Christmas Party Trends

With competition for key dates and a workforce that’s more conscious, diverse, and experience-driven than ever, the corporate Christmas party trends have evolved dramatically over the past decade – accelerated by the impact of Covid and shaped by the expectations of a new generation of Gen Z employees. Balancing a variety of preferences and priorities is no small feat, which is why it’s never too early to start planning.

At Story Events, we’re constantly scouting what’s next across London’s events landscape to ensure our clients are always one step ahead. Whether you’re planning an end-of-year celebration or looking to impress your team with something unforgettable, here are some Christmas party trends to keep in mind.

Venues like Sixes, Electric Shuffle and F1 Arcade are leading the charge in activity-led experiences. These venues expertly elevate team building activities. With rapid expansions from brands such as new openings on the horizon for Clays in Soho and Roxy Ballroom in St May’s Axe, competitive socialising is exploding and it’s a must-consider format for groups wanting energy, interaction and an edge of friendly rivalry.

This also works in harmony with the increasing number of guests opting for sober celebrations. Competitive socialising allows everyone to get involved without compromising on people’s wellness choices.

Only 45% of network that we surveyed in partnership with Venue Search London* are planning a traditional seated dinner this year, a sign that there is appetite to switch up classic formats to something more exciting. Instead of placing guests at tables all night, brands are leaning into immersive themes that allow for movement, discovery, and surprise throughout the evening.

Think theatrical set design, roaming performances, and in-world F&B that are part of the experience whether it’s interactive food stations or curated menus tied to the theme. This approach creates energy and spontaneity, encouraging guests to explore and mingle with the wider team.

This year, we’re seeing a rise in creative, fully immersive themes that encourage guests to step into another world. Bridgerton inspired Regency balls are making their way into the Christmas calendar, complete with string quartets and costumed performers for a touch of period drama. Circus style celebrations are also proving popular. An energetic, nostalgic theme that’s easy to bring to life with stilt walkers, fairground games, carousel rides, and sweet treats like hot doughnuts and candy floss.

This festive period, The Lost Estate – Great Christmas Feast presents an immersive dinner/theatre adaptation of Charles Dickens world of “A Christmas Carol”, transporting your guests to a whole new world set in 1843. Guests will step through a secret entrance and be entranced by the live musicians, theatrical story telling and a themed three course feast! 

Alternatively, Evolution in Battersea is being transformed into a New York dream, giving your guests a taste of the Big Apple, with street scenes featuring everything from Subway stations and graffiti art, to the glamour of Broadway and Central Park.

If this type of event resonates with your audience and you have your own big ideas, consider working with our team to get creative and deliver your very own immersive experience. 

*Read the report here

For smaller teams looking to make a big impact, shared Christmas parties are having a major moment. These events offer the chance to be part of bigger celebrations, often at iconic, large-scale venues that might be out of reach for smaller budgets. These events strike the perfect balance between scale, style and ease.

Take Smart Parties’ shared events or at 60 Great Queen Street and Magazine London or Ultimate Experience’s Christmas parties at the HAC as an example. They combine world-class production, entertainment and catering –  and the chance to treat your team to something a little bit different. Plus, they offer a unique opportunity to network and connect with other businesses.

When it comes to entertainment, many clients are moving beyond the traditional DJs and live bands set up, instead opting for more interactive, high-impact moments that create lasting memories. The focus is on engaging guests throughout the evening and delivering those all important ‘wow’ moments.

Some standout entertainment options that we love include;

• Live illustration and digital caricatures, offering guests a personalised keepsake and a fun conversation starter.
• Immersive walkabout characters, from Gatsby-style dancers to flash mobs and fully costumed themed performers, these roaming acts bring energy and surprise to every corner of your event. 
• Interactive dessert stations, think theatrical sweet experiences like nitrogen ice cream, edible mist, or build your own festive treats.
• Themed photobooths from glossy magazine covers, to set builds and dynamic video or GIF booths, these offer a branded, highly shareable moment for guests. 

Incorporating this level of entertainment not only enhances the atmosphere but gives your event a memorable edge that guests will be talking about long after the last mince pie.

At Story, we collaborate with a wide network of creative entertainment partners to match your theme, brand and audience. Whether you’re looking for subtle elegance or full-scale spectacle, we’ll help you find the perfect fit.

From creative concepting to seamless delivery, our team at Story Events specialises in end-to-end event management. If you’re thinking about your Christmas party plans, get in touch – we’d love to help bring your brief to life.