Festive DIY Christmas Simmer Pot in a Jar Party Tray Idea

‘Tis the season to fill your home with the delightful scents of Christmas! If you’re looking for a budget-friendly and a creative way to make your space smell like a winter wonderland, I’ve got the perfect idea for you: a Christmas simmer pot in a jar party tray. It’s not only a treat for your senses but also a fantastic DIY activity for a cozy holiday gathering.

A couple of years ago, I had the idea to create a simmer pot in a jar gift. What’s a simmer pot? It’s a small saucepan on your stove filled with simmering water and aromatic ingredients like citrus, tree clippings, and spices. Simmering these ingredients on low heat is a natural and budget-friendly way to make your home smell incredible!

Placing the dried simmer pot ingredients in a jar with an instructions tag makes for a thoughtful, simple gift. Since these gifts are easy to put together, I thought it’d be fun to create a “simmer pot in a jar” party tray where all your guests can make their own simmer pot gift! That way, each person can place the ingredients they love in their jar and use it as Christmas stovetop potpourri in their own home, or give it away as a gift. Here’s how to make this fun DIY activity party platter!

Materials Needed:

• Large round tray (mine is this 16″ one from Canadian Tire)
• Dried orange slices
• Dried apple slices
• Dried cranberries
• Cinnamon sticks
• Fresh pine cedar, and/or spruce tree clippings
• Whole cloves
• Upcycled jam jars or mason jar
• Twine or thin festive ribbon
• Free printable gift tags and simmer pot instruction tags (click here to download them and print them on cardstock!)
• Small plate
• Spoons

Additional Optional Materials Ideas:

• Dried lemon slices
• Star anise
• Vanilla extract or Vanilla beans
• Bay leaves
• Rosemary sprigs

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Tray

Start by arranging the dried orange slices, dried apple slices, dried cranberries, cinnamon sticks, cedar and spruce tree clippings, and whole cloves on a large round tray. You can also use the optional additional ingredients on your tray. Get creative with the arrangement, making it visually appealing. Add some spoons so your guests can scoop out the ingredients.

2. Set Up the Upcycled Jam Jars

Place upcycled jam jars to the side of the tray. I love saving all of my Bon Maman jam jars for Christmas crafts because they are the perfect size and colour.

3. Add the Finishing Touches

Place twine or ribbon and free printable gift tags and simmer pot instruction tags next to the tray. This will help your guests add a personalized and festive touch to each simmer pot in a jar creation.

4. DIY Christmas Simmer Pot in a Jar Assembly Time

During your Christmas gathering, invite guests to create their own Christmas simmer pot in a jar. They can choose from the array of dried ingredients and add them to the jar. Encourage creativity and experimentation!

5. Seal the Aroma

Once the jar is filled, secure the lid tightly. Guests can then tie some twine around the jar for a decorative touch. Attach a gift tag and an instruction tag to complete the gift-ready look.

6. Spread the Holiday Cheer

Guests can either give their jarred Christmas potpourri as a thoughtful gift or keep it to enjoy in their own homes. The jar not only looks charming but also makes for a delightful aromatic experience.

7. Usage Instructions

To enjoy the festive fragrance, instruct guests to dump the jar’s contents into 4 cups of simmering water in a saucepan on the stove. The result? An instant holiday-scented haven that will make their homes feel warm and inviting.

Incorporate this DIY Christmas simmer pot in a jar party tray idea into your holiday festivities, and watch as the joy and aroma spread throughout your home. It’s a simple, cost-effective way to elevate your Christmas gatherings and create lasting memories. Happy simmering! 🎄✨