Ten years ago, we moved into our “forever home” in The Resort, and over the years, the neighbors in our cul-de-sac have become our best friends. Eight Christmases ago, we started a yearly tradition of a progressive Holiday party across four primary homes. During a busy holiday calendar for everyone, we agree on one night close to Christmas for the joint party. 

One home is the “kickoff” house, where everyone meets for the first round of holiday festivities…Christmas music, holiday drinks, Santa snacks. Then, after an hour or so, it’s off to the next house for more jolliness. Progressing from home to home lets us see and enjoy each family’s incredible Christmas decorations. It also allows each host family to throw their own short party featuring their favorite holiday snacks and drinks. At the final home, all the partygoers participate in a fun and hilarious gift exchange game. Several “White Elephant” gifts have made annual reappearances. The “after party” lasts until whenever, then at the end of the night, it’s so nice to have a short “Stroll” home.

 

We share our neighborhood Christmas Party tradition in the hope that others in The Resort will be inspired to gather with their neighbors during the Holidays. If so, here are a few recommendations we have learned over the years.

Coordinate a date early. Finding a December date that works for everyone can be challenging, especially with multiple families participating. We start considering dates in early November.

 

Keep the number of “host houses” small; we have found partying across four homes with a little over an hour (plus stroll time) at each works perfectly for us. We have tried as many as seven host homes in past years, and it’s just too chaotic and rushed to try and get to spend adequate time in each home. Prioritize quality fellowship time over the number of host homes.

 

Designate a “Marshaller” who will watch the time and announce to everyone when it’s time to “Stroll” to the next home.

 

The final home will host a longer-lasting celebration, spanning the present exchange and the after-party that always follows.

 

If the progressive Holiday Party is popular and likely to be repeated annually, switch up the order of the host homes in successive years.

 

Fun travel can be as close as your own street in The Resort. We’ll revisit the idea of a neighbor’s Progressive Holiday Party in one of the fall issues of Stroll the Resort as December draws near. Wishing you a Happy New Year from @captscott737 & @pilotjenn737!