Planning a Xmas Party

It’s a bit early to mention the C word now,
but let’s don’t deny it, Christmas is coming up fairly quickly.
I am not a fan of Xmas decoration in shops and streets before December,
but believe it or not, some little elves are working already hiding away in conference rooms in a workplace near to you.

It’s the time of the year companies are planning their Xmas Parties to make sure they get a date in at the different venues. It’s easy to get confused what’s on offer and what should be planned for your company Xmas Party, gathering with club members or friends before the festivities.

Here a little guide if you are involved in the planning of a function for your workplace or club.
Gather Information:

How many people you expecting to attend ?
Are you up for a formal sit down dinner or does your team like it rather informal ?
What’s the budged per head for food/drinks and entertainment?
Which Date is preferred by management, party during the week or on the weekend ?

Once you gathered this information you should already have a good enough idea what offer is best for your crowd.

Offers available:
For small team night outs and informal gatherings where the craic is most important, with a low per head budget you will probably get the best deals if you talk to your local publican.
You can’t go wrong with tasty sandwiches and a tap, or two drink vouchers and that’s available for as low as 10 Euro per head.  In pubs they are offering menus at restaurant level and you can get more than just the finger a food option.

For groups who want the intimacy of a sit down menu, get your dates in now in one of the towns restaurants. Menus are available from around 20 Euro per head for a 2 course meal, up to 40 Euro for a 4 course meal deal. The spaces/dates are already limited, so make your bookings now.

Good advice for anyone reaching out to the venues for offers, call between 3 and 6pm to talk about your party, around lunch time and in the evening the staff is busy with their lunch/dinner service.
Or why not dropping them an email or text message with your contact details, so they can call you back and take time to discuss what you are looking for.

The last option I wanted to mention is one of the Xmas party nights organized by the local hotels.
There are food / entertainment packages available starting at around 27,- Euro up to 45,- Euro which include mulled wine reception, game entertainment and party music.
That’s good value too, especially if you up for a good night dancing and partying.

Whatever option is best for you and your colleagues is entirely up to you, most important is that you have fun and a relaxing time, doesn’t matter how big or small the budged is.
Make sure you prearrange transportation or have a designated driver so you get back home safely from your night out.