2025 Holiday Party Trends: Festive, Fun & Totally Doable

The most wonderful time of the year deserves more than just the usual dinner and drinks. Holiday parties in 2025 are shaping up to be more creative, more personalized, and more unforgettable than ever before. Whether you’re planning an elegant sit-down dinner, a vibrant cocktail party, or a winter-themed celebration, this year’s trends are all about bringing people together in fresh and exciting ways.

Here’s what’s trending for 2025—and how to make your holiday event one to remember.

 

 

Fresh Colour Palettes with a Seasonal Feel

 

Not every holiday event needs glitter and garland. This year’s colour trends bring in warm, modern tones that work beautifully with simple setups:

  • Champagne & Charcoal – Think cozy elegance with gold accents, candles, and warm lighting.
  • Navy & Silver – Understated and wintry, perfect for nighttime events.
  • Evergreen & Cream – A nod to the outdoors with neutral, calming tones.
  • Soft Blush & Gold – A touch of delicate blush tones offering sophistication without overwhelming sparkle
  • Classic Red & Evergreen – The holiday go-to. Add a modern edge with gold cutlery or plaid napkins.

 

Even something as simple as matching your napkins, centerpieces, and table signage to one of these themes adds polish and intention.

 

 

Food & Drink That Gets People Talking (and Eating)

 

Good food is the heart of every great event—but that doesn’t mean it has to be fancy. It just needs to be fun, festive, and a little different from the usual:

  • Holiday-Inspired Appetizers – Steak bites, mini sliders, baked brie with cranberry chutney, or festive flatbreads.
  • Interactive Stations – DIY taco bars, build-your-own nachos, or a poutine station  (yes please!).
  • Sweet Endings – Mini desserts, bread pudding, or a hot chocolate and toppings bar (bonus points for peppermint marshmallows).
  • Signature Cocktails & Mocktails – Try a spiced Cranberry Fizz Cocktail or a Spiced Sangria.

 

Bonus idea: Give your drinks fun names like “The Mistletoe Mule” or “CEO’s Secret Eggnog” to add a playful twist.

 

 

Celebration Styles That Actually Work

 

Not every group needs a DJ and a dance floor. The most popular event formats for 2025 keep things flexible, team-friendly, and low-stress:

  • After-Work Cocktail Reception – A few hours of mingling with small bites and festive drinks.
  • Lunchtime Celebrations – Midday meals are budget-friendly and great for hybrid or family-oriented teams.
  • Holiday Brunch – Who doesn’t love waffles, mimosas, and festive tunes?
  • Holiday Open House – Come-and-go format with casual snacks and company giveaways.

 

These formats let you celebrate without adding pressure to your calendar or your team’s energy levels.

 

Simple Décor That Sets the Mood

 

  • Lavish floral installs and custom lounges? Not needed. 2025 is all about thoughtful touches that still feel festive:
  • Battery-powered candles or tea lights to create warm, welcoming tablescapes.
  • Small evergreen centerpieces accented with ornaments or ribbon—simple, beautiful, and budget-friendly.
  • Custom-printed menus or drink tags in your event colours for a polished finish.
  • Wrapped gift boxes, mini trees, or branded swag worked into the décor for a personalized touch.
  • Mix-and-match furniture for a relaxed vibe – Instead of only traditional banquet rounds, many Sandman venues have access to couches, coffee tables, and lounge chairs that can be incorporated to create a casual, comfortable setting where guests can mingle and unwind.

 

Pro tip: Lean into cozy—think soft lighting, warm drinks, and ambient music that sets a laid-back tone.

 

 

Simple Ways to Add a Little Spark

 

Looking to add some festive energy without going overboard? 2025 holiday parties are all about easy, low-effort entertainment that makes a big impact:

  • Holiday Trivia Games – Break the ice with fun, themed trivia questions. Great for lunch parties or seated dinners.
  • Family Feud-style Games – Split guests into teams and bring out their competitive side with a fast-paced, survey-style game that’s perfect for getting everyone laughing and engaged.
  • Casual DJ or Curated Playlist – Keep the vibe upbeat with a holiday-meets-throwback playlist or a low-key DJ set.
  • Live Acoustic Music – A solo guitarist or pianist adds atmosphere without overpowering conversation.
  • Holiday Bingo or Raffle Draws – Great for larger groups. Add small prizes, company swag, or themed gift cards.
  • Photo Corners – Set up a simple backdrop or holiday-themed props for casual team selfies.
  • Entertainment doesn’t need to take over your event—it just needs to create a few moments of fun and connection.

 

Book Early, Celebrate Smoothly

 

No one wants to be scrambling for a venue or menu in December. Booking your holiday party early gives you access to better dates, more choices, and time to get creative. Our teams at the Sandman Hotel Group are ready to help you make it easy, seamless, and fun!