I think a cheese ball makes a party spread very festive. You make them ahead and only have to bring on the chips and crackers to get things going. I like this one. It has a bite to it with the jalapeno pepper.

JALAPENO CHEESE BALL
8 ounce pkg cream cheese,softened
8 ounce pkg sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup minced red onions
1 fresh jalapeno pepper, seeded, minced
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
3/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro or parsley

In medium bowl beat cream cheese until fluffy. Add shredded cheddar cheese and mayonnaise. Stir with large spoon until well combined. Add onion, jalapeno pepper, cumin and 1/4 cup chopped cilantro. Mix well. Shape into a ball. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill at least 1 hour. Roll in remaining chopped cilantro until evenly coated. Makes 16 servings of 2 tablespoons each.