‍Planning an office xmas party is a fantastic way to bring colleagues together and celebrate the festive season. It’s an opportunity to recognise the team’s hard work throughout the year, foster team bonding, and add a bit of festive cheer to the workplace. While organising such an event may seem daunting, especially if you want to make it stand out, it doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right approach, you can plan a party that will go down in corporate history! Here’s a guide to help you organise an unforgettable office Christmas party – and show you how HOMETAINMENT can make the whole process effortless.

• Why Host an Xmas Party at the Office
• When to Start Organising an Office Xmas Party?
• 6 Steps to Organise an Office Christmas Party
• Organise an Office Xmas Party with HOMETAINMENT

Why Host an Xmas Party at the Office

Organising the work Christmas party at the office can be a brilliant idea. While external venues might seem exciting, they come with challenges like last-minute cancellations, minimum spends, and hefty deposits.

An office-based party is convenient, budget-friendly, and allows everyone to unwind right after work. Transform the space with festive decorations, and your colleagues won't even recognise the usual 9-to-5 setting! The familiar environment creates a relaxed, cosy atmosphere without the pressure of a fancy venue. Plus, you have full control over the setup, making it feel personal and festive – perfect for bringing the holiday spirit into the workplace.

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When to Start Organising an Office Xmas Party?

86% of organisations will host a Christmas party and it’s never too early to start planning yours, especially for popular caterers, musicians, or entertainment, as they get booked up fast. Planning 6-8 weeks in advance is ideal for most work parties. This allows enough time to secure a date, book vendors, and send out invites. Starting early also lets you compare options to get the best deals on catering, entertainment, and decorations, avoiding last-minute stress. For larger events, aim to start in August or September, so everyone can mark their calendars and get excited for the festivities!

6 Steps to Organise an Office Christmas Party

1. Start with a Plan

A successful office Christmas party starts with careful planning, so begin by setting the basics in place: the date, budget, and guest list.

Date Selection: Pick a date that suits most of the team, using a poll if needed. Hosting during or right after work boosts attendance.

Budget Planning: Set a budget, including food, drinks, decorations, entertainment, and other costs. A clear budget helps shape the party’s style.

Guest List: Decide if it’s a small gathering or a company-wide event. Finalising the guest list early ensures smooth catering and logistics.

Tip: If you’re short on time, HOMETAINMENT can handle the planning, from catering to entertainment, making organising an office Christmas party stress-free!

2. Transform the Office

An office might not seem like the most glamorous venue, but with a bit of creativity, it can become a festive space perfect for celebrating. Choose a suitable area, like a large meeting room or communal space, and rearrange furniture to make room for mingling, a dance floor, or entertainment. Transform the atmosphere with Christmas trees, fairy lights, and wreaths. You can even create themed sections, like a cosy "winter lodge" corner or a "Santa’s Grotto" complete with presents for guests.

3. Plan the Food & Drinks

An office Christmas party needs great food and festive drinks. The menu depends on your event style, but here are popular options:

Buffet Style: Ideal for large gatherings, a buffet or food stations offer variety and cater to dietary needs. It also encourages mingling as guests help themselves.

Canapés & Grazing Boards: Perfect for a casual vibe, finger foods and grazing tables keep the party lively and add a stylish touch.

Cocktail or Drinks Station: Hire a bartender or mixologist to serve festive drinks like mulled wine or custom cocktails.

Tip: HOMETAINMENT’s professional chefs and bartenders can elevate your party, from customised menus to festive drinks stations, ensuring your food and drinks are sorted stress-free.

4. Organise the Entertainment

Entertainment can elevate an office Christmas party from ordinary to extraordinary.

Live Music or DJ: Set the mood with a live band or DJ playing festive tunes, creating a lively and energetic atmosphere.

Interactive Activities: Add fun experiences like a photo booth with festive props, a karaoke station, or a mixology class where guests can learn to make festive cocktails.

Themed Entertainment: Choose a theme, such as a 1920s festive bash or winter wonderland, and include entertainers like magicians, comedians, or dancers to bring it to life.

Tip: HOMETAINMENT can book entertainers that match your theme, from musicians to performers, and set up unique activities like a cocktail-making masterclass, ensuring your party is memorable and engaging.

5. Incorporate Team Building Activities

Christmas parties are perfect for boosting team spirit and team building. Including activities that promote interaction makes the event more enjoyable and memorable.

Games and Contests: Organise a Christmas quiz, gift-wrapping contest, or gingerbread house-building competition to break the ice and keep the energy up.

Secret Santa: Add a fun touch with a Secret Santa gift exchange. Set a budget for inclusivity, and provide extra gifts for any last-minute needs.

Workshops or Classes: Bring in interactive workshops, like wreath-making or cooking classes, for a unique festive activity.

Tip: HOMETAINMENT can arrange expert-led workshops and activities, from craft classes to team-building games, ensuring everything runs smoothly so everyone can focus on enjoying the festivities.

6. End with a Momento

Finish the party on a high with a small token of appreciation for your guests, whether that be a gift bag, company-branded products or perhaps something from the party like photos from a photobooth. Research shows that 45% of employers don’t give their staff gifts at Christmas, whilst a third aim to treat their teams to some sort of gift.

Organise an Office Xmas Party with HOMETAINMENT

For a stress-free experience, consider using HOMETAINMENT to handle the planning and organising of your office xmas party. We take care of everything – from arranging catering to booking entertainment and managing unique experiences. With HOMETAINMENT’s professional touch, you can host an office Christmas party that not only impresses but also leaves a lasting impression.

Contact HOMETAINMENT today to start organising a Christmas party that will be the talk of the office!