The answers to the clues below will have something in common.

1. Small political group that has broken off from a larger one
2. Common condition on southern California freeways
3. Signal strength for iPhones
4. Fake coin makers' and boxers' event
5. Get together for soldiers of a certain rank

Answers:

1. Splinter party
2. Traffic jam
3. Cell reception
4. Slugfest*
5. Private affair - - - last words are social gatherings

*4. Last syllable

Credit:
LA Times Crossword
February 7, 2020
Andrew Linzer
SOCIAL GATHERINGS