Holi is all about fun, frolic and colour. The colourful festival brings people closer and reignites relationships. And what better way to celebrate this joyful festival than with your friends, family and loved ones?

Therefore, if you plan to play host this Holi, there is no need for stress; all you need is a little planning and a few easy tips to ensure your guests and you have a great time.

Guest List
The first and foremost thing to remember when throwing any party is the guest list. “While deciding the guest list, make sure all the guests know each other well, so you can be sure they are all having a good time as you relax yourself and enjoy the party,” suggests Shivani. Jitendra Sharma, an event planner adds, “Take into account the size of your party area. Expect 70 to 80 percent of invited guests to show up for a large event.”

Invites/Dress Code
“Spread the word. The best part about Holi is that you don’t have to dress up. However, do specify the dress code (if there is one),” says Sharma. Mira, a party enthusiast proposes, “You can make it mandatory for your guest to dress in white to add to the fun.”

Music
A Holi party is incomplete without music. Sharma advises, “You can organise some live music, a dance floor and DJ where guests can put in requests for their favourite songs to be played. However, if you’re planning a small party, you can compile a list of popular Bollywood Holi numbers like Rang Barse , Holi ke din , Do me a favour lets’s play Holi.” However, Shivani prefers “the traditional dholak and folk songs on Holi because it really brings in the desi flavour.”

Food
“Plan your menu a week in advance. Consider keeping the menu simple. For a day party, you can getaway with serving loads of finger foods and something like biryani with sauces and dips in the main course,” adds Sharma. “You can also put aside trays of sweets like burfis, which your guests could even carry back as a return present,” says homemaker Susmita.

Sweets/Bhaang
How can Holi be complete without sweets and bhaang ! “In sweets, have gujiya, malpua, laddoos . In drinks, you can consider serving thandai , milkshakes and lemonade as they act as good coolants. Hire a bartender if your group is larger than 30 and you’re serving cocktails, wine and beer. Ensure everyone gets to drink what they like,” suggests Sharma. Says Priyanka Rawlani, who hosted a party last year, “ Bhaang is a traditional drink and synonymous with Holi. We had bhaang ke pakora and bhaang laced thandai .”

Colours/Water
Shivani warns, “Holi is the festival of colours but make sure to use organic colours that don’t ruin the skin.” Adds Sharma, “Keep plates of dry colour on each table from where your guest can easily access them.” And don’t let your guests get away without getting wet!


In the end, just remember to create a festive and fun mood that carries through the party. Enjoy your Holi!