Cocoa and Bonfire Festivities
I’ve been on the subject of parties lately. I think back to the fact that being invited to an outdoor winter party was a catalyst for me to start enjoying winter instead of just enduring it. So here is another idea for hosting a winter gathering to spread some cheer, have some fun, and breathe fresh, cold air.
Hosting a cocoa and bonfire party is the perfect way to add some festivity and excitement in the second half of winter. My kids and I always talk about how after the New Year, there isn’t much going on until Spring. It’s what I call the doldrums of winter. But it doesn’t have to be dull and dismal. You can host a great event for just your family, or go all out and invite a bunch of people.
First, choose a venue where you can safely have a fire. If you don’t have the space in your own yard, consider using a State Park where there are sites with fire pit areas. Check to see if you have to reserve a spot for your party. When you have all your details in order, make and send fun themed invitations. These can be digital or paper.
Two essentials for your party will be the hot cocoa station and the s’mores station. Borrow thermoses and carafes to make sure you have enough cocoa to go around. If you have a site with electricity, you can bring an electric kettle, water, and extra cocoa mix. You can also have a variety of cocoa flavors. The Land-O-Lakes variety bundle is the Cadillac of hot chocolate mixes. It has mint, caramel, dark chocolate, s’more, amaretto, and more! Complete your cocoa bar with toppings like whip cream, candy cane sticks, chocolate shavings, sprinkles, and cinnamon.
Your s’more station will need the basic graham crackers, Hershey bars, and marshmallows. But you’ll want to spice it up with a few out of the box elements. Add different flavor marshmallows like cinnamon or chocolate filled. You can do different sizes and shapes of mallows too. You can get the square ones made especially for s’mores or the giant “campfire” marshmallows for the gooiest snack ever. Alternative chocolates take your s’mores to the next level too. Try Reese’s peanut butter cups, Andes Candies, Mallow cups, or Caramellow bars.
A few activities help keep everyone engaged and enjoying their time out in the cold. Consider having a few games like a scavenger hunt, snowball toss, or snowman building contest. You can make and decorate snow angels if there is enough space nearby. Visit your library for some winter themed stories Like Snow Bear and The Snow Day to read while wrapped up in cozy blankets and drinking cocoa. Use an outdoor speaker to stream music for background ambiance or playing freeze dance.
Fun favors to send home with your guests are packets of hot chocolate with a small candy cane, festive cookies, or a s’more packet with two graham crackers, a marshmallow, and mini Hershey bar.
Lastly, remember to keep safety at the front of your mind. Only build a bonfire in a safe, designated area. Keep a water bucket or fire extinguisher nearby. Have a first aid kit on hand for minor scrapes and cuts. If you’re using any other heat sources, be sure to use them properly.
With these ideas you can throw a fantastic Cocoa and Bonfire party to help everyone beat the winter blues and make great memories together!