A housewarming party is a great idea to welcome new neighbors as well as show off your new digs to friends and family. There no need to wait until all the boxes are put away-everyone understands how busy moving is. I think informal is the way to go for housewarming parties. Save the formal black tie events until you're more settled in!

Throw an "under construction" theme complete with yellow hard hats and yellow caution tape.

Give out inflatable hammers and goggles as party favors and door prizes.

Here are a few activity ideas for your housewarming party:

• Dedication ceremony. Plan an official ribbon cutting for your new home, complete with well-wishers.

• Hourly house tours to show the features of your new home.

• Extreme makeover. Get the group to plan how to rearrange or decorate the room based on the host's unique tastes.

• Have a painting party. Get a large group and choose one room to paint. Great for good friends who wouldn't be put out by being put to work! Make sure you have plenty of pizza and beer on hand.

• What were they thinking? The host/hostess chooses are room that she just hates- you know, the one with orange shag carpet and disco ball. The guests can make a game out of guessing the former owner's ages, occupations, and interests. A bit cynical, but great fun!

• If you've made lots of changes or renovations, be sure to include lots of before and after pictures for your tours.

• Kid friendly. Any housewarming party can cater to kids by having a separate area for videos and crafts.

Happy housewarming!