December is the busiest month of the year for function venues and entertainers. Friday and Saturday nights in the first three weeks go fastest. If you're organising the work Christmas party, this timeline keeps you ahead.
June to August: set the basics
- Agree the budget and who signs it off.
- Pick a format: private party, a shared party night at a hotel, or a daytime lunch.
- Shortlist dates. Weeknights in early December are often easier to secure than Fridays.
- Survey staff briefly: dinner and disco, a themed night, or something different like a casino night?
August to September: book the big things
- Book the venue. Check its rules on live music, finish time and sound levels.
- Book the entertainment. Popular December acts are often booked by early autumn. Party bands like Black Lace, comedians like Billy Pearce and themed acts like a Rat Pack tribute are popular choices.
- Confirm in writing, including set times and what the act needs.
October: invitations and details
- Send invitations with the date, venue, dress code and transport options.
- Collect dietary requirements and accessibility needs.
- Plan any awards or speeches so the entertainment can be timed around them.
November: running order and logistics
- Draft the running order with the venue: arrival, drinks, meal, speeches, entertainment, disco, carriages.
- Send it to the act, with a contact for the night.
- Arrange transport and check last trains or taxis.
- Think about inclusivity: alcohol-free drinks, quieter areas and entertainment that doesn't rely on everyone joining in.
The week of the party
- Reconfirm numbers with the venue.
- Share the act's arrival time with venue staff.
- Nominate someone sober to be the contact for the venue and the act.
On the night
Keep the speeches short and before the entertainment starts. Then let the act take over.
Quick answers
When should we book Christmas party entertainment?
For Fridays and Saturdays in December, aim for late summer or early autumn. Weeknights and January dates have more choice.
What entertainment suits a mixed office?
A party band or versatile vocalist covers the widest range of ages. A comedian works well after dinner if the material is pitched for a work audience. Our Christmas party quiz can help.
Do you charge agency booking fees?
No. With Flair the price we quote is the price you pay.
Get a quote
See our Christmas party entertainment ideas or send us your date.
Ready to find your act?
Flair Entertainments has been booking entertainers for clients across the UK since 1984. Send us your date, venue and the kind of night you want and we’ll come back with acts that suit.
