5 memorable potluck ideas for the coziest autumn ever
A potluck is truly the epitome of a chill, feel-good party. For the host, it’s an opportunity to plan a cozy gathering with their favorite people while getting a break from having to provide everything. For the guests, it’s their chance to share their tastes (AKA delicious sips and bites) with everyone and enjoy their offerings, along with good company.
While a simple, traditional potluck filled with various dishes is always a delight, taking inspo from fall 2024’s party trends and turning them into potlucks is, in our opinion, simply genius! Here’s everything you need to know about transforming these cozy viral autumn parties into the coolest potlucks of the season.
And to make planning easier for you, we've created Evite SignUp Sheets! Never make a Google Sheet again. 😘
The great bestie bake off
If you and your BFFs love baking and are just a tad competitive, this is the potluck party for you!
There are two ways to throw this party:
- Signature bakes: Have everyone bring ingredients—consider providing staples like flour, sugar, baking powder and eggs—to create their “signature bake” (preferably a cookie since they don’t take long to bake).
- Technical challenge: Choose a simple recipe, and ask guests to each bring one of the ingredients (but don’t tell them what the recipe is for!). They’ll find out what they’re making once they arrive at the party.
No matter which route you choose, the rest of the bake off is the same! Once all of your bakers arrive, tell them to start baking! Our tip: Stagger the prep so there’s enough counter space for everyone (and no one has to fight over the stand mixer) and people can bake in batches. Once everyone’s bakes are done, taste and review everyone’s treats!
How to throw
Decor + supplies
- Union Jack Bunting
- Scalloped Pastel Paper Plates
- Scalloped Pastel Napkins
- White and Gold Serving Trays
- Cooling Racks
Potluck list
- Ingredients for cookies or baked good of choice
- Optional drinks (tea and/or coffee are perfect!)
Pumpkin painting party
Artsy, DIY parties are all over TikTok and Pinterest right now, and pumpkin painting parties are undoubtedly THE fall crafting party to throw (especially paint ’n sips!). Hosting this party is simple: Tell everyone to BYOP (bring your own pumpkin) and an app or drink to share, and you provide the paint and brushes.
How to throw
Decor + supplies
Potluck list
- Pumpkins (everyone should bring their own)
- Sweet snacks like pumpkin bread, cider donuts & apple hand pies
- Savory snacks like charcuterie & seasoned popcorn
- Pizza
- Wine or other drinks
TJs + PJs
Is there a better combo than Trader Joe’s fall treats and cozy pajamas? Trader Joe’s autumnal offerings are iconic, so all you have to do is tell your guests to pick up something – ANYTHING – from there and wear their cute-enough-to-answer-the-door-in jammies, and you’re ready for a laid-back and delicious get-together.
How to throw
Decor + supplies
- Pink & Orange Plates, Napkins and Forks Set
- Pink Checkered Tablecloth with Fringe
- Orange & Pink Hanging Decorations
- Orange Rimmed Clear Cups
- Autumn-Themed Toothpicks
Potluck list
- Fall side dishes & apps you can easily heat up in the microwave or oven (like TJ’s butternut squash mac and cheese)
- Cider donuts & hand pies
- A variety of nuts + pumpkin seeds
- Charcuterie faves (cheese, cured meats, olives)
- Autumnal jams & spreads like pumpkin or fig butter
Flannels + fizz
Flannel-themed parties have been on the scene for a while, but this one comes with a refreshing twist: Champagne. (Or Prosecco or Cava if you’re more of a budget-conscious girlie.) The dress code: flannel. The aura? Sparkling. We personally recommend leaning into another major trend, bows, and providing plaid ribbon to your guests to tie around their wine glasses. Cheers to being extra cutesy!
How to throw
Decor + supplies
- Champagne Flutes
- Plaid Burlap Ribbon Rolls to tie around glasses
- Flannel Candle
- Fall Orange Plaid Plates, Napkins & Forks Set
- Cottagecore Macrame Table Runner
Potluck list
- Champagne, Cava, or Prosecco
- Charcuterie
- Cookies and/or macarons
- Fresh berries
- Smoked salmon
Spellbook club
We LOVE all things Halloween, so we’re absolutely spellbound by the concept of a book club with a spooky side. Simply gather your best witches, choose an on-theme book to read and then get your coven together to discuss. With some sweet treats, of course!
How to throw
Decor + supplies
Potluck list
Okay, you’ve got your fall potluck inspo and how-tos, so now it’s time to plan your fave! Organize your potluck signups with one of our easy and free SignUp Sheets to get started. Happy cozy potluck season!
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