If there’s an RSVP date, respond on time. And if you’re invited without a guest, respect that, says Elena Brouwer, director of the International Etiquette Centre. That also applies if you have kids – don’t assume it’s okay to bring them to an adults-only affair.

“When you start exchanging hugs and kisses or touching food trays, you’re putting your friends and family at risk of getting sick during the holidays as well,” says Gottsman. If you’re visibly sick, it might be best to graciously bow out.

It’s hard to estimate traffic and travel times, but do your best to arrive at the start of the party or soon after, not before, says Brett Galley, director of special events at Hollywood Pop, a party planning company. Walking in super early can cause your host to feel rushed.

(Read more: How To Put Together A Fuss-Free Christmas Party)

You should never show up empty-handed, but avoid bringing something that will create more work for your host, says Galley. Choose a dish or dessert that’s ready to serve, or go with a hostess gift.

It’s impolite to start wandering the premises on your own. “If you need a restroom, inquire before traipsing through their home on a mission,” says Sharon Schweitzer, international etiquette expert and founder of Protocol & Etiquette Worldwide. And if the host doesn’t indicate that the entire home is open, then consider upstairs or downstairs off limits.

Even if the host is your BFF, resist the urge to cling, says Gottsman. “Don’t monopolise the host’s time. If there are a large amount of guests, allow him or her to engage with everyone.”

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Be mindful about table manners, especially for formal affairs. Don’t nibble off someone else’s plate or graze on the buffet line, says Gottsman. “Be cognisant of the type of party you’re attending,” she says.

If your host encourages you to take leftovers home at the end of the evening, by all means, pack up a small sampling. What’s not okay? Showing up with your own containers, or taking back what’s left of the wine you brought – it happens more often than you’d think!

Holiday parties are for mingling and speaking with those you know and new people, says Brouwer. “Texting or answering your cell phone in front of others is rude.”

(Read more: 7 Reasons To Watch How Much Alcohol You Drink This Christmas)

Making negative comments about the food, décor, music selection, or other guests is hardly in keeping with the holiday spirit. If you don’t have something nice to say, well, you know the rest…

If you see your host is getting overwhelmed or isn’t spending enough time with guests, offer to lend a helping hand, says Gottsman, especially if it’s a more intimate gathering.

Be conscious about the photos and comments you post on social media about the gathering, warns Brouwer. You don’t want to inadvertently offend the host, or post a photo that is unflattering to another guest.

(Read more: 20 Unusual Foods To Order For Your Next Christmas Party)

Especially in our current climate, conversations can quickly escalate and get heated, making for an awkward situation for all. Try to keep holiday party conversations lighthearted and positive.

Always greet the host or hostess at the beginning of the event, and say thank you at the end, says Schweitzer. “It’s easy to find them, say hello, and express your gratitude for the invitation. When you leave, spend 2 to 3 minutes to share a sincere thought about how much you enjoyed the cuisine, music, company, or décor,” she says.

(Text by Dawn Papandrea, Woman’s Day, bauersyndication.com.au)