Host a Laid-Back Holiday Gathering with Jolly’s Chicken and Fish: Tips for a Cozy, Casual Celebration
The holiday season is a time for gathering, but it doesn’t have to be a grand, formal affair every time. Sometimes, a laid-back, non-traditional holiday gathering is the perfect way to enjoy the company of friends and family, savor delicious food, and create warm, lasting memories without the fuss. At Jolly’s Chicken and Fish in Highland, IN, we know how to serve up great food with a side of relaxation. Here are some simple tips to help you host a stress-free, enjoyable holiday gathering this year.
1. Go Casual with the Menu 🍗🍤
Forget the multi-course formal dinner—opt for a buffet-style spread of hearty comfort food instead. Our fried chicken and seafood options, like golden catfish, perch, and crispy jumbo shrimp, are perfect for a no-fuss gathering. Pair our Fish Buckets or Chicken Platters with sides like fries, coleslaw, or mac & cheese for a meal that’s sure to satisfy everyone without the need for fancy place settings or multiple courses.
2. Set Up a Cozy, Self-Serve Buffet 🍽️
Setting up a self-serve buffet encourages your guests to relax and serve themselves, creating a casual, cozy vibe. Arrange your Jolly’s food in easy-to-grab containers and serveware—platters for fried chicken, baskets for fries, and plates for sides. Add a few simple signs labeling each dish for easy navigation, and let everyone dig in at their own pace.
3. Create a Casual Seating Arrangement 🛋️
Encourage mingling by setting up comfy, informal seating areas rather than a formal dining table. Arrange chairs, sofas, and even floor cushions around coffee tables or low tables, and place small tables for drinks and snacks throughout the space. This makes it easy for guests to settle wherever they like, creating a relaxed and friendly atmosphere where everyone can chat and enjoy the food.
4. Offer Grab-and-Go Finger Foods 🥪
Finger foods are a great way to keep things casual and let guests move around freely. Jolly’s Breaded Fish Sandwiches make fantastic grab-and-go bites—no need for forks and knives. Pair them with dipping sauces, condiments, and napkins for easy eating and cleanup. Add some simple sides like vegetable trays, fruit skewers, or chips to round out the menu without extra effort.
5. Use Festive Decor with a Laid-Back Twist 🎄
Add a festive touch to your space without going overboard. Keep it simple and cozy with soft lighting, string lights, or candles, and incorporate seasonal colors or a few well-placed holiday decorations. A small Christmas tree, holiday garlands, or a few ornaments can give a festive feel without making things overly formal.
6. Create a Relaxed, Fun Atmosphere 🎶
Set the mood with a playlist of upbeat holiday tunes, or even classic rock or jazz for a relaxed vibe. Background music will keep things lively without interrupting conversations. For some extra fun, set up a casual holiday photo booth with props like Santa hats, reindeer antlers, and silly holiday glasses—perfect for a few laughs and memorable snapshots!
7. Encourage a Casual Dress Code 👕
Make it clear to your guests that this is a casual get-together, so they know they can show up in jeans, cozy sweaters, or even holiday-themed pajamas. When everyone’s dressed comfortably, it adds to the laid-back ambiance and helps everyone relax.
8. Let Jolly’s Handle the Food – Order Ahead for Stress-Free Hosting 🎉
One of the best parts of a laid-back, non-traditional holiday gathering is that it doesn’t require hours of cooking. Simply order from Jolly’s Chicken and Fish, where you can get everything from Fish Buckets to fried chicken and side dishes to satisfy a crowd. This way, you can focus on enjoying the party and your guests, leaving the food prep to us!
Celebrate the Season with Flavor and Fun
The holidays are all about spending quality time with loved ones, and a laid-back gathering is the perfect way to create that cozy, welcoming atmosphere. With delicious food from Jolly’s in Highland, IN, a relaxed setup
