Christmas meal for a crowd

[smocklets]

I am having about 20 people over for Christmas Eve, including 9 kids. We are all making things to share. I need a menu that is relatively inexpensive, and also non-dairy and preferably vegetarian. I think those are the only dietary restrictions. Doesn't have to be a big sit down meal, we are planning to just visit and eat all evening.

Any ideas?

[KaraBoo]

what about a huge pasta salad with lots of veggies? You can use a vinaigrette instead of mayo to make it cohesive. Lasagna with no cheese? the ubiquitous crudite platter? Lots of little dishes like brushetta, diff kinds of olives, pineapple chunks on toothpicks, bean dips (maybe make diff kinds with fava beans, white beans, black beans), panelle, big salad with lots of fruit and nuts and diff dressings on the side...

I'll come back when I have more time. I love planning parties! LOL

[columbusmomma]

How about several kinds of soups/stews, an assortment of breads, and a few different salads? All are also easy to serve and store. And you can't go wrong with a couple nice beverages! Punches, yuletide cheer, hot cider!!
I love parties and food::

[wife&mommy]

How about stuffed mushrooms or peppers? Deviled Eggs? Spinach Dip? Hummus? Different types of baked goods like breads and muffins (filling but cheap). Soup is good for an inexpensive main dish, maybe a couple of different kinds. Even nice sandwiches like maybe the mozzarella/basil/tomato would be awesome, and that's even Christmas colors.