Party bags are such a classic British tradition that you just don’t see much anymore. But recently, I went to a (grown-up!) friend’s birthday party, and she handed me a party bag as I left – and honestly, I loved it. What a thoughtful, nostalgic way to make guests feel special.
So this year, as part of my mission to bring back some of those lost British traditions, I’ve decided to create Christmas party bags for my festive ‘drinks and nibbles night’ the week before Christmas.
Mine are geared towards adults, but I couldn’t resist sharing ideas for the little ones too. Whether you’re hosting a Christmas party, looking for alternatives to Christmas Eve boxes, or planning something fun for Christmas Day, a festive party bag is such a lovely finishing touch.
Everything You Need To Create a Christmas Party Bag
Creating Christmas party bags honestly couldn’t be easier. You just need:
- The bag itself (or a small box if you’re feeling fancy)
- Some tissue paper or ribbon for zhuzhing
- Name tags, if you’re going down the personal route
- And of course… your filler items!
Your fillers can be as simple or boujee as you like – it’s all about tailoring them to your guests whilst fitting in with your budget.
If you’re in the UK, Homesense/TKMaxx has some fabulous festive party bag multipacks right now – I picked up a red tartan design and a green hollyberry striped one for mine. But you’ll also find brilliant options at Søstrene Grene, Dunelm, or The Range. And if you’re really short on time, Amazon has plenty of last-minute options too.
When To Give Christmas Party Bags
Christmas party bags aren’t just for December birthday parties (although they’re perfect for those, too!). Here are a few fun occasions to use them:
- At your Christmas party – Hand them out as your guests leave, just like the old-school birthday bags we all loved.
- On Christmas Eve – Use them as a mini Christmas Eve box alternative. Fill them with cosy treats like hot chocolate sachets and reindeer food.
- On Christmas Day – Keep kids (or grown-ups!) entertained around the dinner table with mini games, puzzles, or sweet treats.
- On your child’s last day of school – Send your little one in with small Christmas party bags for classmates or teachers. Think mini chocolates, candy canes, or festive stationery – such a lovely way to end the term!
What To Put in Christmas Party Bags For Kids
Keep it cheerful, colourful, and cheap for your little ones. A couple of sweets/chocolates and a game or two is more than enough!:
- Reindeer food – a cute mix of oats and glitter (biodegradable, of course!) for Christmas Eve
- Classic festive sweets – chocolate coins, candy canes, or Heros/Celebrations/Quality Streets
- Sachets of hot chocolate & mini marshmallows
- ‘Colour your own Christmas decoration’ set include a wooden ornament and a few colouring pens
- Bubbles, spinning tops, or bouncy balls
- Christmas-themed stickers
- Temporary tattoos
- Mini notepad and crayons
What To Put in Christmas Party Bags For Adults
For adults, I like my party bags to be slightly more elegant. You can still include a few fun trinkets if that’s your vibe:
- Slightly more grown up versions of the kid’s festive sweets – Lindtt truffles or Lindtt teddy bears, candy canes, Ferrero Rochers
- A funky Christmas tree ornament
- A mini bottle of fizz/wine/liqueur
- Homemade sweet treats – cookies, chocolate bark, or dehydrated citrus slices
- Drink shimmers or cocktail glitter
- Mulled wine spice bags – so easy to DIY these yourself!
- Scratch card or lottery ticket
- Mini puzzles or brain teasers
- Festive shot glass
- Mini jams, chutney, spreads, or honey – Tiptree have a fab selection
- Christmas crackers
- Mini perfumes, lip balms, or facemasks – if you’re hosting a girls night
Hosting Tips & Tricks From Savery Grazing
… and there you have it – how to create your own Christmas party bags! Whether you’re planning a grown-up Christmas drinks night or a magical Christmas Eve with the kids, party bags are such a joyful, nostalgic addition. They certainly don’t need to be expensive – just a few thoughtful additions is a great way to make guests feel cared for.
For more hosting tips, festive recipes, and party inspiration, keep up to date with our blog. For extra foodie and party inspo, follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or Pinterest!
Jasmine Savery
Founder & DirectorHi! I'm Jasmine, and I launched Savery Grazing in 2022. I’ve always had a passion for food, with a particular love for how social it can be. Follow along as I share my favourite tips, tricks, and delicious recipes with you.
Hi! I'm Jasmine, and I launched Savery Grazing in 2022. I’ve always had a passion for food, with a particular love for how social it can be. Follow along as I share my favourite tips, tricks, and delicious recipes with you.