How to Host a Sleepover During the Holidays with Fun Holiday Sleepover Ideas

The holiday season is already a magical time of year, but adding a sleepover to the mix takes it to the next level. Whether you’re hosting a group of cousins, neighborhood friends, or your child’s classmates, a holiday sleepover can create cherished memories for years to come. With a few festive touches and thoughtful planning, you can make your holiday sleepover a standout event filled with joy, laughter, and a sprinkle of holiday magic.

Deck the (Sleepover) Halls

Transform your sleepover space into a festive wonderland by incorporating holiday décor. String fairy lights around the room, hang paper snowflakes, and scatter holiday-themed pillows or throws for added coziness. If you’re setting up tents or teepees, give them a festive makeover with garlands, mini wreaths, or even holiday-themed bedding. A small tabletop tree in the sleepover area can serve as a perfect holiday centerpiece.

Plan Holiday-Themed Activities

Themed activities are a must for a holiday sleepover! Here are a few ideas to get the holiday cheer rolling:

• DIY Ornament Crafting: Set up a crafting station where kids can decorate ornaments to take home.

• Holiday Movie Marathon: Choose age-appropriate holiday classics, and set up a cozy viewing area complete with blankets and snacks.

• Gingerbread Decorating Contest: Provide pre-assembled gingerbread houses or cookies and let the kids get creative with icing and candy.

• Snowball Fight Indoors: Use white balloons or fluffy pom-poms for a playful “snowball” fight that’s mess-free.

• Holiday Coloring Banner: Set out a large pre-printed holiday coloring banner and let the kids work together to bring it to life. It’s relaxing, creative, and perfect for group fun.

  
  

Serve Festive Snacks and Treats

Holiday treats can make the sleepover extra special. Think beyond traditional sleepover snacks and incorporate festive flavors:

• Hot Cocoa Bar: Include toppings like whipped cream, marshmallows, candy canes, and sprinkles. Pro tip: freeze the whipped cream with the toppings to make the magic last longer.

• Build-Your-Own Snowman Snacks: Set out marshmallows, pretzel sticks, mini chocolate chips, orange candies, and cookie icing so kids can assemble their own edible snowmen. It’s simple, mess-free, and doubles as a cute photo moment.

• Holiday Popcorn Mix: Combine popcorn with red and green candies, pretzels, and drizzle with white chocolate.

• Snowman Pancakes for Breakfast: Start the morning with a fun breakfast shaped like snowmen or reindeer.

  
  

Incorporate a Giving Spirit

The holidays are a time of giving, so why not weave that theme into your sleepover? Encourage guests to bring a small item to donate, such as toys, books, or canned goods. You can create a “giving station” where everyone can place their donations and talk about the importance of helping others.

Alternatively, let the kids make cards for a local nursing home or neighbors. This activity combines creativity with a lesson about kindness.

Keep Parents in the Loop

During the busy holiday season, parents might need extra reassurance about the sleepover’s schedule and activities. Share a detailed plan ahead of time, including meal times, bedtimes, and special activities. If you’re hosting extended family, coordinate with parents to align on expectations for screen time, food preferences, or other logistics.

Add a Personal Touch for Each Guest

Make each guest feel special with a little holiday surprise. A personalized stocking or goodie bag waiting by their bed adds a magical touch. Fill it with small items like mini candy canes, stickers, or even a pair of fuzzy socks. The best part? These can double as party favors!

Capture the Holiday Spirit

Don’t forget to take plenty of photos to capture the holiday magic. Create a simple photo booth with a festive backdrop and props like Santa hats, reindeer antlers, or funny holiday glasses. These moments will be fun to look back on for both the kids and their families.

Holiday Sleepovers Ideas Made Easy

Dream Away Soirée's Let it Snow Theme

Hosting a holiday sleepover doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a little preparation and some festive creativity, you can create a memorable event that guests will be talking about for years. If you’re looking to take the stress out of setup, Dream Away Soirée offers customizable sleepover kits that can easily be tailored for the holidays. From cozy tents to festive decorations, we’ve got you covered!

What’s Your Favorite Holiday Sleepover Memory?

Have you hosted a holiday-themed sleepover before? Share your favorite activities, snacks, or tips in the comments. We’d love to hear how you add magic to the holiday season!

For more helpful tips, including hosting a sleepover for first timers, please click here!