How to host the ultimate Friendmas
There’s something truly special about an Australian Christmas—sunny days, warm evenings, and a relaxed, festive vibe. While family celebrations are a tradition, “Friendmas” is the perfect opportunity to fill your new home with laughter, warmth, and cheer, creating memories with the friends who supported you through the journey of building your home.
Here’s how to make your first Friendmas one to remember.
Choose your spaces
Hosting Friendmas is the perfect occasion to show off your new place, so choose the best spots to let it shine. Open-plan layouts are ideal for gatherings, allowing guests to flow easily between the kitchen, dining, and living areas.
Picture the Christmas tree as the festive focal point, doors open to the alfresco to create an easy indoor-outdoor flow, and friends mingling through the beautifully designed spaces. Your home’s entertainer potential was undoubtedly part of your vision, so now’s the time to test it out. Set a date, invite your friends, and prepare to let the good times roll!
Set the Christmassy scene
Now’s the time to bring out your inner decorator and give your new nest that extra merry magic. Start with a photo-worthy Christmas tree as your centrepiece, then add fairy lights, candles, and accents that reflect your style.
Whether you go for a classic red and green palette, a Scandi-inspired minimalist look, or a whimsical pop of colours, a cohesive theme can make the space feel warm and inviting.
Extend this style to the dining table with creative place settings, greenery, and a few personal touches.
And if you’re hosting outside, set up the alfresco dining area with casual seating to keep things relaxed and breezy, making your guests feel right at home.
Bring on the Festive Feast
Food is the heart of any Friendmas celebration, and your kitchen and dining area are ready to host an unforgettable spread.
A potluck-style dinner is a fantastic way to enjoy a variety of dishes while taking some pressure off the host, with each friend bringing something special—whether it’s a honey-glazed ham, fresh seafood, or a classic Aussie pavlova.
As friends arrive with platters in hand, the joy of welcoming them into your home becomes real. Those kitchen features you carefully selected—the spacious island bench and a walk-in or butler’s pantry—become the perfect stage for this feast.
It’s a moment to savour: your dream space is now alive with loved ones, laughter, and delicious holiday treats.
Plan some jolly fun & games
No Friendmas is complete without a few fun activities to keep the energy up. Start with a lively Kris Kringle or Bad Santa gift exchange for some laughs and quirky surprises. After the feast, set up a cookie or gingerbread decorating station—it’s hands-on fun that lets everyone get a little creative (and competitive).
Then, as the day winds down, dim the lights, blow out the candles, and gather everyone in your dedicated home theatre for a cosy Christmas movie. You could even organise a pre-party vote to let everyone pick the festive film for the night, making it a relaxed, nostalgic end to a perfect day.
Hosting in your new Homebuyers Centre home?
Make sure you share it with us on Instagram, tag @homebuyerscentrevic and #hbcvicwin, for a chance to score a $100 digital gift card.