Holiday Party Venues for Rent in Washington, DC

Holiday Party Venues Rental Guide

Never underestimate the power of a holiday party, we know that these can take your relationships to the next level. We tend to overlook the significance of such events at work. Yet, hosting a company holiday party can not only boost morale but also improve company culture and bring your people closer! But how do you go about planning a party that your employees won’t skip? Don’t fret, we’re here to help!

When was the last time you entered the workplace kitchen and dealt with awkward silences or petty talk? This morning? Or perhaps yesterday? Well, with the help of a fabulous end-of-year holiday party, this is about to change. You would think that employees see holiday parties as a reward for their relentless work and dedication. Unfortunately, it’s rarely the case, whether it’s the bad fruitcake or the shabby venue, several things can turn a fun event into a dull one. Moreover, holiday parties are a hassle to plan, they’re expensive, and attendance is frequently lower than you expect. But let’s dig deeper into the purpose of those famous company end-of-year celebrations and what they entail besides a morale boost. 

How can holiday parties help your company?

Aside from being the ''event of the year,'' there are several benefits to throwing a holiday party. Holiday parties improve employee relations. There’s a high chance that half of your staff have never spoken to one another. Parties are a great way to get conversations started and to give your staff something to talk about for the coming year. Once your employees are far from the formal setting of offices, they can leave work behind and be themselves. It’s the simplest way to improve internal relations within your company. 

 Parties are a means to thank your employees. The people who worked tirelessly for you deserve more than a round of applause. And what better way to thank them than by throwing a dinner party and having a toast to them? You can even throw in the famous Secret Santa tradition to let everyone know that their contribution makes a difference. If you’re a start-up or even a big corporation, you could host an awards night on the same occasion and hand out trophies or plaques to the best employees or teams! Showing appreciation is a good way to keep your employees happy at work. 

Let your employees blow off steam after a hectic year. Your employees will be grateful to simply relax and be away from the daily grind during the festive season. Everyone loves dressing up and having a good time. It’s a smart move to host the holiday party on a Friday so that your employees can recover during the weekend. They’ll likely return to work with a big smile on their faces after a night of laughter! Holiday parties are more than just fun events, they bring people together and improve company relations, which, in turn, boosts motivation and productivity.

How to throw a company holiday party?

Throwing the ultimate holiday party at work requires more than finding a classy venue or sending out the invitations, which is why we’ve rounded up some tips to help you with your planning.

Make a checklist

You can find several party planning checklists for free on the internet. Checklists cover all the party elements that will help you throw a sparkling holiday party.  Whether you’re looking for a Christmas party planning checklist or a Thanksgiving one, you’ll certainly find it in no time.

Save the date

Start with a survey using Google Forms and provide your employees with a few optional dates. Remember to allow people to vote anonymously. Pick the date with the majority vote and inform everyone about it. You can either send an IM to everyone or simply send an email to all. The latter is always better.

Set a party budget

We’d love to tell you that you can spend as much as you like at the party. However, this is not the case. You need to determine a specific budget for the company holiday party. You can always be slightly flexible to accommodate all the necessary party elements. Think entertainment, food, and venue—the main components of a successful party. Then add the pleasant extras to it, such as party supplies, plaques, transportation, and accommodation. 

Choose a party type and theme

Working in a corporate environment? Why not lighten up the mood and host a tropical-themed party? Casual affairs are excellent for breaking the 9-5 routine, whereas parties that include activities such as ice skating or boating are fantastic for team building. If you are working at a start-up, anything from a gala to a jungle-themed party can work. If you want something more formal, go for a dinner party and let the venue take care of everything from the decor to the signature cocktails.  

Choose the holiday party venue

Last but not least, pick a place that exudes an inclusive atmosphere for your staff. For instance, restaurants are great for exchanges and getting to know each other. Pubs are fantastic for employees to relax, and they also allow sufficient space for everyone to mingle or keep to themselves, depending on their mood. Venues like lofts and hotels are ideal for weekends, whereas ballrooms are a fab option if you’re holding a gala or Oscars-themed night. You can hold a brainstorming session, share the party themes with the people, and let them vote for their favorite theme. Don’t skip the holiday goody bags for everyone at the end of the party.

Step-By-Step Guide to Elevate Your Holiday Party Soundtrack

There's no better way to elevate your holiday party in Washington, D.C., than with the perfect music playlist. Music sets the mood, creates ambiance, and brings everyone together. Whether you're hosting an intimate gathering or a large-scale event, curating a thoughtfully crafted playlist can enhance the festive atmosphere. In this guide, we'll take you through a step-by-step process to create a playlist that will make your holiday party incredible.

Step 1: Define the Vibe

Before diving into song selections, it's essential to determine the vibe you want to create at your party. Consider the overall theme of your event and the atmosphere you want to establish. Are you aiming for a cozy and intimate gathering with soft background music, or do you want a lively and energetic party with upbeat tunes to get everyone on their feet? Once you have a clear vision of the vibe, it will be easier to curate a playlist that aligns with your desired ambiance. Additionally, think about the demographics of your guests and their musical preferences to create a playlist that appeals to everyone in attendance.  

Step 2: Mix the Classics with Modern Hits

Mixing the classics with modern hits can help create a playlist that caters to a wide range of musical tastes. Blend classic holiday tunes like "White Christmas" by Bing Crosby and "Jingle Bells" by Frank Sinatra with modern hits like "All I Want for Christmas Is You" by Mariah Carey and "Last Christmas" by Wham!. This mix ensures that guests of all ages will find something to enjoy. By including timeless songs that everyone knows and loves, as well as current chart-toppers, you can ensure there's something for everyone to enjoy. Additionally, consider adding some lesser-known holiday gems to the playlist to surprise and delight your guests! Songs like "Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)" by Darlene Love or "Feliz Navidad" by Jose Feliciano can add a unique touch to the mix and introduce your guests to new favorites. 

Step 3: Add a Dash of Local Touch

Make your playlist more unique by incorporating songs from local artists or holiday renditions of D.C. favorites. Consider including tracks like "Christmas in Washington" by Steve Earle or "Christmas Eve in Washington" performed by Maura Sullivan, showcasing the city's musical heritage. This will give your playlist a personalized and local touch, making it more memorable for your guests. 

Step 4: Create a Flow

To create a seamless flow, organize your playlist in a way that transitions smoothly between songs. Consider grouping similar genres or tempos together to maintain a consistent vibe. Additionally, pay attention to the energy levels of each song and arrange them accordingly to build anticipation and keep the momentum going throughout the event. For example, you can start with some soft background music as guests arrive and mingle. Once everyone is settled and ready to party, gradually increase the tempo and energy of the music to get people on their feet and dancing. Lastly, don't forget to read the crowd's reactions and adjust the playlist accordingly, ensuring that everyone is having a great time and enjoying the music. 

Step 5: Pay Attention to Lyrics

While it's important to focus on the tempo and energy of the music, paying attention to lyrics is equally crucial. Make sure that the songs you choose align with the overall atmosphere and theme of the event. While some holiday songs are lighthearted and fun, others delve into deeper emotions. Avoid playing tracks with explicit or controversial lyrics that may offend or alienate some guests. Instead, select uplifting, positive songs that resonate with a wide range of people to maintain a fun and inclusive atmosphere. 

Step 8: Hire a DJ or Live Band

If you want to take your music to the next level, consider hiring a DJ or a live band with experience in holiday events. They can read the room and adjust the playlist in real-time to keep the energy high and the dance floor packed. Additionally, professionals know the importance of creating a balance between familiar and lesser-known songs, ensuring that the atmosphere remains fresh and exciting throughout the event! Explore some available DJs or bands for hire in Washington, D.C., that align with the desired vibe of your event. 

Step 9: Interactive Requests

Another way to enhance the music experience is by incorporating interactive requests. Allow your guests to submit song requests beforehand or provide a dedicated area where they can make on-the-spot requests during the event. If you're hosting a corporate event, consider creating a digital platform where all team members can vote for their favorite songs, creating a sense of engagement and involvement. This ensures everyone gets to listen to their favorite tunes, creating a more personalized and enjoyable atmosphere!

Step 10: Test Run

Before the big day, do a test run of your playlist.  Listen to it from start to finish to make sure it flows smoothly and creates the desired atmosphere. You can ask a few friends or colleagues to listen to the playlist and provide feedback. This will help you identify any songs that may not flow well or need to be replaced. It's also a good idea to consider the length of your playlist and make sure it aligns with the duration of your event. Then, you can be sure there are enough songs to keep the atmosphere lively without awkward pauses or abrupt endings. 

By following these steps and curating a thoughtfully crafted music playlist, you'll surely elevate your holiday party in Washington, D.C., to a whole new level. Make sure to choose a venue that allows you to have control over the music and sound system so you can fully immerse your guests in the festive atmosphere. Enjoy the night and create lasting memories with your friends and loved ones as you dance the night away to the perfect holiday tunes!

FAQs about Holiday Party Venues in Washington, DC

What are the best neighborhoods for hosting a holiday party in Washington, D.C.?

If by "best" you mean "hippest," you’re lucky to be in Washington. This cultural melting pot is filled with energetic and vibrant spots. Capitol Hill is one such place where you can enjoy the Smithsonian museums and many fantastic entertainment options ranging from hip bars to premium eateries On the weekend, you can go shopping or brunch around Eastern Market, the iconic farmers' market. Try Columbia Heights, one of the most up-and-coming neighborhoods in Washington, perfect for the ultimate urban feel. Known for its shopping and funky coffee shops, Columbia Heights is a good choice for first-timers. For something more picturesque, head to Georgetown, one of the most sought-after places to live in Washington. Whether you love high-end boutiques, ristorantes, or buzzing nightlife, this place has got it all!

When should I book a venue for the holiday party?

Well, we found out that early planning makes a huge difference to the success of the party. Popular venues are usually all booked by the second week of September, so it’s best to start planning at least 4 months ahead and reserve your desired venue ASAP.

What is a rental fee for a party venue and what does it include?

Count around $18 per person for an affordable venue in Dallas. You can easily find several venues for less than $75/hour. The rental fee varies on the venue type and hiring hours. Other things such as peak days or seasons may influence the price. The rental fee covers the rental of the space, tables, chairs, and possibly catering and other amenities. (All data according to Tagvenue.) 

Do all holiday party venues have an in-house caterer or list of preferred caterers?

No, not all. Some venues like gardens, lofts, or dancehalls may not have an in-house caterer or list of preferred caterers. You will need to check that before booking the space. However other venues have in-house caterers who can work with you on the menu options for the holiday party. You can also choose your preferred caterer from their list to ensure premium service.

Can I bring my own alcohol to the holiday party spaces?

Several holiday party venues in Houston allow you to BYOB but will only require the drinks to be served by their certified bartenders, while other spaces will only allow alcohol at events that are catered. Don’t forget to look into that while searching for a venue! 

Aside from these requirements, BYO alcohol often means corkage fees. If you want to avoid these surcharges, consider a venue like Martha Spak Gallery on the iconic Wharf or the Atrium at Studio Theatre near Logan Circle. These holiday party spaces allow you to enjoy all the advantages of BYOB without charging any additional fees!