Holiday parties can generate a lot of waste, but there are many ways that you can incorporate some eco-friendly strategies into your planning. You can still hold an amazing party while thinking of sustainability. Here are some easy tips.
Use Digital Invites
Use alternative invites instead of paper. This saves waste and makes it easier to keep track of RSVPs.
Choose Reusable or Compostable Party Supplies
Use regular plates, cups, cutlery, and glassware rather than disposables.
Alternatively, use compostable supplies that you plan on composting yourself.
Choose cloth tablecloths, runners, and napkins to cut down on disposable alternatives.
Decorate with Natural and Reusable Elements
Use items like greenery, pinecones, candles, oranges, and fabric ribbons. You can also reuse decorations you have, or plan on saving decorations for future years.
Use less packaging
Create platters and bowls of snacks, entrees, and desserts. Shopping in bulk is a great way to achieve this, instead of smaller, individually wrapped items.
For drinks, provide pitchers of water, punch, or cocktails instead than bottled beverages.
Use reusable drinkware and encourage guests to label their glasses to reduce washing and waste.
Meal Planning
Estimate portions based on guest count and plan a realistic menu to reduce food waste.
Focus on dishes made from seasonal, local ingredients whenever possible.
Have a plan for leftover foods, such as having guests take leftovers or freezing the remaining portions.
Set Up Compost, Waste, and Recycling Stations
Create separate bins for recycling, compost, and trash so guests can dispose of items properly.
After the party, be sure to recycle and compost as much as possible, including natural decor.
Encourage Reusable or Low-Waste Gift Options
If your gathering includes gifts, suggest options like experience gifts, homemade items, or reusable wrapping to reduce holiday waste.
Sustainable Party Favors
If you choose to give favors, look for eco-friendly options like homemade treats, small plants, or beeswax candles. You can also skip favors or choose a digital options (such as a digital gift code for a coffee).
I always love when I can be low waste. I don’t throw parties though, but I will keep these tips in mind for everyday life.
That’s such a helpful list! I love that you’re showing people they don’t have to choose between an amazing party and sustainability… we really don’t have to lose the magic just to save on the trash.
I love the idea of compostable party supplies. I’ve always tried to go with reusable items, but composting is even better. Eventually, even the reusable stuff wears out.
Planning a gathering without all that plastic waste actually makes the whole celebration feel much more intentional and special.
These are great tips for the holidays! Changing our habits little by little can make a huge difference.
This is so helpful and totally achievable! We host a lot during the holidays, and I’m always looking for ways to keep our waste to a minimum. Your idea of using compostable and reusable supplies is right on point!
These are super helpful ideas. Hosting a low-waste holiday party is always a good idea.
This is an awesome idea! Reusable is definitely the way to go. I like to reuse gift bags.
Digital vs paper is good. Think of how much paper is not wasted that way! I love the idea too, of sourcing locally for the meals.
The holidays are so much fun, but there is a lot of waste. It happens with a lot even foods, so saving is a great approach, think ahead. A gift to the environment.
Really enjoyed this post. The reusable decorations and thoughtful food choices make low-waste hosting feel realistic, not overwhelming. It’s encouraging to see sustainability fitting naturally into family celebrations.
We usually use less packaging. It’s always to share or bigger packaging. You feel the Holiday spirit more too.
These are great tips! Thank you so much for sharing this. I need this list for next week!