The holiday season is all about cozy nights, festive fun, and quality time with the people you love. Hosting a holiday movie night is the perfect way to bring everyone together — whether it’s a family gathering, a girls’ night in, or a pajama-clad sleepover.

From creating the perfect viewing space to serving up your favorite holiday treats, here’s everything you need to plan the ultimate holiday movie night that feels warm, inviting, and photo-ready.

1. Set the Scene: Create a Cozy Viewing Space

First things first — your setup sets the tone. The goal? A cozy, movie-theater-at-home vibe with festive charm.

• Add layers of comfort: Pile on fluffy blankets, oversized pillows, and soft rugs so guests can lounge anywhere.

• Try an inflatable sleepover bed: For extra seating that’s as fun as it is comfy, the Striped Castle Air Mattress Sleepover Bed from FunBoy makes a stylish statement (and doubles as a nap spot when the credits roll).

• Lighting matters: Turn off overhead lights and use string lights, candles (or battery-operated ones), and a few lamps for that twinkle-lit glow.

• Add festive decor: Think garlands, snowflake cutouts, mini trees, or even a DIY “movie marquee” sign. Keep it simple but special — red and white accents or a metallic shimmer instantly say “holiday.”

2. Dress the Part: Matching Holiday Pajamas

Nothing says holiday movie night like matching pajamas. Encourage your guests to come dressed for the occasion — think soft, comfy, and festive.

We love the Christmas pajamas from In My Jammers, made with viscose from bamboo for that buttery-soft feel. They’re breathable, cozy, and designed for lounging — perfect for family photos or a coordinated movie-night look.

If you’re hosting families, send a reminder for everyone to bring slippers or fuzzy socks too — no cold toes here!

3. Snack Time: Serve Everyone’s Favorites

No movie night is complete without snacks. Stock up on a mix of sweet, salty, and festive treats so there’s something for everyone.

Reader-favorite snacks include:

• Classic buttered popcorn (with a twist — serve it in this Red and Pink Stripe Bamboo Fiber Popcorn Container for a cute holiday touch).

• Peppermint bark or chocolate-dipped pretzels.

• Holiday-themed cookies or sugar-cookie bites.

• A DIY trail mix bar with nuts, M&Ms, mini marshmallows, and cranberries.

You can even print small menu cards with the snack list or display treats on tiered trays for a festive concession-stand look.

4. Build a Hot Cocoa Bar

Nothing warms up a winter night like a mug of rich, creamy hot chocolate. Set up a DIY hot cocoa bar so guests can customize their cup.

Here’s how to create one:

1. Start with the base: Offer regular milk, almond milk, or oat milk in carafes next to a large pot of hot cocoa.

2. Add toppings: Whipped cream, mini marshmallows, candy canes, and chocolate shavings are must-haves.

3. Offer mix-ins: Cinnamon, caramel drizzle, crushed peppermint, or even a sprinkle of sea salt.

4. Include mugs and napkins: Have holiday-themed mugs or paper cups ready, plus festive napkins for drips.

5. Display beautifully: Use trays, jars, and labels for each topping — it doubles as decor!

Pro tip: Add a slow cooker of hot cocoa to keep things warm all night.

5. Choose the Perfect Movie Lineup

Whether you’re in the mood for a laugh, a classic, or something new, pick a few crowd-pleasers to fill your evening. Here are some great options:

• Family favorites: The Polar Express, Elf, Home Alone, The Santa Clause

• Rom-com picks: Love Actually, The Holiday, While You Were Sleeping

• Animated magic: Klaus, Arthur Christmas, The Grinch (2018)

Tip: Let your guests vote ahead of time so everyone’s happy.

6. Add a Touch of Festive Decor

Go beyond the basics with subtle touches that make your space feel like a winter wonderland:

• Hang string lights or snowflake garlands around the TV area.

• Add cozy throw blankets in red, cream, and forest green.

• Scatter a few holiday candles or diffusers for scents like cinnamon, pine, or sugar cookie.

• Place a small Christmas tree near the snack bar — even a tabletop version works.

These little details make your home feel festive without going overboard.

7. Capture the Moment

Before the first movie starts, snap a few photos! Set up a small photo corner with props (Santa hats, popcorn tubs, pajama poses). Not only is it fun, but you’ll also have memories to share or post later.