A housewarming party is a traditional celebration that allows you to share your new space with friends and family, while making memories as you settle into your new surroundings. With a bit of planning, it’s easy to host an event that feels relaxed and enjoyable.
To help, we’ve put together this guide with all the information you need to throw a memorable housewarming party. With our tips, you’ll host a party that lets you enjoy your new home, leaving the hard work of the move far behind you.
Good planning is the key to a great housewarming party. Here's how to keep things simple and fun.
Whether it’s a cosy gathering or a big celebration, start with a guest list that fits your space and style. If you’re unsure who to invite to your housewarming party, start with your close friends, family members and even new neighbours you’d like to get to know.
Digital invitations are convenient and cost-effective, while physical invitations might be useful for neighbours with whom you haven't yet traded contact information.
Deciding when to have a housewarming party will depend on several factors, including how far you’ve progressed with unpacking, and even the season you’re moving in. If you’re moving during summer, a balmy evening might be preferable to avoid the midday heat. Winter housewarming parties are perfect for a cosy afternoon with warm drinks and comfort food.
Don't feel obliged to throw your housewarming party as soon as you move in. Give yourself time to settle in before hosting.
Make your housewarming party stand out with a theme that suits your style and your guests. Some popular options include hosting a family-friendly backyard BBQ. Anything outside usually works well, especially if you expect kids to attend. If you want to get creative, a 'make-your-own-pizza' event could be a fun and interactive way to celebrate.
Themes help make it easier for your guests to decide what to wear to a housewarming party and can set the tone for the event.
Knowing how to host a great housewarming party means balancing hospitality with a relaxed atmosphere.
Remember to stock extra basics like soap, toilet paper and hand towels. You can also manage rubbish by placing a few extra bins and recycling boxes around the place.
When planning what to serve at your housewarming, keep it simple and consider a mix of finger foods and snacks. Think cheese boards, sliders, mini pizzas and fresh salads or any type of appetiser people can graze on.
A ‘bring a plate’ style housewarming can also be a fun way to involve your guests. For drinks, don't go overboard with variety, but do offer both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
Plan your housewarming party layout so guests can easily move around and have lively conversations. Create indoor and outdoor seating areas and place snacks and drinks in accessible locations which encourages everyone to mingle.
Adding fresh flowers, a welcome sign and some soft background music will help create some atmosphere and make your housewarming party feel special.
With the basics sorted, it's time to plan the activities that will make your housewarming party one to remember. Here are a few ideas to get you started.
Throwing a housewarming party is a great opportunity to show off your new space. Break the ice with a few relaxed tours to help guests settle in and get chatting. Point out unique features, share some stories about the house, or chat about your reno plans – then enjoy their reactions as they explore.
Games are a great way to get everyone mingling. Try lawn games like giant Jenga or backyard cricket for an outdoor housewarming. Hosting indoors? Pull out some board games, play charades or trivia.
Set up a photo wall with a polaroid camera so guests can snap some fun selfies. Ask them to leave behind their snapshots which you can display on your fridge as a reminder of the fun everyone had.
If your new home has a garden and some extra space, plant a tree with your guests to celebrate your new beginnings and make your housewarming party more meaningful.
Hosting a housewarming party can be a joyful and memorable experience. By keeping it simple, you can create a warm and welcoming event with a few special touches, making sure you can relax and enjoy the time yourself.
* T&Cs and eligibility criteria apply. Offer subject to availability. Alinta Energy customers can receive up to 4 free hours of moving services from Adlam Transport per 12 month period from your last free move. For more than 4 hours, or on days when the moving truck is not available, a discounted rate will be payable by the customer. Excludes optional extra services offered by Adlam, such as insurance. Only one free move is available per day during weekdays. The moving services will not be available in the event that Adlam Transport is unable to operate due to any reason whatsoever. Full T&Cs available here.
# 1 business day's notice required. T&Cs apply.
# 1 business day's notice required. You must ensure there is clear and safe meter access. To have power reconnected, the mains switch must be in the 'off' position and all other safety requirement specified during our online moving process must be met. If you're with another energy provider at your current property, you'll need to contact them to organise the disconnection of energy and close your account.
