How to Host a Christmas Movie Watch Party at Your Brewery
Hosting a Christmas movie watch party at your brewery can be a fantastic way to bring in the holiday cheer, attract new customers, and give your regulars a memorable experience! It's a fun, easy event that requires minimal setup but can create maximum impact. Here’s how to turn your brewery into a cozy holiday haven for the ultimate Christmas movie night.
1. Choose the Right Movies (or Theme!)
A holiday movie lineup can really set the tone. Whether you opt for classics like It's a Wonderful Life and A Christmas Story or something a bit more modern like Elf or The Polar Express, pick films that fit your crowd. A family-friendly afternoon could feature animated hits, while an evening show could bring out the nostalgia with timeless classics or even a “Christmas Horror Night” lineup.
Tip: Make it interactive by having customers vote on the movies in advance on social media, or choose a theme like “Holiday Romance,” “Christmas Comedies,” or “Santa Classics” to narrow down the list!
2. Set the Scene with Festive Décor
Create a warm and inviting atmosphere with classic Christmas decorations. Twinkling string lights, garlands, a decorated Christmas tree, and holiday-themed table settings can really transform your brewery. Think about adding holiday-themed inflatables or cardboard cutouts of iconic Christmas characters near the screen to enhance the viewing experience.
For an extra touch, use dim lighting to create that “homey” feel and play holiday music before and after the movies to keep the vibe merry.
3. Prepare Seasonal Beers and Holiday Beverages
What’s a brewery event without some exclusive brews? Showcase holiday-inspired beers like winter warmers, spiced ales, or festive stouts. If you have a limited-edition holiday beer, this is the perfect time to promote it.
For non-beer drinkers, consider offering hot cocoa, mulled wine, or spiked eggnog. These options add to the cozy, festive atmosphere and make the event more inclusive.
Pro Tip: A “flight and flicks” deal lets customers sample a selection of holiday brews while watching the movie!
4. Offer Themed Snacks and Festive Food Specials
Pair those seasonal brews with some holiday-themed snacks! Popcorn is a movie essential, but you can give it a holiday twist with flavors like caramel-gingerbread or peppermint-chocolate. Other ideas include:
Gingerbread cookies and candy canes
Holiday charcuterie boards with seasonal cheeses and cured meats
Pretzels with beer cheese dip (with a sprinkle of rosemary for a festive twist!)
5. Create Fun Activities and Holiday Giveaways
To keep everyone engaged, add some holiday activities and giveaways! Here are some ideas:
Holiday Trivia: Between movies, host a round of Christmas trivia, Elf trivia or A Christmas Story trivia. Give small prizes for the most correct answers or funniest responses!
Ugly Sweater Contest: Encourage guests to wear their ugliest holiday sweater and award a prize to the most festive outfit.
Gift Exchange: Organize a Secret Santa gift exchange or a small white elephant gift game for those who want to participate.
Raffle off gift cards, holiday merchandise, or exclusive brewery swag, such as holiday pint glasses or festive T-shirts.
6. Promote the Event on Social Media and Locally
Spread the word to get a great turnout. Post about the event on social media platforms and partner with local holiday events or groups to share it. An early RSVP option with a discount or a drink included can help gauge interest and build excitement.
Use hashtags like #ChristmasAtTheBrewery or #HolidayMovieNight to attract attention and share fun photos and updates!
7. Set Up a Cozy Outdoor or Indoor Viewing Area
If space allows, set up a big screen indoors or even outside, if your brewery has a heated patio. Comfy seating options—like bean bags, couches, or even blankets—can make it extra cozy.
For outdoor viewing, make sure you have enough heaters, blankets, and maybe even fire pits to keep guests warm. An indoor option could include comfy seating with blankets for that cozy-at-home feel.
8. Consider Adding a Charity Angle
The holiday season is all about giving back. Partner with a local charity to host a toy drive or donate a portion of sales from the night to a local cause. Encourage attendees to bring donations like toys or canned goods for those in need.
9. Get Creative with Your Event Branding
Create a catchy name for your event, like “Beers and Cheers Holiday Movie Night” or “Brews & Christmas Views.” Add a holiday twist to your regular branding and use themed posters and posts to promote the event. Decorate your logo with Santa hats or snowflakes to give it that extra touch of Christmas charm.
Wrapping Up the Holiday Fun
A Christmas movie watch party is an easy yet effective way to bring people together, spread some holiday cheer, and make your brewery the place to be this season. From festive brews to cozy seating and memorable movie moments, every detail contributes to a great experience. So deck the halls, fire up the screen, and get ready to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year—brewery-style!
