By Las Vegas PRIDE Magazine Staff

The holiday season is a time for gathering, celebrating, and sharing joy with friends, family, and chosen family. For LGBTQIA+ hosts, creating a welcoming and inclusive environment is a priority, especially during a season that can sometimes bring mixed emotions. Here’s a guide to planning a holiday gathering that’s as comfortable, joyful, and stress-free as it is fabulous.

Start with Inclusive Invitations

When crafting your guest list and invitations, remember that not everyone celebrates the holidays in the same way. An open-minded approach to invitations can make a difference from the outset. Use inclusive language, such as “holiday gathering” or “end-of-year celebration,” rather than more specific religious or cultural references, unless you know your guests share the tradition.

In your invitations, consider adding a note welcoming friends and partners, encouraging guests to come as they are, and reminding them they can dress however makes them feel comfortable. This signals that your gathering is a safe and accepting space for everyone.

Make Comfort a Priority: Think About Your Space

Creating a physically comfortable environment is just as important as creating an emotionally safe one. Arrange your space to accommodate conversations, mingling, and cozy lounging. Consider providing different seating areas, from plush couches to quiet corners for those needing a moment to recharge.

Ensure any gender-neutral restroom spaces are clearly marked, and consider a room or corner where guests can retreat if they need a moment to themselves. As the host, you can also help alleviate potential awkwardness by subtly introducing guests to each other to help make connections across groups.

Curate a Playlist

Music sets the tone for your event, so craft a lively and welcoming playlist. Consider holiday classics with a twist, or tracks by artists that will resonate with your guests. If you’re unsure, ask guests for a few song requests ahead of time or choose a streaming playlist that highlights artists across genres.

When curating, try to balance fun, nostalgic hits with relaxing tunes for later in the evening when things wind down. A thoughtful mix will keep energy levels balanced throughout the night.

Plan Stress-Free Activities

While some parties are all about mingling, others are more fun with a few interactive activities. For a relaxed vibe, consider options like a DIY holiday ornament station, a cookie-decorating corner, or a space for making vision boards for the new year. These low-pressure activities can help guests engage with each other and have fun without needing to put on a big production.

If your guest list includes people who may not know each other well, icebreaker activities can also be a hit, as long as they’re easygoing and optional. Choose activities that celebrate diversity or inclusivity, like a holiday trivia quiz featuring queer icons or a collaborative holiday mural where everyone contributes their own flair.

Offer a Range of Refreshments for Every Palate

When it comes to food and drink, it’s always a good idea to offer a variety that respects dietary preferences and allergies. A mix of vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-sensitive options can ensure everyone feels considered. Small touches, like labeling dishes, go a long way in making guests feel comfortable and confident about what they’re eating.

As for drinks, make sure non-alcoholic options are just as inviting as their boozy counterparts. Consider serving a festive mocktail or punch alongside the traditional holiday drinks so that everyone can have something special in hand.

Find Ways to Share the Load

Hosting can be a big job, but you don’t have to do it alone. Enlist a friend or two to help with setup, bartending, or keeping the food stocked. This allows you to relax and enjoy the party alongside your guests instead of constantly worrying about logistics. Many friends are happy to lend a hand and appreciate the chance to be part of the hosting experience.

If guests ask what they can bring, don’t be afraid to accept! A holiday potluck can take the pressure off you and let guests contribute their favorite dishes or drinks, adding variety to the menu and helping them feel involved.

Embrace Traditions and Make New Ones

Consider adding a personal touch by incorporating queer holiday traditions into your gathering. Maybe it’s watching a classic LGBTQIA+ movie, hosting a “chosen family” toast, or sharing something everyone is grateful for this season. These little traditions can create a memorable atmosphere and help build new memories with your loved ones.

Whether it’s a small, symbolic moment or a heartfelt toast, creating unique traditions can be a great way to center your gathering around community values, connection, and shared joy.

Take Time to Recharge

Finally, remember that the holiday season can be emotionally taxing. If you’re the host, it’s easy to get caught up in making sure everyone else is having a good time, but don’t neglect your own needs. Take a few moments for yourself to relax and recharge during the event. Find time before the party starts or after the guests leave to unwind and appreciate the connections made.

Keep the Holiday Spirit Stress-Free

Hosting a holiday gathering can be a joy, especially when it’s tailored to be inclusive and welcoming. With these tips, your party will have all the warmth and charm of the season while reflecting the values of connection and inclusivity. And as you celebrate, remember that the best holiday moments come from authenticity, care, and shared experiences. So take a deep breath, embrace the season, and make your holiday gathering a space where everyone feels at home.

This article was originally published in the 2024 Winter Issue of Las Vegas PRIDE Magazine, and can be read in its original format here.