The holidays are a magical time of year for gathering together with loved ones, and planning some family-friendly events in the home is the best way to keep everyone upbeat. As a bonus, putting on a great movie or a cheerful album of holiday songs will set the tone for a good time, even if you have that one stubborn uncle trying to steer conversations into politics at the dinner table. In 2018, a third of Americans traveled for Christmas and Thanksgiving, which means that there’s a good chance that a few of those 113 million people will be your guests this year – here are a few tips for hosting a holiday experience.

Holiday Home Theater Ideas

A Christmas movie, particularly an old classic, is an excellent way for generations to bond and talk fondly about their holiday memories. Screening timeless favorites like A Christmas Story or Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer makes for great background noise and gives little ones something to pay attention to. If more modern, popular movies would do better with your crowd, lighthearted, and predictable feel-good stories like Hallmark’s endless parade of girl-meets-boy seasonal love stories are perfect for popcorn-munching before and after dinner.

Let the Sleigh Bells Ring

If your holiday home theater ideas extend outdoors – particularly if Arizona is lucky enough to get some snow in time for Christmas this year – you don’t need to leave the festivities behind. The audio-visual experts at Cathey’s can help you set up outdoor speakers and more on a porch or patio. You’ll be able to put on an album of Christmas carols inside and enjoy it outside as you gather around a fire pit and enjoy the crisp, cool air in your backyard. (And hey, there’s no rule that says that s’mores aren’t holiday-appropriate snacks!)

Cozy Warmth in High Definition

Opinions on the infamous digital yule log may vary, but there’s no arguing that it’s easier than installing a fireplace. Often shown by a television network or channel around the holidays, there are – believe it or not – digitally remastered versions of this ever-burning stack of wood available streaming through websites and apps like Netflix, both of which can be streamed to your smart/connected television. The choices range as far as the type of wood used (birch versus oak) to the accompanying soundtracks, which vary from robust Christmas carols to subtle seasonal instrumentals. Getting that snuggly holiday vibe has never been easier when you call CAVE for help – with a push of a button, your professionally-installed television instantly becomes an express route for Santa to pop by on Christmas eve.

This year, while you’re deciding what kind of festive snacks to offer, take a moment and display your favorite holiday tunes and flicks too. Having a steady stream of entertainment makes it easier for guests to relax and enjoy their visit, and it will give you some well-deserved social breathing room at the same time.