Holiday seasons are typified by food, beverages, and joviality. However, the sheer intensity of endless preparation for countless feasts, cocktail parties, and celebrations can whittle down even the most buoyant spirit.

To reintroduce enjoyment into the festive period, we present a comprehensive handbook for getting the most out of your holiday fêtes - with minimal effort. Our guide ranges from top-rated drinking board games to expert party tips, snack suggestions from renowned chiefs such as Daniel Boulud and Stephanie Izard, with convenient equal-parts cocktails. These tips will undoubtedly make your next gathering both impressively easy and a boon to your holiday spirit.

Beverages can be the life of the party, though their cost and preparatory requirements might also cause some unease. While quenching all your guests' thirst is essential, you shouldn't feel the pressure of a substantial financial strain post the liquor store visit.

Hence, we've collected some expert advice that includes suggestions from a professional caterer and a cookbook author on buying the perfect amount of alcohol to serve your guests. We also have tips for large-batch cocktail preparation, and chief Stephanie Izard shares her quick cocktail snack tips that you can whip up instantly to pair with your beverages.

Although cocktails are crucial to any gathering, no one prefers to be behind the bar when they could be enjoying the party. Instead of stocking an array of liquors and scrambling for intricate recipes, stick to straightforward, equal-part cocktails that can be made beforehand.

We share four classic cocktails-globally admired-that are based on identical measurements and constitute few ingredients. Armed with basics-gin, vermouth, citrus juices, plus additions like Campari and maraschino liqueur-you can easily host an impressive cocktail party at home minus any hassle.

But remember, holiday festivities are invariably about rejoicing, which isn't confined to food and drinks only. Few quick hacks can garner long-lasting memories. We've spoken to professionals from the famous Miracle holiday cocktail popups for their insights on hosting visually engaging and interactive events. We've even curated a list of drinking board games to help set the mood and minimize small talk pressure. In addition, you'll find uncomplicated appetizer tips and recipes from culinary maestro, Daniel Boulud, and understand how a mere notebook can leave an indelible impression on your guests.