As Thanksgiving approaches, it’s a great time to reflect on what we’re thankful for and kick off the season of giving and celebration. The holidays are upon us, and there’s no better time to bring your community together through fun and festive events that will create lasting memories and help everyone feel connected. Whether you’re in a condo, townhome, or single-family home, there are plenty of easy ways to celebrate as a neighborhood. Here are some ideas to help you plan events that will bring joy to your community this season!
Annual Golf Cart Parade and Potluck
In one of our managed HOA communities, residents celebrate the holidays with an annual Christmas golf cart parade. It’s a fun and festive way to unite the community—everyone decorates their golf carts with lights and holiday decorations to create a whimsical parade. Afterward, they all gather for a potluck and share their favorite holiday dishes, from casseroles to festive desserts.
If your community hasn’t done a golf cart parade yet, this could be the perfect time to start the tradition!
Holiday-Themed Movie Night
If you’re looking for something cozy and laid-back, a holiday movie night is a great way to get everyone together. Set up a viewing space in your community clubhouse (or anywhere that works) and make it feel like a special event. Serve up popcorn, hot cocoa, or mulled cider to get everyone in the holiday mood.
Pick a mix of family-friendly classics and holiday comedies so everyone has something to enjoy. It’s the perfect way to relax and bond with neighbors!
Holiday Decorating Competition
Who doesn’t love a little friendly competition? Organize a holiday decorating contest in your neighborhood! Whether it’s for homes or units, you can have fun categories like “Most Festive,” “Best Use of Lights,” or “Most Creative Design.” It’s a great way to get everyone excited about decorating and to add a little extra cheer to the neighborhood.
If you live in a condo or townhome, you could even get creative and organize a communal decorating effort for the common areas.
Cookie Exchange Party
A cookie exchange party is an easy yet fun event to host. Neighbors can bake their favorite holiday cookies and share them with others. It’s a great way to try new recipes, swap baking tips, and indulge in sweet treats. Plus, it’s a perfect way to get to know your neighbors better.
Add some extra fun by turning it into a friendly baking contest where everyone votes for the best cookies, or give prizes for the most creative designs!
Community Tree Lighting Ceremony
If your community has a common area, consider hosting a tree lighting ceremony to kick off the holiday season. Gather around, sing some carols, and enjoy hot cocoa as you light the tree together. It’s a magical way to bring everyone together and mark the start of the holidays.
A tree lighting ceremony is a simple yet beautiful tradition that will create lasting memories for everyone.
Community Thanksgiving Spirit: A Tradition of Giving and Togetherness
One example that truly captures the holiday spirit comes from my grandmother’s condo. As the court coordinator and a member of the recreation committee, she’s helping to organize their annual Thanksgiving dinner.
This dinner, held in the community clubhouse, brings everyone together in an atmosphere filled with warmth and the feeling of home. While the meal is offered for a fee, the community ensures that no one is left out. They deliver meals to homebound residents and also offer a drive-up option for those who prefer to take the meal home.
Her condo is always busy with activities that bring the community together, and this Thanksgiving tradition is just one example of how they ensure everyone feels included and supported. It’s a beautiful reminder that the holidays are about coming together and showing kindness to our neighbors.
The holidays are the perfect time to celebrate with your neighbors and build stronger connections. Whether you’re hosting a golf cart parade, movie night, or cookie exchange, these events will help spread holiday cheer and bring everyone closer.
Wishing everyone a very Happy Thanksgiving! This is the perfect time to reflect on what you’re grateful for, spend quality time with loved ones, and embrace the season of giving. Let’s bring warmth, joy, and connection to every corner of your neighborhood, making this holiday season bright, memorable, and full of community spirit!
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