If the dinner party invitation says cocktails start at 7 pm, that probably means dinner won't be served until Dave Letterman is delivering his monologue. As the evening wears on, even the wallpaper will start to look tasty. When you're hungry, you may give in to hors d'oeuvres before the meal or you may stuff yourself at dinner. Nibble on something healthy before you leave the house - a baked potato, large salad, or a bowl of hearty soup. This tactic always helps me curb the temptation to eat the mountain of cheese and crackers that are typical of holiday parties.
Cooks always bring out their best recipes for the holidays.
The only problem is that they expect you to eat all that food. In my family, cleaning your plate is the ONLY way to say you enjoyed the meal. Imitation in the sincerest form of flattery. Your host will be thrilled that you enjoyed the meal so much that you want to share it with others. If there's music at the party, then dance away.