Holiday Party Venues for Rent in Chicago, IL

Planning a holiday party in Chicago? From downtown rooftops with skyline views to cozy venues in the suburbs, the city offers plenty of standout spaces to celebrate the season. 

Top Holiday Party Locations in Chicago

West Loop – Known for its top-tier restaurants and loft-style venues, perfect for food-forward celebrations or upscale corporate events. Top Pick: Gallery Loft In the Heart of Fulton Market – West Loop

River North – Ideal for cocktail parties and private dinners, with elegant bars and intimate lounges dotted throughout the neighborhood. Top Pick: Joy District – River North

Lincoln Park – Great for smaller gatherings in charming cafés or historic townhouses, plus easy access to local holiday attractions. Top Pick: Candlelite Chicago Lincoln Park – Near North Side

The Loop – Central and transit-friendly, with a mix of modern event spaces, rooftop venues, and hotel ballrooms suited for larger corporate parties. Top Pick: One East Wacker – Theatre District

Chicago Suburbs – Looking to avoid downtown traffic? You'll find spacious banquet halls and scenic venues with ample parking and more flexible pricing. Top Pick: The Mirage Banquets – Schiller Park

What Are Some Unique Holiday Party Venues In Chicago?

Chicago doesn’t hold back when it comes to the holidays—and neither should your party venue. If you’re looking for something a little different this season (goodbye hotel ballroom, hello snowglobe vibes), here are five unique holiday party venues in Chicago that bring the fun, flair, and just the right amount of festive magic.

• Elf’d Up – Wrigleyville
  Yes, this is literally a Christmas explosion. Think floor-to-ceiling lights, tinsel-covered walls, and a Santa-sized dose of holiday spirit. It's playful, over-the-top, and perfect for a party with ugly sweaters and spiked cider.
  Seats 175 | Minimum spend $1000/session
• Christmas Club Chicago – Lakeview
  This pop-up bar turns into a full-blown North Pole fever dream. Candy cane photo ops, boozy hot chocolate, and a vibe that screams “office party, but actually fun.” Book early—it fills up fast.
  Seats 250 | Minimum spend $2000/session
• NYCH Art Gallery – Lower West Side
  For something artsy and unexpected, this gallery space lets you host your holiday bash surrounded by local works and creative energy. Add string lights, a jazz trio, and voilà—your coolest party yet.
  Seats 75 | From $225/hr

Are There Affordable Holiday Party Venues In Chicago?

Chicago has plenty of affordable holiday party venues that still bring the cheer without burning through your bonus. Whether you're planning a corporate celebration, a family-friendly gathering, or a cozy dinner party with friends, there are great options at every price point—some even with skyline views.

• Popup Chicago – Logan Square A flexible, creative space that’s easy to customize with your branding or festive décor. Perfect for office parties with room for catering, music, and a casual end-of-year toast. Seats 25 | From $100/hr
• Maharlika 360 – Jefferson Park Bright and affordable with enough room for food, games, and a family photo corner. It’s great for a potluck-style gathering or casual catered dinner. Seats 40 | From $85/hr
• Claddagh Ring Pub – Ravenswood Classic pub feel with an event space that works great for laid-back holiday parties. Grab some Irish fare, pour a round of cheer, and enjoy private access without big costs. Seats 60 | From $150/hr

Key Planning Tips for Your Holiday Bash

• Book early. December dates fill fast. Lock in your venue as early as possible, especially for weekends or Fridays.
• Set a budget. Include venue hire, food and drink, entertainment, transportation, and decor. Tagvenue lets you filter spaces by budget range.
• Choose a venue that fits your group. Corporate events usually call for formal seating or presentation areas; family parties might need a kid-friendly setup or dance floor.
• Prioritize location and access. Choose a venue near CTA stations or with available parking—especially important during snowy Chicago nights.
• Ask about packages. Some venues include holiday menus, decor, or A/V equipment in their rates. Others allow BYOB or external catering to help you cut costs.

Holiday Themes That Actually Work

• Winter Wonderland – All-white decor, snowflake centerpieces, and hot toddies. Works well in lofts and banquet halls.
• Après Ski Lodge – Cozy, warm lighting, flannel table runners, and spiked cider. Ideal for more intimate spaces with fireplaces or rustic charm.
• Retro Holiday Party – Vinyl records, classic cocktails, and mid-century decor. Pair this theme with a vintage bar or lounge.
• Hawaiian Holiday – Tiki drinks and leis in the middle of a Chicago winter? Yes. Perfect for laid-back bars and warmer indoor patios.

Make It Memorable: Party Add-ons Worth Considering

• Entertainment – Live jazz bands, DJs, or Christmas carolers give your party a distinct vibe.
• Photo booth or photographer – Great for capturing moments, especially at corporate or milestone events.
• Holiday trivia, karaoke, or games – Break the ice with structured fun (and maybe a prize or two).
• Custom drinks – Ask your venue if they allow a guest mixologist or offer signature cocktails.

Things to Do Before Your Holiday Party

Get your guests into the festive spirit before the event even starts:

• Visit Christkindlmarket – Sip mulled wine, browse handmade ornaments, and grab pre-party snacks.
• Ice skate in Millennium Park – Iconic rink, city lights, and an unbeatable photo backdrop.
• Take a holiday train or bus ride – The CTA’s festively decorated vehicles are a Chicago favorite.
• Watch Art on the MART – The city’s largest digital art installation offers a seasonal show near the Riverwalk.
• Stroll through ZooLights or Lightscape at the Botanic Garden – Great pre-party options for guests arriving early.

From holiday dinners with a view to end-of-year celebrations that go late into the night, Chicago has the perfect venue for your festive gathering. Explore your options now on Tagvenue and make this year’s party one to remember.