Whimsical Winter Garden Party Ideas

As the days get shorter and the weather gets colder, it can be tough to find things to do outside, let alone get out of bed! But don't worry, we've got a few ideas up our woolly sleeve!  

These winter garden party ideas are the perfect way to get outside and enjoy the fresh air with your loved ones. From a festive outdoor dinner to a heated game night, we've got something for everyone. So, grab your friends and family and get ready to have some fun!  

How to Host a Magical Outdoor Garden Party in Winter

1. Choose a Snug Spot 

When it comes to choosing the perfect outdoor location for your winter garden party, there are a few things to keep in mind.  

First, you'll want to find a spot that gets plenty of sunlight during the day. Not only will this help keep your guests warm, but it will also create a magical ambiance as the sun sets and the fairy lights come on.  

Secondly, you'll want to make sure your chosen location is large enough to accommodate all your guests comfortably. Nothing puts a damper on a party quicker than overcrowding! And lastly, don't forget to take aesthetics into consideration. A beautiful setting will help create an overall feeling of warmth and sophistication.  

2. Invest in Some Good Lighting 

Now that the sun goes down earlier, string lights are a must to keep spirits high and set a warm ambiance. They’ll not only add some extra light, but also create a festive and magical atmosphere.  

If you really want to go all out, invest in some lanterns or tiki torches. Just be sure to keep an eye on them, especially if there’s any wind. You don’t want anyone getting too close and risking injury. 

3. Make It Cosy 

No one wants to be cold at a party, so make sure your guests are comfortable by providing plenty of blankets. Throw them over chairs or have them available for people to grab as they need them. You could even set up a blanket fort or two for the kiddos (or the young at heart). And if you have a fire pit, now is definitely the time to use it!  

Just be cautious and make sure everyone knows how to safely use it before lighting it up. Roasting marshmallows is always a hit, no matter what age you are! 

4. Serve Seasonal Snacks and Drinks 

Get creative with your food and drinks and serve things that will warm your guests from the inside out! Slow cooker recipes are perfect for this type of thing since they can be made ahead of time and kept warm until party time. Soups, stews, hot cocoa…the sky’s the limit! And don’t forget the goodies! Cookies, cakes, and pies always go over well in the wintertime.  

Winter Garden Party Decor Ideas

The cold putting a damper on your creativity? Here are some winter garden party decor ideas to get you started! 

1. Berry Wreaths 

This is an easy DIY project that can be done with items you probably already have in your home. All you need is a grapevine wreath, some fake berries, and a hot glue gun. Simply glue the berries onto the wreath, and voila! .

2. Mason Jar Luminaries  

Mason jars are perfect for garden parties because they add a touch of rustic charm. To make mason jar luminaries, simply place a battery-operated tealight inside each jar. You can then use them to line walkways or decks, or place them around your seating area for added ambiance. 

3. Snowman Lanterns 

These are so simple and so cute! All you need is a lantern, some black construction paper, and a hot glue gun. Cut out two eyes and a mouth from the construction paper and glue them onto the lantern. Then, place a battery-operated tealight inside, and you've got yourself a snowman lantern! 

Winter Garden Party Food Ideas

From hearty appetisers to delicious main courses and sweet treats, cooking up delicious winter-inspired dishes is a sure way to warm up your guests. Give these winter party food ideas a try for a truly spectacular spread:  

1. Mini Grilled Cheese Sandwiches 

These savoury treats are easy to make and sure to be a hit with your guests. To make these delicious sandwiches, simply slice some fresh bread, butter the outsides, and then layer with your favourite cheeses and a sprinkling of fresh herbs. Pop them in the oven or on the grill until they're golden brown and crispy. Cut them into quarters and you've got the perfect finger food for your outdoor winter party! 

2. Bacon-wrapped Dates  

Bacon-wrapped dates are the perfect combination of sweet and savoury. To make these tasty treats, stuff pitted dates with your favourite soft cheese and then wrap each one with a slice of bacon. Bake in the oven until the bacon is crispy, and you'll have unique and delicious appetisers that your guests will be raving about weeks after your outdoor winter party. 

3. Slow-cooked Pulled Pork Sliders  

These savoury sandwiches are easy to make and bound to be a crowd pleaser. Simply toss some pork shoulder or your meat of choice into a slow cooker with some seasonings, and let it cook until it's fall-apart tender. Then, pile the shredded pork onto slider buns along with your favourite toppings like tangy barbecue sauce and fresh coleslaw for a delicious dinner! 

4. Cheesy Baked Mac and Cheese Bites  

These delicious bite-sized treats are easy to make and the perfect accompaniment to your other outdoor winter party food spread. Simply combine cooked pasta with some melted butter, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped garlic, and a dash of salt and pepper. Then, scoop the mixture into greased mini muffin tins, bake until golden brown.  

5. Chocolate Mousse Parfaits 

And for a sweet treat to end your outdoor winter party on a high note, why not try some chocolate mousse parfaits? These creamy and indulgent desserts are a perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth while keeping things light and refreshing. Simply layer chocolate pudding, fresh whipped cream, and crushed peppermints in pretty glass or parfait cups for the ultimate decadent dessert at your outdoor winter party. 

With a little bit of imagination and creativity, hosting a gorgeous outdoor garden party in winter is easier than you think! By following these simple tips, you'll be able to throw an event that's both fun and memorable for all your friends and family—no matter what Mother Nature throws your way!  

If your garden is a bit cramped or in need of a total makeover, use self storage to safely store your belongings while you create a whimsical garden perfect for entertaining. Storage King offers affordable and flexible personal storage solutions with a wide variety of unit sizes so you can store valuable household items during the winter months or as long as you like! Pop into your nearest location for a tour or get a quick and easy quote online