How to Host an Ornament Swap

Swapping ornaments with friends is a great way to snag some new ornaments for you, while gifting some festive ornaments to others. If you have ever been curious about How to Host an Ornament Swap but weren’t sure where to begin, take a look below at some helpful tips on how to get started. Hosting an ornament swap is a cinch, plus it is a great way to get into the spirit of the season. Take a look below so you can get started planning your own!

How to Host an Ornament Swap

1. Create your guest list.
Create a guest list that includes 8-10 people. Keeping it small makes the gathering more intimate and easy to host.

2. Send out invites and give the swap directions.
Use social media to send out free invites, or if you prefer to mail them do so. Let each guest know they should bring an ornament for the swap. Set a dollar amount on the ornament, for example, $5. Ask them to wrap the ornament and bring an appetizer or dessert to share.

3. Prepare your party space.
Put up a tree, twinkle lights, and other holiday themed décor. You can find pieces at the local dollar or thrift store that are so fun and within budget. Make sure you set up a table or tree for the ornaments to be displayed on as well.

4. Start the party!
Once your space is decorated it is time to welcome your guests. Invite them to mingle and share the appetizers or desserts they brought. As the hostess, you can provide either of these dishes and beverages such as water, punch, soda, wine, etc. Turn on some holiday music, light some candles, and let the party begin!

5. Begin swapping.
To swap ornaments, you can sit in a circle and play holiday music. Everyone can take their ornament and start passing them to their left. When the music stops, each person can open the ornament in their hand. If they got their own ornament back, have them swap with someone else.

If you wish, you can also have each person draw a number. That will then be the picking order. When the person’s number is up, they can choose their wrapped ornament. You can then have everyone open at once or one at a time as they choose their ornament.

Once ornaments are opened, each person can tell which one they brought and if there is any special story behind it. When you are done, thank your guests for coming and provide some tissue for them to take their ornament home in. Don’t forget to send all appetizer and dessert dishes home with their owners as well.

Hosting an ornament swap is very little work, and a great way to get a group of friends together for the holidays. Give one a try and see how much holiday fun you can all have!