The holiday season is fast approaching, and it’s time to start planning your Christmas party. Christmas is a time for family gatherings, office parties and meeting up with friends. If you’re planning a work Christmas party in London then check out our top tips below to help get you started.

1. Find the Perfect Venue Using Sharesy

Your venue sets the tone for the entire party, so it’s important to pick a space that fits the vibe you want. Here at Sharesy we simplify this process for you.  Here’s how to get the most out of Sharesy for your Christmas party:

• Browse Based on Date and Location: Looking for a Christmas venue in London or beyond, you can search on Sharesy based on your preferred dates, times and location.
• FIlter by Size and Price: Whether you’re planning a grand event or an intimate gathering, Sharesy lets you filter venues by guest capacity and pricing. Allowing you to keep your budget in check at all times.
• Compare Features and Amenities: Many venues have additional features that may appeal to your event needs. Check each venue’s page to find out what’s included and what additional items you can bring.
• Book Early: December is a peak season for events, so book as soon as possible to secure your top choice.

2. Themed Christmas Party Ideas

Adding a creative theme can make your party memorable and give people a reason to dress up and get into the holiday spirit. Here are some Christmas party ideas and themes that are trending for Christmas parties in 2024:

• Sustainable Christmas: Make eco-friendly choices by using biodegradable decor, renting reusable tableware, and opting for digital invitations. Consider choosing a venue with sustainable practices. By using Sharesy you are also supporting a local community venue.
• Retro Glam Night: Bring back the glamour of the 1920s or the glitz of the 80s with a themed dress code and décor. Think sequins, feathers, jazz or disco tunes, and cocktails in classic glassware.
• Après-Ski Chalet: Transform the venue into a cosy mountain lodge with faux fur throws, hot chocolate stations, and fireplace projections. This theme is ideal for creating a relaxed, warm atmosphere that still feels festive.
• Winter Wonderland: Celebrate Christmas with a magical theme. Use glacial blue lights and props to create a winter landscape. A snowflake projector is a simple yet effective way of adding to the ambiance and theme. 

3. Plan Activities to Keep Everyone Engaged

While mingling is part of the fun, having a few planned activities can help break the ice and keep the energy up. Here are some ideas that will bring everyone together:

• Holiday Karaoke Contest: This is always a hit! Book a venue with a sound system, or consider renting a karaoke machine for the night.
• Photo Booth or Digital Photo Op: Set up a photo booth with festive props or a green screen for custom holiday backgrounds. Digital versions let people easily share their snaps on social media.
• Interactive Games or Competitions: Consider trivia games, gingerbread-building contests, or even a prize raffle to keep people engaged throughout the night. A quiz is a great way to get everyone involved and entertained. You can organise this yourself or if your budget allows hiring someone to run the quiz for you.

4. Make Catering an Experience

Food is often the highlight of any party, so why not make it part of the entertainment? Here are some ideas for an interactive dining experience:

• Holiday Food Trucks: If your venue has an outdoor space, invite food trucks serving seasonal treats. Popular options include hot cocoa, festive cocktails, or a dessert truck.
• Live Cooking Stations: Have chefs prepare made-to-order appetisers or desserts right in front of guests for a fun, interactive element.
• DIY Dessert Bars: Set up a festive DIY hot chocolate, cupcake, or cookie decorating station where guests can customise their treats.

‍5. Don’t Forget the Festive Drinks

Create a signature holiday cocktail or set up a festive drinks menu to bring some seasonal cheer. Mulled wine, peppermint cocktails, and even non-alcoholic eggnog are fun options that add to the holiday vibe. And for an extra festive touch, consider hiring a bartender who can make holiday-themed drinks and add a little flair to the evening.

6. Decorate with Christmas in Mind

If you are not going down the themed event route. There are many ways to create a festive atmosphere, decorate your venue to make it feel festive. Here are some 2024 decor trends that work well for holiday parties:

• Natural Elements: Think greenery, pinecones, eucalyptus, and seasonal flowers. Pairing these elements with soft fairy lights creates a cosy, timeless look.
• Interactive Decor: Set up a Christmas tree where guests can place ornaments on a small tree.
• Fairy Light Walkway: fairy lights add a magical touch to any event and give a really festive feel! A line of fairy lights around entrances can create that magical winter feeling anywhere.
• Retro Decorations: Retro is back! Why not bring out the tinsel and retro decorations? They can add a fun vibe to your party.

7. Time Your Party for Maximum Attendance

Everyone has a packed calendar in December, so choosing the right day and time is key. Here are some top tips:

• Weeknight Events: Midweek events (Tuesdays, Wednesdays or Thursdays) are often easier for employees to attend, especially if weekends are reserved for family plans.
• After-Work Timing: Hosting the party right after the workday makes it convenient for people to attend without having to go home first. This is definitely much more time effective and ensures that it won't be a late one!
• Avoid Major Holiday Dates: Scheduling the event at least a week before Christmas Eve ensures more people can make it.
• Give plenty of notice. Send out the event date as early as you can. This way, your teams can mark it in their calendars well ahead of time.

Planning the office Christmas party can be great fun. By following these tips and using Sharesy to find a perfect Christmas party venue, you’ll set the stage for a brilliant celebration.

Check out our wonderful community venues here.