1. Clean your fireplace

Heavy-duty cleaning should be left to a professional, but it’s easy to spruce up the fireplace and make it look clean and cozy before guests arrive. Make sure your fireplace is completely cool, and then remove dust, soot and ash – including vacuuming the walls of the fireplace to remove anything stubborn. Spot-clean unpainted brick with a mixture of cream of tartar and water, and polish fireplace glass to remove the grime that accumulates.

2. Stock up on Every Night firelogs 

Super easy to light, Duraflame Every Night firelogs produce bright, bold flames in just a few minutes with no fuss and no hassle – perfect for when you’ve got hosting duties to attend to! 

3. Create a signature cocktail

We’re all about BYOB the rest of the year, but a holiday party around the fire calls for something special. Heat up classic spiked eggnog by adding a dash of cayenne pepper, or bust out the bourbon and wow your guests with this shimmery cider.  Check out more festive fireside sips recipes here.

4. Make some fun and easy appetizers

Who doesn’t love a meat and cheese board? Nothing pairs better with fun, fire and friends. You don’t have to be a great cook to produce a beautiful, tasty and photogenic platter. Just head to the supermarket and pick out whatever strikes your fancy. For more inspiration, check out our charcuterie board suggestions.

5. Make a fun playlist

What’s a party without music? For a holiday shindig, keep things upbeat by putting together a playful mix of sing-along hits, nostalgic classics and holiday faves. Your guests will be singing and swaying along in no time. Need some inspiration? Check out our holiday party playlist here!