It takes more than ordering food and putting up a few decorations to create the perfect Christmas party. The office Christmas party has transformed over the years across the UK from a simple gathering to a highly awaited festive celebration that brings together colleagues.
The Evolution of the Office ‘Christmas Do’
Christmas parties UK have changed dramatically over the years. Gone are the days when warm wine and a few paper chains would suffice. In today’s world, celebrations can be anything from themed extravaganzas at dedicated party venues to elegant hotel banquets.
A large proportion of UK companies buy their Christmas venue as early as January to guarantee a good date in December. Particularly fierce competition for the best spots can be found in London, Manchester and Edinburgh, where Friday and Saturday nights in mid-December become fully booked months in advance.
Popular Party Formats
Differences in workplace cultures mean a difference in preferences of party formats. Shared parties have seen a rise in popularity recently, particularly among smaller companies. These parties combine multiple businesses in large venues, creating an atmosphere that smaller standalone parties would struggle to achieve.
As an organisation grows, hire-exclusivity continues to remain the gold standard. Full venue takes over allows for complete customisation, ensuring bespoke theming, entertainment, and privacy from other guests.
For something different, replacing the traditional dinner and dance celebration with activity-based Christmas parties offers a new approach. And is not limited to, escape rooms, cocktail master classes, and even Christmas themed treasure hunts which help teams bond.
Regional trends
Christmas parties differ widely throughout the United Kingdom. London events tend to the more lavish and sophisticated side, as spare no expense Thames River cruises and landmark venues charge premium prices.
While some might consider Manchester’s Christmas parties a bit outside, they’re heavily inspired by the city’s industrial past. Converted warehouses and mills serve as atmospheric backdrops to the festivities. At the same time, parties in Edinburgh tend to mix Scottish traditions, with ceilidh dancing regularly included with contemporary entertainment.
Food and Drink
Traditional turkey dinner is a Christmas party classic, although more and more places are offering substitutes to accommodate dietary requirements. Alternatives to the restricted vegan menu are becoming standard at most venues.
The holiday parties now have a remote control, and employees don’t need to take a bus or arrive early to claim a good seat. We also created an employee preferences survey that catalogues all the feedback of how, when, and why employees at our company would prefer parties to be organised.
The alcohol options for holiday parties have also modernised. Unique drinks to parties and events are now offered. Along with standard beer and wine, special cocktails are made specifically for the associated gatherings, and special alcohol-free drinks and crafts have also emerged, eliminating the need to deprive non-alcohol drinkers from celebrating the festival in style.
Changing the Setting the Right Way
The highlight of holiday parties, however, are still the multifunctional photo booths. Adding casino tables cater to everyone from extroverted social butterflies to introverted wall flowers who interact in games with set rules. The list of things that can also be incorporated into parties are endless including live bands, party DJs, comedians, and more which can be the main attraction lasting long after New Year.
Timing is key, too. Mid-week parties may be more economical, but the prospect of work the following day tends to dampen enthusiasm. If weeknight celebrations are a must, think about allowing an eased start the next day for exhausted team members.
Christmas Parties have a needlessly extravagant perception, but when executed correctly they foster positive and boost company culture while fully representing an investment in staff morale. They help in creating shared memories, strengthen workplace bonds, and offer gratitude towards employees who work tirelessly through the year, something worth celebrating during the festive season.