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Need some unique Christmas party ideas for you and your friends? A Friendsmas lunch is always a classic, but who says it has to be a standard sit-down occasion? Make this foodie catch-up more memorable by adding in a creative experience—whether it’s a shared interest or you’re trying something new together, it’ll be that much more fun!
We’ve put together some delicious Friendsmas food ideas that can be paired perfectly with a creative activity so that you spend this year’s celebrations filling your tummies and warming your hearts.
Whether you’re blending teas to wash down breakfast, making your own fragrances to set the mood, or cooking up a storm to indulge in, these Friendsmas party ideas will have you wishing the day would last forever.
Let’s dive into this year's Friendsmas menu!
Besties breakfast
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, but don’t worry, it won’t be your standard cafe experience when you see what we’re pairing it with.
Breakfast options: Go with something fresh and nutritious like avo on toast and some ‘everything bagel seasoning’ to get that flavour hit. Or, if you have a bunch of sweet tooths in your friend group, whip out the pancake batter. For some Christmas cheer, add in some cinnamon sugar and top it all off with a healthy dose of maple syrup.
Pair your breakfast with: This tea blending workshop in Melbourne.
Maybe everyone’s had their standard coffee order, but after you’ve enjoyed a filling breakfast, you may want to create something light and personalised to enjoy afterwards. In this workshop, everyone will dive into the fascinating world of tea, learning not only about its history but also about how to make your own unique blends to keep.
Held at Crafternoon Studios' brand new workshop, class sizes are kept intimate and small, making it a cosy setting for everyone to relax and unwind—you can even organise a private class to make it extra personal.
If you want to enjoy a breakfast not made by you, check out Mavis the Grocer at Vere St, Abbotsford and enjoy a peaceful, playful Friendsmas catch-up before you head right around the corner to your tea blending workshop.
Appetisers
Easy appetisers: For something small and cooking-free, start with some marinated olives, hummus and chips.
Pair your appetisers with: Appetisers are usually small and cute, served on equally appealing serving ware. So, why not pair these snacks with a grazing bowl and plate pottery workshop in Perth? Bring your own nibbles and get moulding with clay as you and your friends get guidance from an experienced ceramic teacher. Everyone will hand-build one ceramic piece perfect for entertaining and everyday use.
“This was a really fun afternoon activity to relax with a friend. There was a range of skill levels, but most had never done it before, and we had a good laugh at all our attempts. The teacher was enthusiastic, and the systems in place were easy to follow. She was also very accommodating with people who had brought food and drink, putting out platters and wine glasses. Would definitely do another class here!” - Michelle A.
If you need to level up your work Christmas lunch, see these fun ideas!
Entree
Entrees are all about setting the tone of the rest of your meal, so you’ve got to make a great first impression.
Entree options: Go for some sweet and salty starters, like a fresh plate of burrata and roasted peaches drizzled with honey. Or, if you like your cheese a little richer, try a baked brie cob loaf!
Pair this treat for the senses with: As delicious as your entrees are, the environment has to be equally as inviting. That’s made simple when you and your friends try this home fragrance class in Brisbane. Connect over sweet, fresh scents as you all make your own candle, room spray and reed diffuser. You’ll get to pick from three classic scents, plus a few Christmasy options, too. Bring along your snacks and something to sip on and spend the day chatting as you make each other these personalised, homely Christmas presents for Friendsmas!
Main
For a Friendsmas food idea to top them all, get into the chef’s mindset for your main meal. It’s got to be filling, hearty and mouth-watering!
Main meal ideas: You could enjoy some classic roast pork on your fork, or grab your friends and pretend you’re enjoying an Italian summer as you cook up a delicious pasta feast. (An easy dish to serve plenty of people.)
You’ll all be able to help prepare lunch if you pair this main with: A pasta masterclass in Melbourne! (Arguably the home of the best pasta in Australia.) What’s better than making pasta together as if you’re on holiday in Sorrento? This class comes with lunch afterwards!
Be greeted with a fresh coffee to get everyone energised, then dive into the day as you learn to make pasta from scratch. To finish it off, raise your glasses of vino and cheers to a full, wholesome meal together. This is the kind of day out you and your friends will rave about for years—and with the skills you pick up, you can even recreate the vibes from home at your next gathering.
“Couldn’t have asked for a better experience. The teachers were lovely and a joy to chat with. Went home with full bellies, a bunch of goodies and great memory.” - Dan G.
Dessert
We love when it’s time for dessert, only because it means the meal's not over, and there’s still more time to spend with the people we love. These Friendsmas food ideas might be classic, but the pairing activity will make it unforgettable.
Dessert ideas: The Christmas go-to cookie: gingerbread people! Or, for an Aussie classic, you’ve got to go with a fresh Pavlova. If you want to get a little fancy with it, head to Queenscliff in Sydney and decorate your own cupcakes to take home and share.
But if you’re trying to fit in more crafting and less cooking, you could pair your sweet treats with a memento that’s just as charming (and it’ll last a lot longer than any baked goods!).
Pair your dessert with: Making personalised mementoes at this silver clay ring workshop in Sydney. You and your friends can design your very own organic rings made of silver clay and colourful gems, customising them enough to walk away with an item that perfectly reflects each of your personalities! Alternatively, you could make matching friendship rings. Whatever you decide, this activity is perfect for the group looking to make everlasting memories this Friendsmas.
“I really enjoyed this ring-making class. It was extremely relaxing and fun (and not as difficult as I thought!) The tutor was friendly and helped us step by step with the ring-making process. I recommend coming here for a girls' day out!” - Claire P.
The best part about this workshop is that it’s based in the heart of the Sydney CBD with plenty of dessert options around to check out. Right next door, you’ll find a little stall called Sweet Monster that has the best Thai desserts, like mango sticky rice or Wun Kati (coconut jelly).
So gather your favourite humans, pick an activity and get ready for a Friendsmas that’s high on laughs, big on flavour, and guaranteed to outshine any regular Secret Santa. All that's left to do after all this fun is to clear your schedule, wear some stretchy pants and let the festivities begin!
