When you arrive at the party, acknowledge the occasion.  If it is a birthday party, wish the birthday girl a “Happy Birthday” and present her with your gift.  If it is a Christmas party, greet the host with a “Merry Christmas.”

There is usually food at parties.  All of our table manners and dining etiquette apply.

For more informal parties remember not to leave your drinks on wood furniture because it may leave a permanent ring.   Don’t “double dip” by returning a partially eaten cracker or carrot for more dip, exposing the dip to you germs.  Keep food on a plate, rather than walking around with food in your hands.  Take small amounts of food so that everyone has a chance to have some.

You are a guest in someone else’s home.  Clean up after yourself.  Take empty plates or cups to the sink, trash, or recycle bin.  Respect other people’s things by not touching or playing with them without permission.  If you get a game or another type of toy out, put it away before moving on to the next activity.  Push in your chair when you leave the table.  Offer to help the hostess clean up.

If an accident happens and something gets spilled or damaged and you cannot handle it by yourself, let the hostess know immediately and offer to fix the damage, if it is your fault.

Finally, remember to have fun.  Talk to many different people.  Get to know your friend’s friends.  Honor the person throwing the party.  Have a great time.