The Root’s Ultimate Guide to Holiday Dos and Don’ts

One of the best parts of the holiday season is the chance to spend time with friends and loved ones. Whether it’s your old crew from high school or your office bestie from your first job, holiday parties are a great excuse to reconnect with people you’ve lost touch with – and make new friends in the process.

But where there is food (and potentially alcohol), there is also the opportunity to make a huge mistake that might offend the host and the other guests. So before you head out the door, check out our list of holiday party dos and don’ts that will make sure you stay on the nice list this season.

DON’T – Bring a Guest Without the Host’s OK

If the invite says “no plus ones,” don’t try to finesse your best friend, third cousin, or anybody else into the function – no matter how cool you think you are with the host. They’ve already planned their menus around the number of guests they’re expecting, so be respectful. And while we’re on the topic, plus one does not mean plus five. Don’t be that person.

DO – Stick to the Dress Code

One of the best ways to let people know you’re a Scrooge without saying so is by making a point of not adhering to the party’s dress code. If it’s an ugly sweater party, just get in the spirit and comply. After all, there’s nothing wrong with a little holiday whimsy.

DON’T – Show Up Empty Handed

Even if the host says, “Just bring yourself,” it’s always best to still show up with something. Whether it’s a bottle of wine, a dessert or a sweet scented candle, it’s always nice to assure people you were raised right – and it’ll leave a good impression on the host, too.

DO – Respect The Bar

Don’t let the bar disrespect you. Enjoy yourself, get lit, turn up–but know your limits. Being tipsy is one thing, but becoming the drunk person who’s acting belligerent and making everyone else uncomfortable is embarrassing for both you and everyone else. No one wants a viral moment they didn’t consent to.

DON’T – Disrespect Somebody Else’s Cooking (Not Out Loud, At Least)

Look, we know all mac and cheeses aren’t made equal, but even if your in-laws’ version does look a little suspicious, keep that commentary to yourself. Publicly clowning someone’s cooking – especially in their own home – is rude, and the swiftest way for you to never get invited back (You might even get cussed out on the way out the door too). Tread lightly and just skip over sampling it!

DO – Engage With Other Guests

Parties are all about engaging with others, so for the love of all that is holy, please put your phone away when you arrive. Talking and texting with others is not only rude, it’s the best way to make sure you’ll miss out on all of the fun happening around you. We’ll make an exception for emergency phone calls from close friends or immediate family members, but otherwise, stay off your phone until you get home.

DO – Avoid Controversial Conversation Topics

When you are making small talk with other guests, do your best to stick to topics that are on the lighter side, like the last good book you read or your favorite binge-worthy shows on television. Whatever you do, try to steer the conversation away from talk about politics, religion, Kendrick v. Drake, or anything that might bring down the festive mood – or worse, get folks to start fighting.