The holiday season is a time for gathering, celebrating, and sharing memorable meals. Whether it’s a corporate holiday gala, a festive brunch, or a family dinner with all the trimmings, keeping food warm and ready to serve is essential. Behind every smooth service is one often-overlooked hero: chafing fuel.

At PICO Hospitality, we know that the right chafing fuel can make the difference between a flawless holiday spread and lukewarm dishes that lose their charm too soon. As events run longer and menus grow more elaborate during the festive season, choosing the right fuel becomes even more important. Below, we break down the main chafing fuel types, how to choose between them, and which options work best for different holiday hosting scenarios.

Why Fuel Choice Matters Even More During the Holidays

Holiday events are unique. They often run for several hours, involve multiple courses, and take place in decorated, enclosed spaces where ambiance matters. Choosing the right chafing fuel helps ensure:

• Consistent heat throughout the event to keep dishes at safe serving temperatures (above 140°F / 60°C).
• Extended burn times for longer services—so you’re not swapping canisters mid-dinner.
• Clean, low-odor performance that won’t interfere with festive aromas.
• A safer serving setup, especially around seasonal décor like garlands, linens, or centerpieces.

The Main Types of Chafing Fuel

Understanding how each fuel type performs helps you pick the best option for your specific holiday event.

1. Gel Fuel

• What It Is: A clean-burning ethanol or methanol gel in a small canister.
• Why It Works: Easy to light, low odor, and simple to set up.
• Burn Time: Typically 2 to 3 hours.
• Best For: Shorter events such as holiday brunches, cocktail receptions, or family-style buffets.

Holiday Example: For a Christmas morning brunch buffet with pastries, egg dishes, and warm sides, gel fuel is the perfect choice. It provides reliable heat for a couple of hours without overpowering the room with fumes.

2. Wick Fuel

• What It Is: A liquid fuel with a controllable wick for steady, extended heating.
• Why It Works: Delivers consistent heat over longer periods and stands up well to cooler environments.
• Burn Time: 4 to 6 hours, depending on the size of the canister.
• Best For: Large holiday banquets, gala dinners, and any event that runs well into the evening.

Holiday Example: For a corporate holiday party or New Year’s Eve dinner with multiple courses, wick fuel is the dependable workhorse. Its extended burn time means you can focus on service and celebration—not swapping out fuel mid-event.

Choosing the Right Fuel for Your Holiday Event

Holiday Hosting Tips from PICO

• Plan Burn Time Carefully
  Holiday events tend to run longer than expected—especially once speeches, gift exchanges, or dancing begin. Choose a fuel with a burn time that exceeds your planned service.
• Match Fuel to Menu
  Soups, sauces, and hot entrées require steady, strong heat (wick fuel), while baked goods or sides can stay warm with gel.
• Consider Indoor Comfort
  In enclosed winter venues, low-odor gel fuels help maintain a pleasant atmosphere without competing with festive scents.
• Prioritize Safety Around Décor
  Keep open flames away from holiday decorations, linens, or greenery. PICO’s spill-resistant canisters make setup safer and easier.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Which chafing fuel is best for a long holiday dinner?
  Wick fuels are ideal for events lasting four hours or more. They provide steady, extended heat for multi-course meals without needing mid-service replacement.
• Can I use gel fuel outdoors during winter events?
  While gel can work outdoors for short durations, wick fuel typically performs better in colder or breezy conditions.
• How early should I light the chafing fuel before service?
  Light the fuel about 10–15 minutes before guests arrive to allow the water in the pan to heat fully.
• What’s the safest way to extinguish chafing fuel after an event?
  Use the canister’s lid or a snuffer cap—never blow it out. Allow it to cool completely before disposal.
• How do I avoid running out of heat mid-event?
  Estimate the full event duration—including setup and lingering time—and select a fuel with a burn time that exceeds it. Wick fuel is generally best for longer holiday services.

The Bottom Line

This holiday season, let the warmth of your dishes match the warmth of your celebration. With the right chafing fuel—and PICO’s expertise—you can keep every plate perfect, every guest happy, and every moment memorable.

PICO Hospitality — keeping your holiday events warm, safe, and unforgettable.