How to Host the Ultimate Housewarming Party

woman enjoying housewarming party

house·​warm·​ing | \ ˈhau̇s-ˌwȯr-miŋ  \

Definition of housewarming

: a party to celebrate the taking possession of a house or premises


You’ve just moved into your new home and can hardly wait to unpack all those boxes. If you’re the kind of person who wants other people to share in your excitement and joy, you might want to host a housewarming party. 

Wait a minute…what if the party is a disaster and no one talks to each other? What etiquette rules should I know? 

Don’t stress!

Follow along in this article to learn how to host the ultimate housewarming party.

Host a Party When You’re Ready

There’s no need to rush into a party right after moving in. If you’re motivated to invite friends and family to celebrate your new digs, consider hosting one once you unpack most of your boxes and have hung photographs or paintings on your walls. While a party might sound like a lot of work, you can make it as low-key as you want. If you live in a big house and it’s missing furniture, try to add a sofa or chairs before the party so people have places to sit. 

Guest List

First, look at your party budget. It’s fine to keep the guest list intimate, especially since you just bought a house! And for those you invite, try to think about groups of people with a connection to each other (e.g. colleagues, friends, family) and consider the new neighbors on your street. The goal of the party is to expand your social circle, and by inviting a few of the neighbors you’re being friendly and open to communication. 

Hosting Etiquette

Modern etiquette has made hosting a housewarming party a bit easier on the hosts. Here are some top etiquette considerations:

Avoid Asking for Gifts 

No one wants to feel awkward when they receive an invitation to your party. Instead of registering for gifts, if your guests feel inclined to bring you gifts, you should receive them well and write them a handwritten thank-you card. If you receive two of the same item, consider giving one away to someone else who would appreciate it (maybe at a housewarming party!) or return the item to the store if there is a gift receipt.

Low-Stress Food

Think of simple foods when hosting your party and remember your budget. Hors d’oeuvres that require little preparation can work, such as deviled eggs, Hawaiian sliders, and BBQ meatballs. Store-bought foods like fruit and veggies trays can fill in spots on your serving table and provide a variety of colors. And for desserts, you could ask guests to bring a potluck dessert or make cookies, brownies, and other easy treats ahead of time (you can freeze the dough and bake the night before or the morning of the party). 

Remember, catering is another option if you would rather not go to the trouble of making food! If you cater or ask for potluck contributions on the invitation, make sure to provide glasses, cups, plates, utensils, napkins, and ice. 

Consider Activities

The beauty of a housewarming party is that you can have activities if you want. You can play board games, have a tea party, or open up your pool—the only limit is your imagination. If you’re holding an activity outdoors, you might want people to bring lawn chairs and have a backup plan in case of inclement weather.

During the Party

From the moment the party starts, play some music to keep the mood light and make sure that you greet each guest at the door or have a spouse or significant other help out. Expect people to want to take a house tour with you, so relax and show people around in groups—you can indicate which rooms you prefer to stay private. At the end of the night, thank everyone for coming and follow up with thank-you cards for those who bring housewarming gifts. 

The Bottom Line

Hosting a housewarming party is an exciting time to share your life with people who are important to you and is an opportunity to kindle new friendships. The best way to host is to get out of your head and think like your guests. Remember to not judge your home (let’s face it, every house has its flaws), but celebrate its uniqueness. 

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