16 Corporate Christmas Party Entertainment Ideas

6 Corporate Christmas Party Entertainment Ideas to Get Started

Plan Well in Advance—Start in the Summer!
It’s never too early to start planning your event. Picking a date early on makes it easier for your guests to attend. Aim to plan three to six months ahead to ensure availability at hotels, banquet centers, caterers, and entertainers (like myself). It’s always surprising when someone calls just 10 days before an event in a panic. Try to avoid the last-minute scramble and plan ahead.
Choose an Exciting Venue
While hotels and banquet facilities are common choices, don’t be afraid to think outside the box. Consider museums, wineries, country clubs, or even historic homes. Smaller downtown restaurants can also provide a unique setting. An interesting venue can significantly enhance your event.
Focus on the Food
Many venues offer catering packages, but be sure to check what’s included. Are soft drinks like soda, tea, and coffee part of the package, or will there be an extra charge? Consider dietary needs such as vegetarian or vegan options. Ensure the venue can accommodate any special dietary requirements so everyone can enjoy the event.
Gather Feedback from Last Year’s Event
To meet your guests’ expectations, find out what they liked and didn’t like about last year’s party. Ask about the food, venue, and entertainment. Understanding their preferences can help you avoid repeating past mistakes and improve this year’s event.
Set a Budget
Consider all expenses, including food, beverages, venue costs, and recognition awards. Don’t forget about rentals and a sound system. Entertainment is also a key component. Keep in mind that the most expensive or cheapest option isn’t always the best. Get a general idea of your budget now, and you can adjust later.

6. Pick a Theme
If a theme suits your event, go all out! Consider fun themes like “The Holidays in Hawaii” or “Awards as Big as Texas,” or base it on concepts like loyalty, teamwork, or customer service. Think about props and décor that match your theme, and then plan the food accordingly. One of my favorite themes is “A Night of Magic and Mystery”—it’s always a hit!

I hope you're taking a moment to relax because the holiday season will be here before you know it! You’ll definitely want to start planning your Corporate Christmas Party. The sooner you get started, the better.

Organizing a successful company holiday party can be quite challenging and stressful. There are so many details to manage, and it’s easy to overlook something crucial. Remember, the success of the event is on your shoulders—no pressure! But seriously, everyone is counting on you. 🙂

From my years of experience performing at and attending corporate events, I’ve seen many stressed-out event planners. I hope these ideas help you keep your sanity. Bookmark this guide for future reference and feel free to share it with anyone else who’s planning an event. I hope it proves helpful and eases some of your stress.

Let’s dive in!

5 Simple Corporate Christmas Party Entertainment Ideas

7. Name Tags Are Key
Name tags are a simple but often overlooked idea. They can ease the pressure of remembering names and help everyone relax. You could have attendees write their names and a fun fact, like their first or dream car, favorite food, or vacation destination.

8. Consider the Traffic Flow
Place the welcome table just outside the door and position the bar or soft drink station away from the entrance to avoid bottlenecks. If you have a speaker or entertainment, set it up against a long wall, not at the end of the room. Ensure the entrance is opposite the stage to avoid interruptions.

9. Kick Off with Immediate Entertainment
To avoid a lull, have some entertainment ready as guests arrive. A mystery party guest performing sleight of hand can be a great icebreaker during the cocktail hour. It’s a fun way to engage guests and get the conversation flowing.

10. Use a Seating Chart
A seating chart can alleviate the stress of finding seats and help you control group dynamics. Arrange seating by department, work group, or name to facilitate interactions and cooperation.

11. Choose Quality Entertainment
The right entertainment can elevate your event. Consider a band or DJ for a younger crowd, but keep in mind that loud music may not suit everyone. A combination of strolling sleight of hand before dinner and a comedy magic performance after can be effective. Ensure the entertainment is hassle-free to avoid adding to your workload.

5 Quick Tips for the Night of Your Company Holiday Party

12. Arrive Early
Arrive at least 30 minutes to an hour before the event starts to avoid a last-minute rush.

13. Be Easily Accessible
Check in with the banquet manager so they can find you if needed.

14. Charge Your Cell Phone
Ensure your phone is fully charged for any emergencies or communication.

15. Act Like the Host
Mix and mingle with guests, introduce people, and enjoy the event yourself. You’ve done the hard work—now it’s time to enjoy it.

16. Create a HASHTAG
Set up a hashtag for your event to encourage guests to share their photos and create a lasting buzz for next year.

There you have it—16 corporate Christmas party entertainment ideas. Whether you’re a seasoned planner or new to organizing events, I hope these tips help make your next party a success. If you’re looking for someone to impress your clients at your event, feel free to reach out to learn more about how I can assist with your next client appreciation event.