Small talk at social gatherings.What to say apart from 'Did you a good Christmas?'

[ChristmasTimeName]

Just that really. Whilst not totally lacking in social skills, I'd like a few ideas about what to say to people I don't know well at social gatherings over the next few days.

Where do you live, have you been there long?

Do you have any hobbies/favourite past times?

Favourite TV programme/film/book?

ask about new year plans, holiday plans

Have you been busy over Christmas?
Are you off work for a few days?
(Assuming not working isn't a touchy subject)

"Did you get much time off over Christmas?" - or 'time to yourself' if you're not sure they work out of the house. Most people are happy to talk about their work, or the things they've been busy with in the run-up to Christmas.

"How's the family keeping?" Most people have some family they're happy to talk about, or they'll tell you why they aren't in touch any more...

"So, do you know John from work or..." - they can tell you they're a neighbour, or in the same squash club, or whatever.

And, the trick is, try to actually hear the answer instead of worrying about what to say next, as that will often get you onto some track that you can chat about. If you have something in common with what they said, you can talk about that. If you know zero about it, ask them about it.

Christmas Day - what did you do
Family
Work/holidays
Weather
How do you know hosts

These topics should keep you going until a real topic comes up. Weather is actually the best because everyone has a story about a time they got stuck somewhere etc. it's small talk it doesn't have to be deep and meaningful and they should do half the work in the conversation.

Dont insult anyone.
Dont be rude.
And don't be too polite.

Dont be afraid to express your opinion long as its not insulting anyone.