There are so many reasons to kick up our heels in 2021, but Holiday Celebrations focuses on the season that boasts the most cheer. Are kids included on your party lists? We’ve got you covered with crafts that will entertain them and food that adds a culinary kick so they feel a part of the festive fun. For the grown-ups, we’ll introduce recipes that give the bubbly extra sparkle, cocktails that are visual knock outs, and a speakeasy gathering so stylist that keeping quiet about it will be a challenge. And if the end-of-year holidays are when your creative juices start to flow, a wreath party and gift-wrapping inspiration will have your visitors and recipients impressed with your artful skills. It’s that time to think about how the year will close. Make sure that yours is done with personality.
All the help you need – start to finish!
from the Editor
BH&G Holiday Celebrations
Party with a Plan • Hosting your first festive gathering? Our guide to throwing a holiday party will put your mind at ease and ensure those in attendance enjoy the event.
COME ONE, COME ALL • If you find yourself far from home this Thanksgiving, spend the holiday with those nearby—friends, neighbors, coworkers—for a friendsgiving feast that will turn acquaintances into family.
Center of Attention • Leave a lasting impression on guests with centerpieces that stun.
the MAKERS FEAST • There’s much to be thankful for with this assembly of Pennsylvania talents and flavors.
Meet the Makers • To create his feast, designer Eddie Ross combined food, flowers, wine, and decor from his favorite makers on Philadelphia’s Main Line. “Go easy on yourself this year,” Ross says. “And feel good about it too.”
Christmas Fun • Hosting a holiday party can be stressful. Doing it on Christmas Eve? Unthinkable. But the duo behind the stationery company Sugar Paper show us how it’s done—with a simple menu and plan.
Gather Round • Multitaskers, take note. You can have fun and get things done. See how these friends prep and pull off a productive—and festive—wreath-making party.
Feast for the Eyes • Setting a festive scene, these transporting tablescapes are guaranteed to put guests in the holiday spirit.
Midday and MERRY • Satisfy every appetite and spread holiday cheer with a build-your-own brunch bar.
WRAPPED & ready • Wrapping gifts can be a lonely, last-minute to-do. But add food and friends, and suddenly it’s a party!
The highlights of Hanukkah • For one family, a blend of traditional foods and a blue-and-white table makes the festival personal.
SEASON to TASTE • Christmas-theme cocktails get guests in the spirit and usher in holiday “cheers.”
Merry & Bright • Young ones can contribute in wonderful ways to the decorating, baking, and hosting that happens this time of year. Get them in on the fun!
All Together Now • In this Connecticut home, whipping up brunch on Christmas morning is a family affair where three generations pitch in.
A Toast to You Party of the NewYear • Ring in the New Year like a boss with this simple party plan. It all starts with champagne and three liqueurs for a fun, festive night.
break out the Bubbles • You don’t need an excuse to pop open a bottle of sparkling wine. It’s truly for all occasions, says Caitlin Corcoran of Kansas City’s Ça Va, a wine bar devoted to “bringing champagne to the people.” We like that attitude. Here, she shares her favorite bubbly beverages to celebrate the season—and beyond.
Kid-Style Countdown • Plan a New Year’s celebration that includes the kiddos (and anyone else who’d love some family-friendly fun). These ideas for food, drinks, dancing, and crafts will get the party started—and keep it going all...