Holiday gatherings are meant for laughter, good food, and making memories. But if you own a pool table, they can also be a time of quiet panic. One spilled drink, one child with a candy cane, or one overly enthusiastic guest using a cue like a broom can turn your prized table into a festive disaster zone. The last thing you want to think about when you’re hosting a Christmas party is how much it’s going to cost to repair the pool table after. The good news? You can protect your table and keep your status as the holiday host of the year.
Avoid pool table repair woes and retain your title of Best Holiday Party Host of All Time. Here’s how.
Make It Look Off-Limits…Without Saying It
People tend to follow visual cues. If you’re not planning to let guests play, keep the table naturally “closed.” Add a decorative table cover or a seasonal runner with a small holiday centerpiece on top. It sends a clear but friendly message: this isn’t a play station today. And because it looks intentional and festive, no one feels scolded.
Create a “Fun Zone” Elsewhere
Redirecting is better than restricting. Set up an alternative activity area—cards, board games, a small dartboard, or even a separate (and less fragile) gaming table. When guests have something else to enjoy, they’re far less likely to wander toward your pool table with curious hands… or eggnog.
If You Do Want the Table in Use, Prep It
Sometimes the best solution is just controlled access. If you’re comfortable letting guests play, take a few protective measures:
- Remove drinks from the room and provide a nearby drink table.
- Keep cues and balls accessible so no one improvises with household items.
- Use a short house rule list framed nearby—fun, lighthearted, and helpful (“No trick shots after two cups of punch!”).
Set Kid-Friendly Boundaries
Kids love pool tables, often for all the wrong reasons. If little ones are present, gently let parents know the table is for older players only. You can even set out a holiday-themed kids’ activity bin: crayons, puzzles, small toys—anything more appealing than climbing onto your felt.
Cover It Up the Smart Way
If in doubt, protect the table with a proper fitted cover. A high-quality cover blends in nicely, keeps dust and spills away, and saves you from constant worry. Out of sight, out of risk.
With a little planning, your pool table stays pristine, your guests stay entertained, and your holiday spirit stays bright—not Grinch-green.