See Monkey Do

A Christmas Caroling Party is a great way to spread the spirit of Christmas. It’s sure to brighten the neighborhood and the hearts of all involved. Read on for a delicious drink recipe, great for serving at your party, followed by Christmas party ideas.

Ingredients:

• 1 gallon apple cider
• 2 bartlett pears, cut into wedges
• 4 cinnamon sticks
• 1 bottle pinot noir
• 2 red delicious apples, cut into wedges
• 1 tsp ground ginger

Preparation:

1. Combine all ingredients in a large pot on the stove. Heat on medium-high until boiling.
2. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes, uncovered
3. Remove cinnamon sticks with a slotted spoon.
4. Keep pot over a low flame so that guests can serve themselves.

TIPS

• Set the mood for the party with invitations. Make the invitations festive by printing them on music scrolls and delivering the rolled up scrolls with a beautiful red ribbon.
• Purchase santa hats, reindeer antler or some other costume item that everyone can wear to indicate that you’re a group of carolers.
• Ask your guests to gather at your home about an hour before you plan on caroling - 6 or 7pm. Be sure to stop caroling at about 9pm.
• Only visit the homes of people you know.
• Distribute lyric books among your guests so that everyone can sing along with confidence.
• Ask your guests to dress comfortably for caroling outside. Encourage festive attire in Christmas colors such as red and green.
• Safety first. Be sure children are looked after. Have flashlights on hand.
• Bring along hand instruments such as tambourines or sleigh bells to enhance your songs.