Carols and hot chocolate night

What it is

A simple, friendly Christmas gathering outside - in a front garden, a driveway or a street (with permission). Everyone sings carols by lantern light and warms up at a hot chocolate bar. It’s a lovely way to bring a neighbourhood together and can raise money for charity.

Plan ahead

• Two weeks before: invite neighbours with a flyer through the door. If you plan to walk the street, check local rules.
• One week before: print carol sheets with 8-10 carols in a large font. Find a guitarist, ukulele player or keyboard - or just play backing tracks on a speaker.
• The day before: set up the hot chocolate bar table and outdoor lights.

Set the scene

Lanterns along the path, fairy lights on hedges, a fire pit or outdoor heater, and blankets on chairs. A small Christmas tree with lights by the hot chocolate table.

Hot chocolate bar

• Big pots of hot chocolate kept warm in slow cookers or flasks
• Toppings: squirty cream, mini marshmallows, chocolate flakes, crushed candy canes, sprinkles and cinnamon
• Adult options: a splash of Baileys or peppermint schnapps, clearly labelled
• Lidded cups for children

Carol list ideas

Silent Night, Away in a Manger, Hark the Herald Angels Sing, O Come All Ye Faithful, Jingle Bells, We Wish You a Merry Christmas, Deck the Halls, The Twelve Days of Christmas (split the verses between groups).

Food and drink

• Mince pies and stollen
• Toasted marshmallows and s’mores at the fire pit
• Sausage rolls or a pot of chilli for a longer evening

Tips

• Give children a bell or tambourine to join in.
• Collect for a local charity with a donations bucket.
• Hot drinks for kids should be warm, not hot.