Holiday Parties That People Actually Remember
The best holiday parties have three things in common: a setting that feels special, food that's better than the everyday, and enough space for people to relax and enjoy each other's company. The setting does most of the work. A well-chosen venue with some festive touches creates an atmosphere that puts everyone in a celebratory mood before the first drink is poured.
Types of Holiday Parties
Company Holiday Party
The annual tradition that ranges from awkward to legendary depending on the planning. Keys to success: open bar (at least for the first hour), good food, music that's not too loud for conversation, and a venue that doesn't feel like the office.
Family Holiday Gathering
When the family has outgrown anyone's house or when the host wants to actually enjoy the party instead of cooking and cleaning. A venue with a kitchen or catering handles the food; the family handles the traditions.
Friends Holiday Party
Less formal, more fun. Cookie exchanges, white elephant gift swaps, ugly sweater contests. A venue gives you space that an apartment doesn't.
Cocktail Party
An elegant evening event with seasonal cocktails, appetizers, and conversation. 2 to 3 hours. The most sophisticated option.
Venue Options
- Restaurant private dining: Simple. The restaurant handles everything. You handle the guest list.
- Barn or rustic venue: A barn decorated for the holidays is magical. String lights, evergreen garlands, candles, and the natural warmth of wood create instant atmosphere.
- Historic venue: The architecture and character of a historic building elevates a holiday party without additional effort.
- Hotel ballroom: Traditional, reliable, and appropriate for large company parties.
The Bank Barn at The Museum at Hoppenville in Pennsburg, PA is stunning during the holiday season. Stone walls, exposed beams, and the warm atmosphere of a restored barn provide a setting that feels festive with minimal decoration. For smaller gatherings, The Cottage accommodates up to 50 guests.
Holiday Decor Ideas
- Evergreen garlands and wreaths: The most classic holiday decor. Drape garlands along tables, hang wreaths on doors, and cluster boughs as centerpieces.
- Candles: Lots of them. Pillar candles, tapers, and votives in red, gold, and green glass holders.
- Poinsettias: Group them at entrances and on tables. They're affordable and immediately read as holiday.
- String lights: Warm white lights add sparkle and warmth to any space.
- Ribbon and fabric: Velvet runners in burgundy or forest green add richness to tables.
- Natural elements: Pinecones, cranberries, cinnamon sticks, and dried orange slices add texture and fragrance.
Food and Drink
Cocktails
- Mulled wine station
- Spiked eggnog
- Peppermint martini
- Cranberry champagne punch
- Hot chocolate bar with liqueur options
Food
- Prime rib carving station
- Baked brie with cranberry compote
- Shrimp cocktail display
- Seasonal soups in shot glasses
- Cookie and dessert bar
Entertainment
- Live jazz trio or string quartet
- DJ with a mix of holiday classics and dance music
- Photo booth with holiday props
- White elephant or secret Santa gift exchange
- Ugly sweater contest with prizes
- Holiday trivia
Budget Ranges
- Casual (25 to 50 guests): $1,500 to $4,000
- Mid-range (50 to 100 guests): $4,000 to $10,000
- Premium (100 to 200 guests): $10,000 to $25,000
Book Your Holiday Party
Holiday party dates at popular venues fill fast. If you're planning a November or December event, start looking at venues by August or September. The Museum at Hoppenville in Pennsburg, PA offers a one-of-a-kind holiday setting. Contact us early to reserve your date.
