Prep to host the holidays with Kohl’s festive home inspiration.
When it comes to hosting for the holidays this year, consider this our RSVP … and an offer to help. Throwing a classic Christmas party on a budget? Check. Pulling off a polished corporate holiday party? Easy. Wrangling the family circus? Brave. Hosting a virtual event in your slippers? Iconic. Whatever your holiday mood, we have the festive decor, cozy finds and kitchen MVPs to make it happen. Because let’s be honest: this year, you’re not just hosting for Christmas—you’re crafting memories so bright, even your Christmas tree is taking notes.
What makes a classic Christmas party magical?
Classic Christmas parties never go out of style. Head to Kohl’s for twinkling lights, mugs for cocoa and a Christmas tree so stunning it could star in a Hallmark movie.
How to set the scene
Tree time: Go for a lush artificial tree that looks real. If you’ve been searching “recommendations for artificial Christmas trees with realistic look,” look no further. We have trees that pack all the merry with none of the mess and all the best deals. (Bonus: They work for a multitude of Christmas party themes year after year.)
Deck it out: Add nostalgic ornaments to the tree, wreaths to the doors and cozy touches like Sonoma Goods For Life® candles for a sensory experience that brings back all the best holiday memories.
Festive snacks and sips: Break out the Build-A-Board for charcuterie, candy or Christmas cookies. Then serve spiked eggnog in double old-fashioned or highball glasses and toast to the season.
Pro Tip: Create a DIY hot cocoa bar with merry mugs and Christmas kitchen towels. Kids and adults alike will line up for the toppings.
Let’s just say I’ve been to my share of work parties. You’re gonna want these.
How do you host a corporate holiday party that feels polished?
Whether you’re throwing a company Christmas party at work or at home, it’s all about balancing festive cheer with professional polish. (Translation: holiday sparkle, but no HR headaches.) Here are some tips on doing it all for less.
How to pull it off
First impressions count: A wreath and a festive doormat instantly elevate the entry.
Keep it chic: Accent with ceramic decor and candles—just enough sparkle without overdoing it.
Cater like a pro: Whip up desserts with a KitchenAid® Artisan Stand Mixer and keep cocktails flowing (within reason) in highball glasses.
PRO TIP: Choose “Winter Wonderland” as a theme. It’s elegant, neutral and always appropriate.
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How do you make a family holiday party fun for everyone?
Family gatherings are joyful, chaotic and occasionally competitive. (Who does make the best stuffing, though?) Here are our top Christmas hosting tips to keep things holly, jolly and family friendly.
How to pull it off
Kid-proof the space: Stock up on shatterproof ornaments and durable placemats. (Bonus: You can reuse them every year to save money.)
Set the mood: Use Yankee Candle® holiday diffusers in pine or cinnamon for the rich fragrance of nostalgia, comfort and joy.
Serve family-style: Pile Mingle & Co.™ trays and platters high with goodies and arrange them on festive placemats or tablecloths for a warm, cozy spread.
Pro Tip: Keep kids busy with a cookie-decorating station. Take it to the next level with a Ninja CREAMi to serve up homemade holiday ice cream on the side.
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Can a virtual holiday party still feel special?
Distance doesn’t have to kill the holiday spirit. It just calls for creativity … and a little inspiration. A virtual Christmas party can be just as festive (and way more affordable) if you set the stage right. Check out these tips for hosting Christmas online.
How to pull it off
Send kits ahead: Think mugs, ornaments or Christmas candles—easy gifts that spark connection.
Sync the vibe: Have everyone light the same scented candle before logging in. Suddenly, you’re all in the same cozy room.
Add games: Virtual trivia with prizes brings a little extra incentive. (Think small novelty gifts or stocking stuffers.)
Pro Tip: Host a festive pajama work holiday party. Everyone logs on in holiday PJs, and you vote on the best look.
What are some unique holiday party themes?
Sometimes, the secret to a memorable gathering is a theme that’s unexpected, playful or over-the-top festive. Here are some Christmas day hosting ideas that pair perfectly with our home and kitchen essentials whether you’re in need of noteworthy holiday party themes for work, friends or family:
- Holiday Movie Marathon Night: Set up cozy throw blankets and pillows from The Big One®, pop fresh popcorn in festive bowls and stream back-to-back classics. Encourage guests to dress as their favorite holiday characters.
- Around the World Holidays: Feature dishes from different cultures (with help from the KitchenAid® Stand Mixer or Ninja CREAMi) and decorate each table with global flair—placemats, candles and accents that nod to different traditions.
- DIY Ornament Exchange: Provide clear ornaments and decorating supplies. Guests craft their own and swap at the end of the night. (Tip: Light Sonoma Goods For Life® candles to create a warm, creative atmosphere.)
- Holiday Brunch Bash: Swap cocktails for mimosas, serve cinnamon rolls and set the table with bright placemats and mugs. Perfect for early risers or next-day gatherings. (Pro tip: Head to Kohl’s to find unique holiday-themed dinnerware sets.)
- Cozy Cabin Retreat: Even if you’re not in the mountains, you can channel rustic charm with an elevated twist for overnight guests. Use Miryana™ bedding, faux-fur throws and candlelit ambiance. Pair it all with hearty comfort foods, mulled cider and a roaring fireplace.
Quick holiday hosting tips and FAQs.
Where can I purchase shatterproof Christmas ornaments?
We carry a wide selection of durable, stylish ornaments—perfect for homes with kids or pets. (Pro tip: Save on them when you shop Kohl’s home decor holiday collection sale.)
What’s the best way to decorate for Thanksgiving and Christmas?
Start small with placemats and kitchen towels, add candles or diffusers and finish with a festive tree or wreath. You can find this and more holiday decor inspiration for a festive home at Kohls.
How do I make my home smell like the holidays?
Begin with the best scents for holiday diffusers and candles from Sonoma Goods For Life® candles and Yankee Candle®. Go for pine, vanilla or cinnamon to bring instant holiday vibes.
Where can I find hosting Christmas ideas?
Head to our Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook to find a great starting point for decorating, entertaining, gift ideas, deals and even suggestions for holiday themed kitchen towels.
Where can I buy decorative Thanksgiving placements online?
We have just what you need from chic Thanksgiving decor to novelty table settings in the shape of turkeys.
What are the best places to find festive holiday doormats?
Our top two choices? Kohl’s stores and Kohls.com. From doormats with classic Christmas charm to modern graphics, we’ve got what you’re looking for and usually a promo code too.