Create a holiday party that’s straight out of a Hallmark movie! Imagine some winter wonderland decor, clinking champagne glasses, happy laughter, and the warm glow of twinkle lights all around. And the key ingredient? Some amazing music and entertainment. That’s where we come in! Check out these holiday party entertainment ideas that are sure to make your celebration unforgettable.
1. Santa Claus (and the Mrs.)
It isn’t Christmas without Santa Claus! Sure, you can find him in almost any mall in America, but the big guy in red can also make home visits. Hire a Santa to come to your house or venue to pose for photos, deliver gifts, and listen to Christmas wishes. There are even fun ways to incorporate Santa at company holiday parties to get adults in on the Christmas magic.
And, of course, you can’t forget Santa’s better half. Every great Christmas party needs a Mrs. Claus! She can assist Santa with his Christmas duties or host her own fun party activities like baking, crafting, or storytelling. She also has an inside track on which cookies are Santa’s favorite.
👉 Pro tip: Santa’s calendar fills up fast, so set your date and start your search early. Our friend Santa True has some great tips on how to book a Santa during the busy holiday season.
2. Elves
Ever since the movie Elf came out in 2003, elves have been rivaling Santa in popularity. Especially with Elf on the Shelf infiltrating homes everywhere. If you want a little more silliness at your party, elves are the perfect holiday party entertainment! They are notoriously mischievous and aren’t afraid to shake things up.
Santa’s elves can help lead Christmas party games, secret Santa gift exchanges, or sing-alongs, as well as keep everyone laughing during their visit. Just watch out for snowball fights, tickle attacks, and photobombs when you book elves for your event!
3. Christmas Carolers
Create a truly unique holiday celebration with a group of traditional Christmas carolers! Donned in authentic Victorian-era clothing and packing some pipes, carolers will transport you back to a Dickens novel in no time. They can sing all the most popular songs and encourage guests to join in, too.
Is your holiday party theme more Rudolph than Tiny Tim? You can also find local singing groups for a more modern caroling experience. These talented performers are ready to spread Christmas cheer with all of your favorite holiday tunes. And rather than bonnets and top hats, they can wear festive winter beanies and brightly-colored sweaters that fit your themed party.
4. Storyteller
For celebrations with lots of little ones present, booking a professional storyteller is a great holiday party idea for keeping them entertained. These talented narrators can bring Christmas classics like The Night Before Christmas, The Polar Express, or How the Grinch Stole Christmas to life with ease. Storytellers can quickly engage a group of rowdy toddlers (or adults who’ve had too much hot toddy) and get everyone in the holiday spirit.
🎁 Looking for more ways to keep the children engaged? We have 15 cheery Christmas party ideas for kids (with free printables)!
5. Horse-Drawn Carriage
How about hoof beats, sleigh bells, and warm apple cider? A horse-drawn carriage ride in the snow is one of the most magical ways to celebrate Christmas! Bundle up your loved ones in cozy flannel blankets and pile into the carriage. As the old song goes, “The horse knows the way to carry the sleigh through the white and drifted snow!”
6. Flair Bartender
Office holiday parties shouldn’t get to have all the fun! If your parties tend to be in high “spirits,” a flair bartender can add the perfect touch of festive entertainment. Not only can they serve traditional drinks, but they also do it with a flourish. Flair bartenders will amaze your guests with their spinning, flipping, and sometimes even fiery displays with your favorite cocktails! They can even help you create a personalized drink for the party. Merry Martinis, anyone?
🎊 You might also like: 8 Themes for an Unforgettable Corporate Holiday Party
7. Christmas Flicks
If you’re lucky enough to live in one of the warmer states for Christmas, take your holiday party entertainment outside! With so many classic holiday movies, why not host your own screening? Inflatable movie screens are great for backyards; just add a few strings of Christmas lights to create some holiday ambiance. A popcorn bar or egg nog station are perfect complements to It’s a Wonderful Life or A Christmas Story.
🎥 You might also like: Fun Ideas for a Cozy Backyard Move Night
8. Jazz Band
Hosting a classy Christmas affair? Dim the lights and strike up the band! The jazz band, that is. Get your guests’ toes tapping and fingers snapping with Christmas classics on the horns, strings, and drums! Jazz music is the perfect holiday party entertainment for formal gatherings like Christmas galas, fundraisers, and corporate holiday parties.
If you’re hosting a smaller get-together or need a budget-friendly option, soloists can provide a beautiful atmosphere without breaking the bank. Hire a jazz pianist or saxophone player to create a jazzy soundtrack for your holiday celebration.
9. Christmas Sing-Along
Starting on November 1st, we’re surrounded by tinny holiday tunes in department stores. And as much as we love to grumble and complain about it, we can’t help but hum or sing along. Carry that infectious energy into your holiday party entertainment by hiring a professional musician to lead your guests in a sing-along!
Whether you prefer a singing pianist or a singing guitarist, most musicians already have lots of holiday music in their repertoire. If you have special requests, don’t be afraid to ask! They usually have no problem learning new music for your holiday party.
10. Photo Booth
Ugly sweater parties have become a staple theme this time of year! But what’s the fun of wearing something silly if you don’t capture it on film? A photo booth is always a popular holiday party entertainment idea and gives your guests a bunch of laughs as well as a cute keepsake to take home. Throw in a basket of props like Santa beards and hats, elf ears, oversized candy canes, and reindeer antlers, and you’re set!
🎄 Looking for more inspiration? Check out this list of holiday party ideas for every audience, theme, and budget!
Whether you’re planning a private party, community gathering, or corporate event, fun and festive entertainment is essential. Fill your venue with fun characters, festive activities, and beautiful Christmas music to create a truly special holiday celebration this year!
Ready to book some awesome holiday party entertainment? Find the best musicians, performers, and event services at GigSalad.
Megan is the Director of Customer Experience at GigSalad and has gained 9+ years of insight on what makes a great event on both sides of the booking process. Her favorite things include books, true crime podcasts, coffee, hiking, puns, and making people laugh.