Make sure that your 2021 Christmas dinner party is your most magnificent ever, with a bit of preparation and a whole lot of festive magic.

Last year’s Christmas celebrations didn’t necessarily go to plan, so this year we’re looking forward to getting together with friends and family for a long overdue catch up at the Christmas dinner party. Great food and drink, and even better company, are what make the occasion so special but there are things that you can do to ensure your Christmas dining plans run smoothly and  inspirational images are by Our Food Stories images of Christmas past.

Preparing to party

Much of the hard work for the celebrations can take place before the big day. Start by blitzing your cooking and dining areas to give you the most space possible. Kitchen appliances that you won’t be using on the day can be stored away for extra counter space.

Now your kitchen is clear, think about your menu and how much space you have. Even if you have Michelin-starred ambitions, it’s likely that you don’t have a full scale industrial kitchen and a team of sous chefs to fill it. Plan a menu that won’t have you ranting like Gordon Ramsey – if you’re planning multiple courses, choose at least one that can be made ahead and finished off on the big day.

When cooking more than usual, it’s even more important to clean as you go. Keep the sides clear, bins emptied and the dishwasher going as needed. This is a great opportunity for other family members to chip in and help if you’re acting as head chef!

Ask ahead about dietary requirements

We want everyone to enjoy their Christmas dining, so be sure to ask ahead if anyone has any dietary restrictions or particularly hated meals. That way you won’t be whipping up a surprise gluten-free vegan meal on the big day!

Use your kitchen as a buffet

We love the vision of a vast dining table groaning with serving dishes at Christmas, but if your family dining table is on the smaller side, this isn’t always possible. Instead, why not allow the guests to serve themselves in the kitchen and then return to your beautifully decorated table. Without needing to leave space for serving dishes, you can plan more elaborate decorations.

Professional hacks for a fuss-free Christmas dinner party

• Almost all of your vegetables can be prepared the night before. Delicate leaves are best tackled just before serving, but all of your festive root vegetable favourites can be peeled, chopped and stored in cold water until needed.
• Most traditional Christmas dinner starters can be either made ahead or assembled with minimal cooking on the day. It’s an excellent time to bring back the prawn cocktail!
• Set up a hot chocolate station to occupy your guests and buy yourself some extra prep time. Everyone loves hot chocolate on a chilly day and nobody with a sweet tooth will be able to resist. Add an array of sweets and toppings, and perhaps a bottle of Baileys for those seeking a more boozy winter warmer.
• For younger guests, consider some entertainment away from your beautifully decorated table. Depending on the age of the children, colouring, crafts, board games or toys could help to keep them occupied while you wait for dinner.
• Don’t forget to have fun – it’s your Christmas too!