Hosting an election party can be exciting, but it also brings the challenge of creating the right atmosphere for your guests to enjoy the night. Whether you're concerned about managing a crowd, keeping everyone engaged, or just setting up the perfect viewing area, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed with so many details to consider.
At Custom Built, we understand the importance of getting your home ready for special events, especially when you want your space to shine.
We’ve helped countless families transform their homes into welcoming gathering spots, and we know what it takes to get your home party-ready. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps to create a comfortable, festive, and enjoyable environment for your election party—from seating arrangements to snacks, décor, and everything in between.
With these tips, you’ll be able to confidently host an election party that leaves everyone impressed and ensures a smooth, enjoyable evening for all:
- Create a Comfortable Viewing Space
- Set Up an Interactive Results Station
- Prepare Snacks and Drinks in Advance
- Decorate for the Occasion
- Manage the Flow of Traffic
- Prepare for the Unexpected
- Set the Mood With Lighting
- Entertainment During Commercial Breaks
- Keep the Conversation Civil
- Plan for a Smooth Exit
1. Create a Comfortable Viewing Space
The focus of an election night party is, of course, watching the results. Set up a comfortable and functional space that allows your guests to enjoy the event without feeling cramped. Whether it's in your living room or a dedicated entertainment space, make sure everyone has a good view of the screen. Arrange chairs, sofas, or even cushions to provide ample seating options.
Design Tip: Consider adding extra chairs or stools to make room for more guests. If possible, use multiple screens or projectors to ensure everyone has a clear view of the action.
2. Set Up an Interactive Results Station
While the TV screen may be the centerpiece, creating an interactive results station where guests can engage with the process is fun. A chalkboard or whiteboard can be used to track key races, or you could print out election maps for guests to mark as results come in. This helps build excitement and keeps everyone involved, even during slow moments.
Pro Tip: Incorporate a small prize for the person who guesses the most accurate election outcomes to keep things lively.
3. Prepare Snacks and Drinks in Advance
No party is complete without snacks and beverages. Election night can be long, so plan a variety of easy-to-grab, crowd-pleasing food options. Finger foods like chips, dips, sliders, and veggies work well, allowing guests to eat without missing key moments.
Don’t forget to keep the drinks flowing—set up a station with both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options so everyone has a choice.
Food Tip: Create themed food and drinks based on political parties or regions. For example, red and blue cupcakes or cocktails named after candidates could add a fun twist.
4. Decorate for the Occasion
Election night is patriotic, so consider adding red, white, and blue décor to set the mood. Simple touches like flag-themed napkins, balloons, or table runners can create a festive environment without going overboard. If you want to go all out, set up a photo booth with election-themed props so guests can take fun pictures to commemorate the evening.
Décor Tip: Keep decorations simple but festive to avoid overwhelming your space. Focus on a few statement pieces like a themed centerpiece or flag bunting.
5. Manage the Flow of Traffic
Depending on the size of your party, make sure your home’s layout allows for easy movement. Ensure that there’s a clear path from the food area to the seating and, if needed, designate a spot for guests to grab drinks or make their plates. If you have a large group, consider setting up additional snack or drink stations in different areas of the house.
Host Tip: Have a designated area for jackets and bags to avoid clutter, and make sure your entryway is well-lit for guests arriving and leaving throughout the night.
6. Prepare for the Unexpected
Election nights can be unpredictable, with results coming in at different times or extending into the next day. Prepare for this by having extra food, snacks, or drinks on hand in case the party lasts longer than anticipated. You might also want to offer guests the option to stay overnight if the results stretch into the early hours.
Prep Tip: Stock up on additional supplies like paper plates, napkins, and utensils to ensure you're prepared for unexpected needs.
7. Set the Mood With Lighting
Lighting plays a key role in setting the right atmosphere. If you’re hosting an election party late into the night, consider using ambient lighting to create a warm, welcoming environment. String lights, lamps, or candles can add a cozy feel, while dimmable overhead lights allow you to adjust the brightness as needed.
Lighting Tip: If you’re watching the results in a darker room, ensure enough light around the food and drink stations so guests can easily see what they’re grabbing.
8. Entertainment During Commercial Breaks
Election night coverage is exciting, but the commercial breaks can be long. Keep your guests entertained by offering games or conversation starters during these downtimes. You could play trivia related to past elections or have a bingo card with common phrases or moments from the news coverage.
Game Tip: Hand out small prizes for anyone who wins a game or correctly predicts an election outcome, like patriotic-themed party favors.
9. Keep the Conversation Civil
Election nights often lead to lively discussions, and it’s important to maintain a positive atmosphere. Set the tone early by encouraging respectful dialogue, even if guests have differing political views. This ensures the focus remains on the night's fun rather than any heated arguments.
Conversation Tip: Encourage guests to focus on the event and results, and remind everyone that the goal is to enjoy the night together.
10. Plan for a Smooth Exit
As the night winds down and election results are finalized, help your guests make a smooth exit by keeping your entryway clear and well-lit. Offer to call rides or help guests navigate their way home if the evening stretches into late hours. A farewell treat, like packaged snacks, is a nice touch to send guests home.
Exit Tip: Have some to-go containers ready so guests can take home any leftover food or drinks, avoiding waste and extending the party vibes.
Next Steps to Hosting Your Election Party
Preparing your home for an election party doesn’t have to be stressful. By following these simple tips, from arranging seating to creating the perfect viewing area, you can ensure a comfortable and enjoyable night for everyone.
With thoughtful planning and attention to detail, your home will be ready to host a lively and memorable gathering, no matter the election results. Whether arranging a cozy setting or providing a great food spread, you’ll create an environment that focuses on fun and community.
At Custom Built, we understand how important it is for your home to meet your needs, especially when entertaining guests. With 15+ years of experience helping families create spaces that work for them, we’re here to guide you through every step of the process.
Ready to make lasting improvements to your home’s layout or functionality for future events? Contact us at Custom Built to explore how we can help transform your space into the perfect gathering spot.
Now that you know more about how to prepare your home for an election party, let’s take a look at the best lighting options for your kitchen, interior design strategies for your sunroom, and deck décor ideas for year-round enjoyment:
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