play host to
Entertain at home
To play host to is to receive and accommodate guests or visitors, whether literally or figuratively.
A city plays host to the Olympics.
A conference center plays host to annual meetings.
The phrase emphasizes the active role of hosting—providing the venue, facilities, or welcome rather than merely being present: The restaurant has played host to countless celebrity diners.
- entertainAmuse or host
- throw a partyOrganize a social gathering
- have overReceive as guests
- regaleEntertain sumptuously
- accommodateProvide for or adjust
treat · guest of honor · cater · hospitality · wine and dine · roll out the red carpet · sponsor · welcome · open doors · curate · receive · house guests · lodge · manage · shelter · inaugurate · organize · serve