Throwing a hip hop-inspired Christmas party is a unique way to celebrate the season with nostalgic beats and creative style. Here’s the ultimate guide to planning a hip hop holiday party that brings the culture to life in a festive way.
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SET THE SCENE WITH DECOR
Wall Decor:
Think classic holiday colors mixed with vibrant golds and striking blacks. Consider records on the walls, hip hop lyric art prints, and LED lights for a street-chic vibe.
Photo Opps:
A party ain't a party without a photo opp! Skip the cheesy backdrops but provide a few hip hop photo props like oversized chains, bucket hats, and sunglasses. Throw in some Santa hats to tie in the holiday theme. If you've got the budget, find a local vendor to provide a creative backdrop that matches the theme and color scheme.
Table Decor:
Keep it chic with solid color tablecloths that go with your color scheme. Use items like hip hop cupcake toppers, mini Christmas trees, and mini LED lights.
CRAFT A HIP HOP PLAYLIST
Include holiday hip hop classics like Run DMC’s "Christmas in Hollis", Snoop Dogg’s “Santa Claus Goes Straight to the Ghetto” or one of my personal favorites -- DMX's version of "Rudolph the Red Nosed Raindeer." Sprinkle in some 90s and early 2000s throwback hits to keep the dance floor lively. Consider curating a hip hop Christmas playlist of both holiday-themed hip hop songs and party hits.
DRESS CODE: HIP HOP HOLIDAY ATTIRE
Encourage guests to come in themed outfits—think “ugly” hip hop Christmas sweaters, oversized jackets, gold chains, and Santa hats. A fun idea could be “Your Favorite Rapper as Santa,” where guests come as a holiday-themed version of their favorite hip hop icon.
FOOD & DRINKS WITH HIP HOP FLAVOR
Finger Foods:
Serve up classic finger foods with playful names, like “Kanye West-ern BBQ Sliders” or “Guac It Like It's Hot.” Consider "Wu-Tang Wings," "Mac Dre and Cheese" or "MC Hummus." Set out a display of Rap Snacks. Have fun with it! The possibilities are endless.
Themed Cocktails:
Name your drinks after famous hip hop songs or artists, like the obvious choice, “Gin and Juice.” Or use this creative list of hip hop theme cocktails to get the party started:
- Hennything is Possible – Hennessy with a splash of cola or ginger ale.
- Mo Money Mojito – Rum-based mojito with a luxurious twist, like a splash of Champagne.
- Bad & Boozy – A strong and glamorous cocktail, like a French 75.
- Wu-Tang Whiskey Sour – Classic whiskey sour, with a bold twist.
- Thug Passion – Inspired by Tupac, this mixes Alizé with Champagne.
- Crunk Juice – Vodka, energy drink, and fruit juice mix.
- In Da Club Soda – Vodka soda with a dash of lime, simple yet refreshing.
PARTY GAMES & ACTIVITIES
Rap Battle Gift Exchange:
Instead of regular white elephant, guests can freestyle a short rap when they’re about to take or steal a gift.
Hip Hop Trivia:
Test everyone’s knowledge with a hip hop trivia game. Include questions about holiday hip hop songs or famous lyrics for added fun.
Hip Hop Karaoke:
After a few of adult beverages, you'll surely get some volunteers for hip hop karaoke! Pull out your karaoke machine and encourage your friends to let loose to their favorite rap song. Bonus points if they choose a hip hop Christmas song!
Best Drip Contest:
Let your guests know up front that you'll be having a contest for best dressed. The contest can be for best hip hop themed sweater, or best hip hop Santa and/or Mrs. Claus. Winners can received hip hop Christmas themed gifts like our exclusive Smells Like Christmas in Hollis Candle, a Biggie Christmas ornament or Tupac Coasters.
HIP HOP PARTY FAVORS
Send guests home with a thoughtful gift. Consider giving each guest a motivational hip hop lyric print in a mini Christmas ornament frame. Use this free download for the prints. These can double as decor as well!
With these tips, you’ll host an unforgettable hip hop Christmas party that pays homage to the culture, creating memories with family and friends that will last a lifetime.
