It’s New Years Eve on a Friday and there’s no better time for a party with family in the hot tub! When preparing for your party, keep in mind a few tips to make the most out of your holidays spent with loved ones.
- Start with a clean hot tub. You wouldn’t want people coming over to an untidy house, and your hot tub is no different. Before the guests start arriving, make sure your water is looking clean and clear. Running a test on the water to check that all the chemicals are balanced and within range and cleaning your filters for the night ahead is a great way to stay on top of your water care. It’s also a good idea to give your hot tub cover a wipe down and the shell a quick clean if it’s looking in need of some sparkle, but remember to only use cleaning products meant for use with hot tubs - using normal household cleaning products can cause serious water issues. Have a look at our hot tub party guide for more tips on having guests in your hot tub.
Tip: Your hot tub water chemistry may fluctuate for a few days after having extra people in the spa. Keep a close on the water chemistry levels for a week or two after the party with frequent water testing to get your spa back to stable levels.
- Decorate! Just because the party is being held outdoors or in a spa room doesn’t mean you can’t liven up the party with some fun decorations, or carry the party inside to your indoor living space! Try adding some festive strip lights around the hot tub or the room. Bows or snowflakes can also be wonderful festive additions around the spa to liven up the mood, and don’t forget about adding in some classic poinsettias for that holiday spirit.
- Food and drinks are essential. Have some fun and be creative when planning your food and beverage options to really kick it up a notch.
- Drink ideas: egg nog, hot chocolate with marshmallows, cranberry juice with club soda, apple cider, or make a fun red punch using ginger ale, cranberries, pomegranates, and oranges. Try serving in an unbreakable glass for peace of mind and to save your good china!
- Food ideas: festive cookies decorated for the holidays, chocolates and candies such as red and green M&Ms or peppermints, nuts, or go for a classic with a meat and cheese charcuterie board.
Tip: If you’re planning to go in the hot tub, save the alcohol for later and put water in those glasses for now. Alcohol can dehydrate you very quickly, as can soaking in the hot tub, leading to a potentially dangerous combination.
- Music and entertainment. In your hot tub area, try using a waterproof speaker to play your favourite festive carols. If you’ve got a tv in the spa room or are planning to carry the party inside to your living space, put a series of festive holiday films on to entertain guests as they eat, drink and are merry!
- Get ready for guests. Now that the details are in place, it’s time to set up and make sure there’s enough tables and seating around for all of your guests. If you plan on having party-goers in the hot tub, make sure there’s extra chairs around the area so no one feels left out if there aren’t enough hot tub seats to have everybody in at once. You’ll also want to make sure to have extra towels on hand for everyone, and perhaps even slippers or robes available if it’s extra chilly out - if you’re still looking to give guests a gift, perhaps a beautifully wrapped spa robe and slipper set would be a perfect addition to the party.
Wishing you, your loved ones, and your party guests a very happy New Years from your friends at Pool and Hot Tub Depot!