How to Host a Hocus Pocus Dinner Party
“It’s all just a bunch of hocus pocus,” you say? Well, if you’re reading this, you know that Hocus Pocus is not just any ordinary Halloween movie – it’s a spellbinding classic that has enchanted us for decades. And if you're like me, who grew up watching it with my two sisters, then you know just how iconic the Sanderson Sisters truly are. I, of course, identify with Mary and her vacuum-broom transportation, whereas my eldest sister is a Wini and my middle sister is Sarah! For years, I have identified and loved this movie, and I even loved the 2022 Hocus Pocus sequel!
Last Halloween, my friends and I were casting our own spells over a Sanderson Sisters Charcuterie Board that was truly unforgettable. It wasn’t just about eating, but the joy of piecing together every aspect of it that made it memorable. Hocus Pocus has always been a special movie that brings out the best memories with my friends and family, and now I want to help you all make those magical memories too by hosting your own Hocus Pocus Dinner Party this spooky season. Below you will find inspiration for a Hocus Pocus menu, party decor, and setting the perfect witchy vibe in your home. So, come, little children, let me take you away…
“I put a spell on you, and now you’re mine.”
Menu
Main Course
Stir up a cauldron of magic with a witchy slow cooker Butternut Squash and Pumpkin Chili served in Pumpkin Bowls. You’re already planning to go to a pumpkin patch this year, so you might as well grab a couple of extra pumpkins and hollow them out to use as serving bowls! This delightful concoction captures the essence of autumn and witchcraft, all in one dish!
Sides
Brewing beside our main dish, the Sanderson Sisters Charcuterie Board is the pièce de résistance! Every ingredient, from the Brie Wheels representing the Sanderson Sister heads, Bellavitano Merlot Cheese with its dark purple hue, Cheese Sticks for Sarah's blonde hair, to the Uncured Pepperoni – an absolute must, for it perfectly shapes Winifred's iconic hair – celebrates the sisters' personalities in the most delectable way. You can even do what I did and throw in some fresh berries and grapes for a touch of sweetness on the board! Check out my TikTok video to see how my Hocus Pocus charcuterie board turned out!
Drink
Concocting a drink fit for witches wasn't a challenge with delish’s Witches Brew Lemonade. A mysterious blend that will leave you enchanted with every sip. It’s also easy to make as a punch or add a dash of vodka or silver tequila to turn it into a delectable cocktail!
Dessert
Saving the most spellbinding for last: Clark Bars, an ode to Mary Sanderson’s “It's the chocolate-covered finger of a man named Clark!” But if you want to step things up a bit, I suggest a showstopper–BoOoOok Brownies. I’ve made these and they are just as delicious as they are adorable! Each brownie, meticulously designed, tells a tale of the Sanderson’s spells and witchcraft. Remember the eye that awakens with every spell? Don’t worry about making those yourself, you can just buy a pack of edible eyes! Here’s a recipe for Hocus Pocus Book Brownies that I used!
Set the Vibe
Transport your guests directly to the Sanderson's lair by using loads of candles to illuminate your space. Enhance the atmosphere by using dry ice in your witches brew lemonade for that mystical aura every witchy gathering needs. And it wouldn’t be Hocus Pocus without elements reminiscent of the film - witches' hats, black cats, and for the brave ones, perhaps a black flame candle (but remember not to light it if you’re a virgin!).
Gather your supplies, dust off your cauldron, and let the Hocus Pocus evening commence! Remember, though, it's all fun and games till someone lights the Black Flame Candle. Happy Spooky Season!