Boxing day dilemma

[Skippii]

We've had a recent bereavement and it seems to have left me unable to make decisions. So on boxing Day we have two people arriving after 6pm, two who may arrive anytime (or not) and another who also may pop in/stay for hours. All are very welcome, but what do I feed them?

I'm worried we'll be sitting down to dinner when three folk arrive. Or waiting for a take out and the numbers double. Also I don't really want to cook.

They are all sympathetic of the situation so some wonky hosting will be fine.

Any ideas?

I'd do something like a chilli that people can just grab a bowl of whenever they feel like it and leave some nice crusty bread out with it. It's minimum effort, just bung in slow cooker or crock pot.
Also sympathies for your bereavement x

Offer sandwiches and snack things

Buffet, cold meat, salads etc.

Stew or something people can just grab when they're ready. The only pain in the butt is the prep. But then once it's on zero effort.

Nice soup with French bread and butter, a pasta dish or chili, fruit and cheese board.

I'd do a buffet.

Thanks for the ideas.