We are in the middle of some of the year’s most anticipated gatherings. New Year’s Eve is just days away and Game Day festivities are coming up just a month later. If you want to throw a bash that everyone will remember, here are four tips guaranteed to liven up any party, big or small.

Set a Theme

A theme sets the overall mood of your event and can be especially helpful in breaking the ice if you are throwing a party where most of the guests won’t know each other. Whether it’s a costume, gift exchange, or treasure hunt, a theme can help establish a common ground or goal that will get everyone talking and laughing out of pure necessity.

Offer a Variety of Refreshments

A delicious spread is one of the single most important factors in throwing a good party. Keep in mind that different types of parties will create different standards and expectations regarding food. For example, an elaborate meal might be appropriate for a fancy holiday or graduation party, but casual snacks are better for a Game Day extravaganza. It’s also important to note that some of your guests may have dietary restrictions or allergies. A well-planned menu featuring an assortment of snacks and dishes will go a long way in making sure your guests are happy.

Turn Up the Music

Music is a must-have at any party, no matter the occasion. It can provide quiet ambiance for a black tie event, get the crowd moving during a festive celebration, or bring back memories during an anniversary party. If you’re planning a large enough party, hiring a DJ can help engage your guests with comments, playlists, song requests, and interactive dances. Who doesn’t love those?

Play Games

Games are another great way to entertain a group of any size. While there are a lot of great party games out there, card games have been making a comeback. While people have been planning small get-togethers around the game of Poker for generations, specialized card games like Cards Against Humanity have wide appeal and are basically guaranteed to have your guests in stitches. Children’s games like Uno and Skip-Bo can also provide quality family-friendly entertainment. If you’re wondering where to find Cards Against Humanity and other similar card games, click here.

These are just a few ways to bring new life to your parties. Whether you’re throwing a wild bash or a simple holiday affair, these tips will help keep everyone engaged and entertained.