Your ultimate pre-Christmas party checklist

The end of the year is fast approaching, and the office buzz might be making the shift from deadlines to decorations. Although it’s still crunch time, the Christmas party is the crescendo of the corporate calendar. A time to unwind and celebrate the year that was. Our pre-Christmas party checklist helps you to get all your ducks in a row!

Whether your company party is a swanky rooftop cocktail event, a long lunch, or some casual drinks at a competitive bowling alley, we’ve put together the checklist that will ensure nothing slips through the tinsel-covered cracks.

Your ultimate pre-Christmas party checklist

Logistics and planning

• Venue confirmation: Double-check your booking with accessibility and capacity limits.
• Catering confirmation: Please confirm guest numbers and dietary needs. Then, follow up with your staff to ensure that you haven’t missed any important diets or allergies.
• Run sheet: Create a timeline for arrivals, speeches, dinner, and entertainment and share it with the venue’s event coordinators.
• Weather backup: It might be an Australian summer, but with that comes unpredictable storms, heat waves, and the occasional cold blast (if you’re Victorian, especially!). Have a weather contingency plan that can shelter guests.

Communication and policy reminders

It’s not the most glamorous side of party planning, but as it’s a corporate event, expectations can help everyone relax and enjoy themselves.

• Code of conduct: Send a friendly, non-preachy reminder about behaviour, inclusivity, and responsible drinking.
• Social media policy: Remind staff what’s okay (and not okay) to post.
• Reporting procedure: Quietly include who to contact if someone is feeling vulnerable.
• Next-day expectations: Clarify whether flexible starts or work-from-home options are in place for the morning after.

Transport and safety

Staff’s safety getting there and back home is just as important as their safety at the event. 

• Uber or taxi vouchers: Distribute in advance or on the night.
• Public transport: Share details and last service times.

Dress code and theme

The age old office question, “What are you wearing to the Christmas party?” will no doubt ripple around the walls, as people then say “Well, what’s the dress code?” The more clarity, the fewer questions and less I’m overdressed moments.

• Theme or vibe: Communicate early: cocktail, casual, festive.
• Comfort factor: If you’re outdoors or doing an activity, let people know of appropriate footwear.

Food and drinks

F&B is imperative at the office Christmas party. From signature cocktails through to potato salad, everything is going to be consumed and enjoyed. A well-fed team is a happy one.

• Menu confirmations: Cater for all dietary requirements.
• Bar limits: Set clear expectations for drink service (tabs, tickets, or RSA).
• Non-alcoholic options: Make them visible — mocktails, juices, and plenty of water stations.

Fun and engagement

Some people just want to sit back and have a few drinks at a work Christmas party and others will want to get involved, have a dance, or play some games. 

• Entertainment: Trivia, live music, or even a DJ can make the night.
• Company awards: Celebrate achievements or inject humour with lighthearted “office moments” awards.
• Photo booth or photographer: Capture the night — but brief them on your company’s image preferences.

Post-event follow-up

Your job doesn’t end when the lights come on.

• Thank-you message: Send a quick note (and maybe a few photos) to wrap things up.
• Feedback: Optional, but it helps make next year smoother.

Reach out to one of our team today if you’ve still got planning to do!