Games & Activities for All Ages

Holiday gatherings are an excellent time to play games and share a few laughs with your guests.  

• Board Games & Card Games: Classic board games like Monopoly, Scrabble, or Pictionary are fun and engaging for all ages. Card games like Uno, Rummy, or Go Fish are also easy to play in larger groups. The Batty family enjoy Codenames and Apples to Apples. 

• Holiday-Themed Charades: You can’t go wrong with a lively game of charades—especially if you include holiday-themed prompts like "decorating a Christmas tree" or "wrapping a gift."

• Holiday Scavenger Hunt: For younger guests or family-friendly fun, create a holiday scavenger hunt around your home or outside if it’s not too chilly.    

Warm Drinks to Keep Everyone Cozy

There's nothing quite like a hot drink to warm your guests' hearts and hands. Stock up on a variety of options so everyone has something to sip on, from traditional coffee and tea to creative holiday-inspired drinks.

• Coffee & Tea Station: Set up a self-serve station with a French press or drip coffee maker, a variety of teas, and all the fixings—sugar, honey, milk, and flavored syrups like peppermint, caramel or vanilla. 

• Hot Chocolate Bar: Especially for families with kids, a hot chocolate station is a huge hit. Provide whipped cream, marshmallows and flavored syrups (like caramel or hazelnut) for a fun, customizable treat. Candy canes make a great stirrer.

• Spiked Beverages for Adults: Consider offering a signature cocktail like spiked eggnog, mulled wine, or warm spiked apple cider. Have a couple of mocktail options too! Sparkling water with some pomegranates and orange slices can make it fun!

• Infused Water: For guests who want something refreshing but not too sweet, set up a water station with sliced fruits and herbs—think lemon, lime, cucumber, or even rosemary for a festive twist.

Towels & Guest Comfort

When hosting overnight guests, ensuring their comfort is key.  

• Fresh Towels: Always have extra towels available for guests, and don’t forget about washcloths and hand towels. Fresh, soft towels go a long way toward making guests feel at ease. Consider stocking up on seasonal-scented soaps or bath salts for an added touch of luxury.

• Blankets and Pillows: If you’re hosting guests overnight, make sure to provide plenty of blankets and pillows, particularly if the weather is chilly. Create a cozy guest bed setup with festive holiday bedding, or throw an extra blanket or two on the couch in case someone wants to nap or watch movies by the fire.

Plan for Quiet Time

While it's easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of hosting, don’t forget that your guests might need some quiet moments to unwind. Provide a space where guests can relax and have a little time to themselves. A cozy reading nook with books, magazines, or puzzles can be a perfect retreat. Who doesn’t love a holiday candle and a good book. If you have an outdoor space and the weather permits, create an inviting area to enjoy the crisp winter air with outdoor blankets, candles, and warm drinks.

Hosting during the holidays doesn’t need to be overwhelming. By focusing on simple pleasures—like good food, cozy drinks, games, and a warm atmosphere—you can ensure that everyone leaves with cherished memories and a smile on their face. It’s the thought and care you put into the details that will make your guests feel truly at home.

So, make the most of this holiday season, enjoy the time with loved ones, and don’t forget to sprinkle in a little extra holiday magic along the way!