Evite Predicts the Biggest Hosting Trends for 2026—and It’s All About Connection

Evite, an online platform for digital invitations, just released its Pregame Report for 2026, offering everything you need to be the best party host next year.

The report surveyed more than 5,000 party hosts (and guests) to get a sense of what the biggest party trends in 2026 will be. From sending out the perfect RSVPs to creative dinner party themes, here's what you need to know.

Old-Fashioned Party Planning

Evite was curious to see if modern hosts are interested in using AI tools to help them plan their parties. But creativity still reigns supreme in the hosting world for 2026. According to Evite, more hosts prefer to design their own schemes rather than rely on AI.

Pinterest and social media are the two most popular tools for help with party planning right now, and hosts will continue to search online platforms for party inspiration throughout 2026. Modern hosts say that they still love to write down their unparalleled party hosting plans (though most do so on their phone or computer, rather than a physical notepad). 

RSVP Etiquette, from Hosts to Guests

The biggest mistake hosts make starts with the RSVP. According to Evite, the pet peeve every party guest dreads is when an invite isn’t clear enough. In 2026, it’s time to refocus on the little details. The invitations you send aren’t just about the party date and time. Don’t forget to include a dress code, parking details, and key details about the venue so guests aren’t left with questions or arrive unprepared.

As a guest, the worst etiquette faux pas you might make is when you RSVP. According to Evite, 62% of surveyed hosts said they were frustrated by guests who RSVPed “yes” but didn’t show up. If you want to be the perfect party guest in 2026, it’s time to bring back classic party etiquette and commit to your RSVPs. 

Bespoke Themes Are All the Rage

In 2026, it’s time to bring bespoke themes to your next get-together. Cute and creative themes are a fun way to show off your personality, whether you want to host a cocktail-themed dinner party or a “Bride and Prejudice” book-inspired bridal shower. Bespoke themes are also the perfect excuse to throw a party any time of year. 

According to Evite, the top bespoke party themes of 2026 are the following:

1. Cafe at Home
2. Garden Party
3. Favorite Things Party
4. A ‘Tini Little Gathering
5. ’90s Nostalgia Night
6. Summerween

Let Them Eat Cake!

Cake is the favorite party treat of 2026, and it’s not just for birthdays. According to Evite, most hosts prefer to serve cake over pie and any other desserts. 

Given all the trending cake parties in 2025, it’s no surprise that this dessert’s popularity will still be going strong in 2026. Over the past year, we’ve seen everything from glorious cake clubs to the whimsical cake-baking trend. Even savory cakes were a hit on social media, if you’re looking for a unique spin on your next dinner party.

Intimate Gatherings

Crowded parties in 2026? No way. Hosts and guests alike are turning the tide in favor of small parties that give them a chance to connect more intimately with others. 

Birthdays, holiday parties, and watch parties are the three most popular types of parties for small get-togethers, according to Evite. Next year is the year to pare down your guest list and focus on creating close-knit, meaningful memories with your loved ones. Book clubs and pet-focused celebrations are two of the many intimate gathering themes on the rise.

Budget-Friendly Parties

Saving money with party planning is a key trend in 2026. Handmade party decorations and DIY planning are some favorite ways hosts throw budget-conscious parties; party food and decor made from scratch are wonderful ways to pour love into your next celebration.  

According to Evite, the average party budget is anywhere from $0 to $100—and this includes kids’ birthdays, bridal showers, and casual gatherings alike. As it turns out, holiday and dinner parties are occasions when hosts are willing to spend more money.