The holiday season is the perfect time to celebrate your team’s hard work and success — and to remind everyone why your company culture shines. A thoughtfully planned celebration doesn’t just wrap up the year; it boosts morale, strengthens connections, and sets the tone for an even better year ahead.
Whether you’re hosting a cozy office party, a large tented event, or a festive dinner out, these holiday party planning tips will help you make it unforgettable.
Pick the Perfect Date and Time
December calendars fill up fast. For better attendance and lower costs, consider scheduling your event:
- Early December (before the mid-month rush)
- Midweek evenings for easier venue availability
- Early January for a “New Year Kickoff Celebration”
This flexibility gives your team a break from the holiday rush while keeping spirits high.
Choose the Right Venue
Your venue sets the tone for the whole event. Raleigh offers great options for every vibe and budget:
- Office space: Perfect for casual, in-house celebrations
- Restaurants or breweries: Relaxed and social (Check out Mulino Italian Kitchen, featured in the photo).
- Event halls: Ideal for large, formal gatherings
- Outdoor spaces with tents: Create a festive, heated winter wonderland
Don’t let the weather stop you! With heated tents, elegant lighting, and sidewalls from J&J Tent and Party Rentals, you can transform any outdoor area into a cozy, magical holiday venue.
Pick a Fun Theme and Engaging Activities
Themes make your event memorable — and give everyone a reason to dress up and join in the fun! Try one of these favorites:
- Winter Wonderland Gala
- Retro Holiday Party (’80s or ’90s Throwback)
- Masquerade Night
- Classic Red & Green Affair
- “Night Under the Lights” Outdoor Celebration
Add interactive touches like:
- Photo booths or 360 experiences (check out Triangle Twirl!)
- Team awards or raffles
- Karaoke battles or trivia games
- Secret Santa gift exchange
Create a Festive Atmosphere
Décor is where the magic happens. Bring your theme to life with:
- String lighting, chandeliers, or uplighting
- Branded signage or backdrops
- Seasonal greenery, garlands, or candles
The right combination of lighting and layout transforms a tented event into a warm, inviting celebration space.
Plan a Delicious Menu
Food brings people together — and the right menu can make your event stand out. Decide on your format:
- Plated dinner: Elegant and structured
- Buffet: Great for large groups
- Cocktail-style: Perfect for mingling
Don’t forget to include dietary-friendly options (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free) to ensure everyone enjoys the feast.
Keep the Energy Up with Entertainment
A great playlist or performer can take your event from fun to unforgettable. Options to consider:
- Live bands or DJs
- Live performances from Cirque de Vol Performs!
- Local comedians or guest speakers
- Team karaoke or dance competitions
- Raffle giveaways or surprise prizes
Plan Your Company Holiday Event with J&J Tent and Party Rentals
Planning a holiday event doesn’t have to be stressful — and you don’t have to do it alone. At J&J Tent and Party Rentals, we help companies in the greater Triangle area create unforgettable celebrations. Let’s make your 2025 holiday party one to remember!
Contact us at (919) 977-3691 to start planning today.
