With the holiday season officially upon us, we couldn’t help but dream up who’d we ideally want at our holiday parties and dinners. And with that in mind, who better than some of our favorite anime characters. We love you fam and friends, but sometimes imagining anime characters sat around the table is a fun way to get through the holidays. 

Of course, not just any character will get an invite — we only have so many seats free at the table. We thoughtfully considered who would bring the best dishes and desserts, entertainment, and a dose of playful drama. Because what’s a holiday party without a little bit of drama?

Here are the anime characters who would make it on the invitee list to our next holiday party.

Naruto

Naruto is a must-invite character. Whether you love him or hate him, he sure knows how to talk with any and everyone thanks to his boisterous personality. This fox-boy has a heart of gold and will definitely light up any room he enters. Just don’t mention he who must not be named. Sasuke. It’s Sasuke.   

Not only will he lighten the mood, but he also will bring a mountain of Ichiraku ramen. And nothing sounds better than a hot, savory bowl of Konoha’s famous ramen.

Tohru and the Soma Family

When it comes to family drama the Soma family of Fruits Basket has plenty to go around, but that doesn’t mean they can’t come to the party. We can count on the zodiac members to bring plenty of interesting and heated conversations, but we love them for it. There’s no promise that some fighting won’t happen especially between Yuki, the rat, and Kyo, the cat. But of course, Tohru will be there to help smooth things over. 

Plus, I really want to have an onigiri-making party with the Somas. Will it require a lot of rice? Yes, but it’s the perfect family bonding activity if you ask us. 

Inuzuka-san, Tsumugi, and Kotori

They may be novice cooks but Inuzuka-san and Kotori from Sweetness & Lightning have brushed up their kitchen skills with each passing day and would make the perfect duo to cook up some delicious holiday dishes. Of course, sweet Tsumugi will be there to supervise! 

From miso soup to gyoza to doughnuts, there’s not much these three can’t figure out how to make.

Retsuko

Everyone’s favorite raging red panda deserves a special seat at our table. Retsuko may look cute and cuddly on the outside, but her angst can get the best of her. Hey, we totally get it! The holidays can make for some stressful moments. As long as she could bring a karaoke set, Retsuko would probably happily join. 

After things settle, the real Retsuko will make an appearance and sing metal music to her heart’s content. Maybe she’ll even pass us the mic to give screamo karaoke a try, which sounds like a pastime I’d like to implement in my own gatherings.

Miyamura and Hori

If you don’t feel like baking your own desserts, anime’s most lovable couple from Horimiya, Miyamura and Hori has got you covered. Luckily Miyamura’s parents own a bakery famous for its cakes. And honestly, there is no better way to end the evening than with a sweet slice of cake surrounded by your favorite anime characters. 

What do you think of our list of invitees? If you could surround yourself with anime characters at your next holiday party, who has a seat reserved at your table?