How to Host a Cozy Holiday Movie Night: The Ultimate Guide

There’s nothing quite like the feeling of being curled up at home, cozy and warm, watching a holiday movie with your favorite treats. Whether you’re hosting friends, family, or enjoying a solo evening, creating the perfect holiday movie night can set the tone for an unforgettable season. Here’s how to host the ultimate cozy holiday movie night, with a little help from my favorite products, and, of course, some must-watch films.

1. Set the Scene with Candlelight

What’s a cozy night without candles? To truly set the mood, light a few of your favorite scents. A good candle adds warmth and ambiance to any space, and trust me, it makes all the difference. Choose candles with scents that invoke the feeling of the season, like Amber + Orange Clove or Tobacco + Spice from the Fall and Winter collections. These rich, warm fragrances will fill your space with comfort and holiday cheer.

For a more festive touch, we love the idea of mixing in a Woodland Pine + Orange Zest to evoke the scent of fresh-cut Christmas trees or a Fir Needle + Rhubarb for a crisp, holiday forest scent. Just be sure to light them before your guests arrive to ensure the house is perfectly scented.

2. Comfy Blankets and Pillows

You can’t have a cozy movie night without a few soft blankets and comfy pillows. Opt for plush throws that will make everyone want to curl up and relax. You can even create a little blanket fort or pile a few pillows on the floor if you’re feeling extra adventurous. Whether you’re watching from the couch or a comfy chair, layering up in cozy textures is key to feeling like you're in the perfect spot for a holiday binge-watch.

3. Hot Cocoa & Festive Snacks

What’s a movie night without delicious snacks? Serve up a big bowl of buttery popcorn, or for something more festive, try spiced nuts or warm cinnamon sugar pretzels. But the star of the show has to be the hot cocoa. Go the extra mile by topping your cocoa with whipped cream, marshmallows, and a sprinkle of cinnamon or peppermint—just like in those cozy holiday movie scenes.

If you’re feeling indulgent, bake some holiday cookies ahead of time, or make a DIY charcuterie board featuring your favorite cheeses, chocolates, and fruit.

4. Create a Movie Playlist

Now comes the fun part: choosing the movies! You can’t go wrong with a mix of heartwarming holiday classics and romantic favorites. Here are some of Jessica’s top picks to get the mood just right:

• The Holiday: A feel-good rom-com set in picturesque snowy villages with a dash of love and laughter. Plus, who doesn't love a little Cameron Diaz and Jude Law?
• Love Actually: A holiday favorite filled with a little bit of everything—romance, humor, and those heartwarming moments that never get old.
• The Polar Express: Perfect for those who want a little magic and adventure mixed in with their holiday cheer.
• Elf: A must-watch for the comedy and pure holiday spirit. Will Ferrell’s energy is contagious, and who can resist a little Christmas cheer?
• Home Alone: Because no one can ever go wrong with a little Macaulay Culkin and Christmas mischief.

You can even create a fun holiday movie marathon, mixing a few rom-coms, animated classics, and those feel-good Christmas flicks that just make you smile.

5. Dim the Lights and Get Cozy

Once the candles are glowing, the blankets are fluffed, and the snacks are ready, it’s time to dim the lights and press play. Set your space up for comfort and relaxation by turning off any bright overhead lights and embracing a more intimate setting.

Gather your guests (or just yourself) on the couch, and get ready for an evening of relaxation, laughter, and holiday cheer.

6. Make it Last

What better way to finish off the evening than by setting the tone for your next cozy night in? If your guests are leaving, give them a little token of appreciation, like a small candle or room spray, so they can continue the holiday spirit at home. You could even send them home with a little DIY treat bag—some homemade cookies, hot cocoa mix, and a cute note!

Wrapping Up Your Cozy Night

Hosting a cozy holiday movie night is all about creating an atmosphere that’s warm, inviting, and filled with holiday cheer. Candles, blankets, festive snacks, and a carefully curated movie list are the perfect ingredients to make this the ultimate holiday tradition. Whether you're indulging in love stories, hilarious antics, or timeless classics, these simple touches will help you enjoy the season to the fullest.

So, grab your favorite blanket, light up some candles, brew the cocoa, and press play on your holiday favorites. It’s time to enjoy the coziness of the season—one movie at a time!