Christmas Celebration Planning

The holiday season is a time of joy, togetherness, and creating cherished memories with family and friends. Planning a stress-free Christmas celebration is not only possible but can be incredibly rewarding. With careful preparation and organization, you can host a festive holiday gathering that allows you to enjoy the festivities alongside your loved ones. In this guide, we’ll take you through the steps to plan and organize your Christmas party, from setting a budget to inviting your family.

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Set a Budget for You Christmas Celebration

Before you start planning your Christmas celebration, it’s crucial to set a budget. Determine how much you’re willing to spend on decorations, gifts, food, and other expenses. Having a clear budget in mind will help you make cost-conscious decisions throughout the planning process and prevent overspending.

Choose a Date and Time

Select a date and time for your Christmas celebration that works for you and your family. Keep in mind that the holiday season can be busy, so it’s a good idea to send out Save-the-Date invitations well in advance to ensure that your loved ones can join the celebration.

Plan the Menu

One of the most enjoyable aspects of the holiday season is the delicious food. Plan your menu well in advance to avoid last-minute stress. Consider your guests’ dietary preferences and any allergies. Classic holiday dishes like roast turkey, mashed potatoes, and a variety of desserts are always popular choices. Don’t forget to include options for vegetarians and those with dietary restrictions. See the sample menu for a classic Christmas celebration dinner.

Recipes, Grocery List and Bonus Leftover Recipes for your Christmas Celebration

See below, at the end, for a full Christmas Celebration Menu with all the recipes and a grocery shopping list, along with some leftover recipes. 

Sample Menu

Appetizers:

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

Christmas Mixed Greens Salad with Dried Cranberries and Pecans

Side Dishes:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Classic Christmas Turkey Stuffing

Classic Green Bean Almondine

Main Dish:

Herb-Crusted Roast Turkey

Desserts:

Homemade Apple Pie

Peppermint Chocolate Mousse

Cranberry Orange Trifle

Beverage:

Mulled Wine

Create a Decor Plan

Decorations set the festive atmosphere for your Christmas celebration. Plan your decor theme and color scheme. Consider including elements like a beautifully decorated Christmas tree, wreaths, garlands, and festive table settings. Get creative with DIY decorations to add a personal touch to your home.

Send Invitations

Inviting your family and friends to your Christmas celebration can be as traditional as sending physical invitations or as modern as creating a Facebook event. Make sure to include the date, time, location, and RSVP instructions. Encourage your guests to bring their favorite holiday dish to share, creating a potluck-style meal that eases your cooking load.

Organize Activities

To keep the festive spirit alive throughout the Christmas celebration, plan a variety of activities for your guests. This can include holiday-themed games, a gift exchange, or even a visit from Santa for the kids. Having a schedule of activities will help keep the event lively and engaging.

Delegate Tasks

You don’t have to do it all on your own. Enlist the help of family members or close friends to assist with preparations, cooking, and decorating. Delegating tasks not only lightens your load but also allows others to be actively involved in creating a memorable Christmas celebration.

Prepare a Timeline

Create a timeline that outlines when each task needs to be completed. This includes when to start cooking, when to decorate, and when to set the table. Having a well-organized schedule will help you stay on track and avoid any last-minute panic.

Enjoy the Moment

When the day of your Christmas celebration arrives, remember to take a deep breath and enjoy the moment. Your careful planning and preparations will ensure that everything runs smoothly, allowing you to savor the quality time spent with your loved ones.

Capture Memories

Don’t forget to document the special moments of your Christmas celebration. Whether you take photos, create a scrapbook, or write down memorable quotes, preserving these memories will allow you to relive the joy and warmth of the holiday season for years to come.

Planning a stress-free Christmas celebration is all about preparation, organization, and spending quality time with family and friends. By following these steps and taking a calm and systematic approach to your holiday preparations, you can create a memorable and joyous event that everyone will cherish. Embrace the holiday spirit, and savor every moment of your festive Christmas celebration. Happy holidays!

Classic Christmas Menu, Recipes and Grocery List with Bonus Leftover Recipes

For a printable copy of this menu, recipes, grocery list and leftover recipes, click HERE.

Below are recipes with exact measurements of ingredients and detailed cooking instructions for a classic Christmas menu as well as a grocery list for your grocery shopping needs:

 

Christmas Celebration Recipes 

Appetizers 

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

Ingredients:

– 1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– 1 medium onion, chopped

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 4 cups vegetable broth

– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 1/2 cup heavy cream

– Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Toss the butternut squash cubes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast for 30-35 minutes or until tender.

3. In a large pot, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until they’re soft and translucent.

4. Add the roasted butternut squash, vegetable broth, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20 minutes.

5. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer it to a blender in batches and blend until smooth, then return it to the pot.

6. Stir in the heavy cream and heat the soup without boiling.

7. Adjust the seasoning if needed and serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Christmas Mixed Greens Salad with Dried Cranberries and Pecans

Ingredients for the Salad:

– 8 cups mixed salad greens (e.g., baby spinach, arugula, romaine, and red leaf lettuce)

– 1 cup dried cranberries

– 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted

– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced

Ingredients for the Balsamic Vinaigrette:

– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar

– 1 clove garlic, minced

– 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil

– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

– 1 teaspoon honey

– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions for the Salad:

1. Toast the pecans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the chopped pecans on a baking sheet and toast them for about 5-7 minutes or until they become fragrant. Be careful not to burn them.

2. In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, dried cranberries, toasted pecans, and thinly sliced red onion. Toss gently to mix.

Instructions for the Balsamic Vinaigrette:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, and honey.

2. Slowly drizzle in the extra-virgin olive oil while continuing to whisk the dressing.

3. Season the vinaigrette with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting to your preference.

To Assemble:

1. Just before serving, drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the mixed greens salad.

2. Toss the salad gently to ensure all the ingredients are coated with the vinaigrette.

3. Serve immediately and enjoy your festive Christmas salad!

This salad adds a burst of color and flavors to your Christmas dinner, making it a perfect accompaniment to your holiday meal.

Side Dishes

Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Ingredients:

– 4 pounds potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks

– 4 cloves garlic, minced

– 1/2 cup unsalted butter

– 1 cup milk

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Chopped fresh chives for garnish

Instructions:

1. Boil the potatoes in a large pot of salted water until they are tender, about 15-20 minutes.

2. In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for a minute or two until fragrant.

3. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash them with a potato masher.

4. Pour the garlic butter and milk over the mashed potatoes and stir until smooth and creamy.

5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Garnish with chopped fresh chives before serving.

Classic Christmas Turkey Stuffing

Ingredients:

– 12 cups (1 loaf) stale white bread, cut into cubes

– 1/2 cup unsalted butter

– 1 large onion, finely chopped

– 3-4 celery stalks, finely chopped

– 2-3 cloves garlic, minced

– 2 tablespoons fresh sage, finely chopped

– 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped

– 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, finely chopped

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 2-3 cups chicken or turkey broth (homemade or store-bought)

– Optional: 1 cup chopped nuts (e.g., pecans or chestnuts), 1 cup dried cranberries, or 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled sausage

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Spread the bread cubes on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are dry and slightly crisp. Set aside.

3. In a large skillet or pan, melt the butter over medium heat.

4. Add the chopped onion and celery and sauté until they become soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.

5. Add the minced garlic, fresh sage, and fresh thyme, and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

6. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the fresh parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

7. In a large mixing bowl, combine the toasted bread cubes with the sautéed vegetable and herb mixture. If desired, add chopped nuts, dried cranberries, or cooked and crumbled sausage at this stage.

8. Gradually pour the chicken or turkey broth over the bread mixture, stirring to ensure the stuffing is evenly moistened. You can adjust the amount of broth to achieve your desired stuffing consistency – some people prefer it moist, while others prefer it drier.

9. Transfer the stuffing mixture to a greased baking dish.

10. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.

11. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and slightly crispy.

12. Serve the stuffing alongside your roasted Christmas turkey.

Classic Green Bean Almondine

Ingredients:

– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed

– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

– 1/4 cup sliced almonds

– 1 lemon, zested

– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Steam the green beans until tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes. Drain and set aside.

2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced almonds and sauté until they turn golden brown.

3. Add the steamed green beans to the skillet and toss to coat with the butter and almonds.

4. Sprinkle with lemon zest and season with salt and pepper.

5. Serve immediately.

Main Course 

Herb-Crusted Roast Turkey

Ingredients:

– 1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds)

– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

– 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped

– 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, finely chopped

– 2 tablespoons fresh sage, finely chopped

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 1 lemon, cut into quarters

– 1 onion, cut into quarters

– 4 cloves garlic, crushed

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).

2. Rinse the turkey inside and out and pat it dry with paper towels.

3. In a bowl, mix the softened butter, rosemary, thyme, sage, salt, and pepper.

4. Carefully separate the turkey skin from the meat and rub the herb butter mixture underneath the skin.

5. Stuff the turkey cavity with the lemon, onion, and crushed garlic.

6. Tie the turkey legs together with kitchen twine.

7. Place the turkey on a roasting rack in a roasting pan.

8. Roast the turkey in the preheated oven for about 3 to 4 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.

9. Let the turkey rest for about 30 minutes before carving.

Desserts

Homemade Apple Pie

Ingredients (For the pie crust):

– 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

– 1 teaspoon salt

– 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

– 6-8 tablespoons ice water

Ingredients (For the filling):

– 6-7 cups peeled and sliced apples (such as Granny Smith)

– 3/4 cup granulated sugar

– 1 tablespoon lemon juice

– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces

– 1 egg (for egg wash)

– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (for sprinkling)

Instructions (For the pie crust):

1. In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt.

2. Cut in the cold butter with a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

3. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, while mixing, until the dough comes together.

4. Divide the dough into two discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 1 hour.

Instructions (For the filling):

1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and flour. Toss to coat the apples evenly.

Instructions (Assembling and Baking):

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).

2. Roll out one disc of the chilled pie dough on a floured surface and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish.

3. Fill the pie crust with the apple mixture and dot with small pieces of butter.

4. Roll out the second disc of pie dough and place it over the apples. Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges to seal the pie.

5. Beat the egg and brush it over the top crust, then sprinkle with sugar.

6. Cut a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.

7. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes or until the crust is golden brown, and the filling is bubbling.

8. Allow the pie to cool before serving.

Peppermint Chocolate Mousse

Ingredients:

For the Chocolate Mousse:

– 8 ounces (about 1 1/3 cups) semisweet chocolate chips

– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

– 4 large eggs, separated

– 1/4 cup granulated sugar

– 1/4 cup heavy cream

– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

For the Peppermint Whipped Cream:

– 1 cup heavy cream

– 1/4 cup powdered sugar

– 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract

– Crushed candy canes for garnish

Instructions for the Chocolate Mousse:

1. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and butter in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth. Allow it to cool slightly.

2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, and vanilla extract. Slowly mix the melted chocolate into the yolk mixture.

3. In a separate clean and dry bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form.

4. In yet another bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.

5. Gently fold the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture, followed by the beaten egg whites, being careful not to deflate them.

6. Divide the mousse into serving glasses and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until set.

Instructions for the Peppermint Whipped Cream:

1. In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream until it starts to thicken.

2. Gradually add the powdered sugar and peppermint extract while continuing to whip until stiff peaks form.

3. Top each chocolate mousse serving with a dollop of peppermint whipped cream and garnish with crushed candy canes.

Cranberry Orange Trifle

Ingredients:

For the Cranberry Orange Compote:

– 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries

– 1 cup granulated sugar

– 1/2 cup orange juice

– Zest of 1 orange

For the Trifle:

– 1 store-bought pound cake, cut into cubes

– 2 cups vanilla pudding (homemade or store-bought)

– 1 cup heavy cream, whipped

– Fresh orange slices for garnish

– Orange zest for garnish

Instructions for the Cranberry Orange Compote:

1. In a saucepan, combine the cranberries, granulated sugar, orange juice, and orange zest.

2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens (about 10-15 minutes). Allow it to cool.

Instructions for the Trifle:

1. In a trifle dish or individual serving glasses, layer the bottom with pound cake cubes.

2. Spoon a layer of cranberry orange compote over the pound cake.

3. Top with a layer of vanilla pudding.

4. Repeat the layers until you’ve used up all your ingredients, finishing with a layer of whipped cream.

5. Garnish with fresh orange slices and orange zest.

6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Beverage

Mulled Wine

Ingredients:

– 1 bottle of red wine

– 1/4 cup honey

– 1 orange, sliced

– 1 lemon, sliced

– 10 whole cloves

– 3 cinnamon sticks

– 2 star anise

– 1/4 cup brandy (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, combine the red wine and honey.

2. Add the sliced orange, lemon, cloves, cinnamon sticks, and star anise.

3. Heat the mixture over low heat, but do not bring it to a boil.

4. Let it simmer for 15-20 minutes to infuse the flavors.

5. Add brandy if desired, then ladle the mulled wine into mugs and serve hot.

Christmas Celebration Grocery List 

Produce:

1 medium butternut squash

3 white onions

1 red onion

3-4 celery stalks

14 cloves garlic

4 tablespoons fresh sage

4 tablespoons fresh thyme

2 tablespoons fresh rosemary

3/4 cup fresh parsley

¼ cup chives for 

8 cups mixed salad greens

4 pounds potatoes

1 pound fresh green beans

4 lemons

3 oranges

6-7 apples (such as Granny Smith)

2 cups fresh cranberries

Dairy and Refrigerated Items:

2 3/2 cup heavy cream

3 cups + 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

1 cup milk

5 eggs

1/2 cup orange juice

Pantry Staples:

¾ cup olive oil

1 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/4 cup balsamic vinegar

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

1/4 cup + 1 teaspoon honey

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract

10 whole cloves

3 cinnamon sticks

2 star anise

Salt Pepper

Baking

2 1/2 cups + 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2 cups + 1 tablespoon granulated sugar

8 ounces (about 1 1/3 cups) semisweet chocolate chips

1/4 cup powdered sugar

Canned and Packaged Items:

2 cups dried cranberries

2 cups chopped pecans

1/4 cup sliced almonds

4 cups vegetable broth

2-3 cups chicken or turkey broth

2 cups vanilla pudding (homemade or store-bought)

Meat and Proteins:

1/2 cup cooked and crumbled sausage

1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds)

Bakery and Bread:

12 cups (1 loaf) stale white bread

1 store-bought pound cake, cut into cubes

Miscellaneous:

6-8 tablespoons ice water

Crushed candy canes for garnish

1 bottle of red wine

1/4 cup brandy (optional)

BONUS – Christmas Celebration Leftovers Recipes

Now, what to do with all those delicious leftovers? Here are some creative and tasty leftover recipes to make the most of your Christmas feast.

Christmas Leftover Turkey and Cranberry Sandwich

Ingredients:

– Slices of leftover roast turkey

– Leftover cranberry sauce

– Slices of leftover apple pie (for dessert)

– Bread or rolls

– Leftover mixed salad greens

Instructions:

1. Take slices of leftover roast turkey and reheat them if desired.

2. Toast slices of bread or rolls.

3. Spread a layer of leftover cranberry sauce on one side of the bread.

4. Place the reheated turkey slices on the cranberry sauce.

5. Add a handful of leftover mixed salad greens for a fresh crunch.

6. If you have any leftover apple pie, enjoy a slice for dessert or as a side.

Christmas Leftover Turkey and Green Bean Stir-Fry

Ingredients:

– Slices of leftover roast turkey, diced

– Leftover green beans almondine

– Leftover garlic mashed potatoes

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– Soy sauce

– Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. In a pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.

2. Add the diced leftover turkey and stir-fry until heated through.

3. Add the leftover green beans almondine and stir-fry for a few minutes until they are hot.

4. Season with a splash of soy sauce and a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.

5. Serve the turkey and green bean stir-fry over a bed of reheated leftover garlic mashed potatoes.

Christmas Leftover Cranberry and Pecan Salad with Turkey

Ingredients:

– Slices of leftover roast turkey, shredded

– Leftover mixed salad greens with cranberries and pecans

– Leftover balsamic vinaigrette

– Leftover butternut squash soup (as a side)

Instructions:

1. In a large salad bowl, combine the leftover mixed salad greens with cranberries and pecans.

2. Add the shredded leftover roast turkey on top.

3. Drizzle the leftover balsamic vinaigrette over the salad and toss to coat all ingredients.

4. Reheat the leftover butternut squash soup and serve it as a comforting side to this leftover salad.

Christmas Leftover Turkey and Stuffing Casserole

Ingredients:

– Slices of leftover roast turkey, diced

– Leftover stuffing

– Leftover cranberry sauce

– Leftover gravy

– Leftover green bean almondine

– Leftover garlic mashed potatoes

– Leftover butternut squash soup (as a side)

– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

– Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. In a baking dish, spread a layer of leftover stuffing as the base.

3. Add the diced leftover turkey on top of the stuffing.

4. Spoon leftover cranberry sauce over the turkey.

5. Layer the green bean almondine on one side of the casserole and the garlic mashed potatoes on the other side.

6. Pour leftover gravy evenly over the casserole.

7. If desired, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top for a cheesy finish.

8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the casserole is heated through, and the cheese (if used) is melted and bubbly.

9. Garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with a side of reheated butternut squash soup.

Christmas Leftover Peppermint Chocolate Mousse Parfait

Ingredients:

– Leftover Peppermint Chocolate Mousse

– Leftover Cranberry Orange Trifle

– Crushed candy canes (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Take your leftover Peppermint Chocolate Mousse from the Christmas dinner.

2. In individual serving glasses, create layers by alternating between the leftover mousse and leftover Cranberry Orange Trifle.

3. Repeat the layers until the glasses are filled.

4. Garnish the parfaits with crushed candy canes for a festive touch.

5. Refrigerate for a couple of hours to allow the flavors to meld, then serve as a delightful dessert.

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Christmas Celebration Planning