10 Tips: Make Celebrations Fun, Healthy, and Active

Eating healthy and being physically active can be a fun part of parties and events. Great gatherings are easy to do when tasty, healthy foods from all the food groups are offered in a fun, active environment. Above all, focus on enjoying friends and family.

1. Make healthy habits part of your celebrations 
   Food and beverages are a part of an event, but they do not have to be the center of the occasion. Focus on activities to get people moving and enjoy being together.
2. Make foods look festive 
   Add a few eye-catching fruits to a favorite dish or a new recipe. For older children, add a sprinkle of almonds or green onions to make the dish pop. Decorate foods with nuts or seeds or use new shapes for vegetables.
3. Offer thirst quenches that please 
   Make fun ice cubes from 100% juice or add slices of fruit to make water more exciting. Create a “float” by  adding a scoop of low-fat sorbet to seltzer water.
4. Savor the flavor 
   Take time to pay attention to the taste of each bite of food. Make small changes in your old recipes or try dishes from another culture to liven things up.
5. Use ChooseMyPlate.gov to include foods from the food groups for your party 
   Offer whole-grain crackers, serve a spicy bean dip and a veggie tray, make fruit kabobs, layer yogurt and fruit to create a sweet parfait. Use whole grains and veggies to make a savory, healthy salad.
6. Make moving part of every event 
   Being physically active makes everyone feel good. Dancing, moving, playing active games, wiggling, and giggling add fun to any gathering.
7. Try out some healthier recipes 
   Find ways to cut back on added sugars, salt, and saturated fat as you prepare your favorite recipes.
8. Keep it simple 
   Have others participate by contributing a healthy prepared dish, helping with the clean up, or keeping the kids active and moving.
9. Shop smart to eat smart 
   Save money by offering foods that fit your budget. Buy in-season produce when it costs less and tastes better. Plan in advance and buy foods on sale.
10. Be a cheerleader for healthy habits 
    It’s never too early for adults to set an example. Keep in mind that children follow what the adults around them do — even at parties.