It’s that time of year again—Christmas is just around the corner. Even though it seems early, now is the best time to book your venue for the work Christmas party. Finding the perfect venue and organising the event can feel like a lot of planning but we are here to help.

We are going to show you some of our favourite venues that are perfect. So if you are looking for a Christmas venue near you we can help! In this blog, we will talk you through our top tips to organising your office Christmas party and share some of our favourites.

1. Choose the Right Type of Venue

When selecting a venue, think about the atmosphere you want to create. Are you aiming for a cosy, intimate gathering or something bigger and more glitzy? Here are a few popular Christmas party ideas:

• Unique Experience-Based Venues: Looking for something beyond the typical dinner and dancing? Hosting your office party at a pottery studio or booking a cookery class can add a fun, hands-on element to your event. These activities encourage teamwork and creativity while offering an interactive experience that everyone will remember. After the activity, you can follow up with a meal at a nearby restaurant or cater food at the same venue.
• Traditional Venues: If you prefer a classic Christmas party, you can never go wrong with hiring a function room. At Sharesy we have hundreds of community spaces to choose from.

2. Set a Budget and Stick to It

Your budget will play a big role in selecting your venue and activities. Here are some tips to maximise your funds:

• Book early! Popular venues fill up quickly around Christmas time, so the earlier you book, the more options you’ll have. Early bookings can also save you money.
• Use a local, community Space. By staying local and using a community space, you can find venues that fit your budget. You will also support a local business!
• Negotiate packages. Many venues offer discounts for corporate events, especially if you’re organising catering and activities through them. Ask for a corporate package deal to cut down on costs.
• DIY décor. If you’re on a tight budget, consider a venue that allows you to bring your own decorations. This can be a great way to get creative with holiday-themed décor while saving on decoration costs.

3. Decide on Activities

The success of your Christmas party often hinges on the activities you organise. Whether your team prefers something energetic or more laid-back, there’s an option for everyone:

• Pottery Class: This is a relaxed, creative activity where your colleagues can bond over creating something handmade. Pottery studios often have space for food and drinks afterward, making it a unique and enjoyable venue for small to medium-sized teams.
• Cookery Class: If your team loves food, a cookery class could be the perfect choice. You can choose between mastering traditional Christmas dishes, learning to make exotic cuisine, or even working together in teams to prepare a holiday feast. Many cookery schools have private dining areas where you can sit down and enjoy the meal after the class.
• Entertainment Packages: If you’re going for a more traditional Christmas party, don’t forget to plan the entertainment. Consider hiring a DJ or live band to get people dancing, or opt for karaoke, comedians, or photo booths to keep the party lively. If you want to keep it low key, you could arrange a Christmas quiz and arrange your own playlist to use on the night.

4. Plan the Menu

Food is one of the most important elements of any Christmas party, so make sure to choose a menu that will appeal to a wide range of tastes. Here are some ideas:

• Seasonal Buffets: A buffet filled with seasonal delights such as roast turkey, Christmas puddings, and mulled wine will keep everyone in the festive spirit. It’s also a great way to cater to large groups.
• Sit Down Dinners: If your venue offers a sit-down meal, think about adding some Christmas Crackers or other festive elements to tie your event together.
• Dietary Needs: Make sure to check for any dietary restrictions within your team. Most venues are used to catering for vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets, so communicate these needs in advance.
  

5. Set the Date and Send Invites Early

December is a busy time for everyone, so setting your party date early ensures the best attendance. Try to:

• Send invites at least six weeks in advance. This gives everyone time to block off their calendars and make arrangements.
• Consider a mid-week party if your team’s schedule allows it. Many venues offer cheaper rates for Monday to Thursday bookings, and it can be easier to find availability.
  

Check out these amazing venues perfect for a Christmas Party

Fitzrovia Community Centre, Equiano Room Hire

St Peter de Beauvoir Town, The Hall Hire

Rosslyn Park FC Ltd, Ripley Bar Hire

Dharma Centre, Main Hall Hire

The Engine Room, Main Hall Hire

Ona Studio, Event Space Hire

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Planning the perfect work Christmas party is all about creating an enjoyable, stress-free experience for your team. With these tips and great venues we hope that planning will be a bit easier for you this year. Looking for a venue then please get in touch with our team and they can help you find the perfect festive venue for your team.