What exactly is an Open House Party?

The Hubbie and I want to have an XMAS party... like a cocktail party, finger foods and drinks.... and I have heard of people hosting 'Open House' parties and am wondering what they are...
Thanks!
KM

Re: What exactly is an Open House Party?

It is essentially another way of saying Housewarming Party-- it is supposed to allow people to come and go as tehy please-- we had one this past summer in our new house(although we moved in Dec 1st)
Hope that helps
Laura

Re: What exactly is an Open House Party?

I've always known an Open House party to be one that could be held at any time - not just connected to a house warming.

My family always used to have a Christmas Eve open house for friends and family.

Just as you suggested, it's cocktails, finger foods, etc. Hours are generally a range - 7:00 - 11:00 for example, and people can drop in for a few minutes or the whole evening, at whatever time they want.

It often means that it's not a firm guest list with RSVP's too - sometimes people are encouraged to bring a friend. (Not to be confused with the free-for-all open-house partys from High School when the parents were not home!)

Re: What exactly is an Open House Party?

thanks, guys! This sounds like a really good idea... I heard of people having them around XMAS time, and I like the idea of no RSVP's and keeping it casual.