Transform your outdoor space into a holiday wonderland with unique entertainment ideas for gatherings. These tips will keep your guests entertained and the festive spirit high all season long.
Festive Outdoors
Make your holiday gatherings unforgettable with unique outdoor entertainment ideas. From festive games to cozy activities under the stars, these creative options will keep your guests engaged and full of holiday cheer.
Swipe through for fun, interactive ways to bring the season’s magic to your backyard.
Outdoor Movie Night
Transform your backyard into a holiday cinema. Set up a projector and screen or use a blank wall for a cozy movie experience.
Play classic holiday films while guests snuggle under blankets on outdoor loungers or bean bags. Don’t forget a popcorn bar with seasonal toppings like caramel drizzle or crushed candy canes.
Holiday movies + fresh air = the ultimate festive vibe.
Holiday Karaoke
Unleash your guests’ inner rock stars with a holiday karaoke setup. Arrange a stage with a microphone and speakers, and use an outdoor TV or tablet to display lyrics.
Decorate the space with string lights and garlands for a concert-like feel. Add some hot cocoa or cider to keep performers warm while they belt out holiday classics like Jingle Bell Rock.
Festive Game Zone
Set up a winter-themed game zone for some outdoor fun. Consider a life-sized Jenga with snowflake decorations or a cornhole toss game board.
You can even organize a scavenger hunt with holiday-themed clues around the yard. Keep the games going with prizes like festive mugs or ornaments for the winners.
DIY S’mores Station
Bring everyone together around a firepit for a s’mores-making extravaganza. Provide graham crackers, marshmallows, and chocolate, plus fun extras like peppermint bark or caramel sauce for a holiday twist.
Set up logs or cushioned benches around the fire so guests can relax while roasting marshmallows. Bonus: This doubles as a cozy storytelling session by the fire.
Crafting Corner
Get creative with an outdoor holiday crafting corner. Set up tables with supplies for making ornaments, wreaths, or festive cards.
Use outdoor heaters and overhead canopies to keep the area warm and dry. Kids and adults alike will love creating keepsakes to take home; it’s entertainment and a thoughtful souvenir all in one.
Outdoor Photo Booth
Say cheese, the holiday way.
Capture memories with a holiday-themed outdoor photo booth. Set up a festive backdrop using garlands, fairy lights, and oversized ornaments.
Provide props like Santa hats, reindeer antlers, and holiday signs for guests to pose with. For extra fun, include a Polaroid camera so guests can take home instant keepsakes.
Holiday Trivia Night
Put your guests’ holiday knowledge to the test with a trivia showdown. Arrange cozy seating in teams and use a microphone or megaphone to announce questions.
Categories can include holiday movies, traditions, or music. Sweeten the game with festive prizes like candy canes or mini gift baskets for the winning team.
Seasonal Cookie Decorating
Combine creativity and treats with a cookie decorating station. Set up tables outdoors with plain sugar cookies, colorful icing, sprinkles, and edible glitter.
Add holiday music and let guests design their sweet masterpieces. Include take-home boxes so they can savor their creations later. It’s a delicious activity that everyone will enjoy.
Festive Dance Floor
Turn your backyard into a holiday dance party. Lay down an outdoor dance floor using mats or rugs and hang string lights above for a magical vibe.
Play a mix of holiday hits and crowd favorites to keep everyone moving. For added flair, hand out glow sticks or light-up accessories. Let the rhythm of the season take over.
Snowball Arena
Bring playful competition to your gathering with a snowball fight - or the next best thing. If there’s no snow, use soft, fake snowballs made of plush fabric.
Divide guests into teams and create barriers using hay bales or stacked boxes for an outdoor “snowball” arena. It’s energetic, fun, and a sure way to get everyone laughing.
Festive Skating Rink
Surprise, your guests with a backyard skating rink. If weather permits, create an ice rink or use synthetic ice panels for a winter wonderland.
Provide skates in various sizes and add holiday music to keep the energy high. Don’t forget a nearby hot chocolate station for when skaters need a cozy break.
Ornament Hunt
Put a holiday spin on an Easter egg hunt with an ornament scavenger game. Hide small ornaments or festive trinkets around the yard and provide clues for guests to follow.
Offer a grand prize for the most finds, like a holiday gift basket. It’s a mix of adventure, fun, and festive cheer.
Outdoor Escape Room
Bring a thrilling twist to your gathering with an outdoor escape room challenge. Create themed puzzles and clues, such as unlocking a “treasure” box or solving a holiday mystery.
Use your yard as the game area, with stations and props scattered around. This brain-teasing adventure will keep everyone on their toes and entertained.
Festive Piñata Smash
Add excitement with a holiday-themed piñata filled with candy, mini gifts, or ornaments. Hang it from a sturdy tree branch and let guests take turns blindfolded with a stick.
For a holiday twist, decorate the piñata as Santa, a snowman, or a reindeer. It’s a playful and energetic activity for all ages.
Interactive Storytelling
Bring a holiday tale to life with interactive storytelling. Arrange seating around a firepit or stage area, and let a volunteer narrator bring the story to life with props and sound effects.
Guests can join in by playing characters or acting out scenes. This imaginative activity is perfect for kids and adults alike.
Want more ways to enchant your guests? Give Turn Your Outdoor Space Into a Magical Escape a quick read to leave your guests impressed.
Holiday Bingo
Host a lively game of holiday-themed bingo under the stars. Create custom bingo cards with seasonal icons like Santa, snowflakes, or candy canes.
Use an outdoor projector to call the game and keep everyone engaged. Offer small prizes like ornaments, cookies, or gift cards for winners. It’s an easy way to get the whole group involved.
Love this idea? You’ll find even more such fun ideas in Fun and Easy Outdoor Activities for All Ages.