BEST SHARED EXPERIENCE

This category celebrates the ultimate group celebration: a shared Christmas party experience that brings multiple companies together under one roof.

events that combine festive flair, entertainment, atmosphere and seamless organisation to create a memorable night for all.

Entries should showcase how they foster camaraderie, inclusivity and fun in a communal setting with attention to detail in production, catering, and service.

From dynamic themes to crowd-pleasing performances, the best shared experience should deliver a night to remember —while making every guest feel part of something special.

BEST COMPETITIVE SOCIALISING

This award recognises venues or experiences that blend festive fun with a healthy dose of competition. Whether ITS immersive game zones or team challenges with a Christmas twist, we’re looking for unique ways companies can bond through playful rivalry.

Great competitive socialising adds energy, laughter and unforgettable moments to the Christmas party season.

Entrants should demonstrate how the activity enhances the guest experience, encourages interaction, and keeps spirits high, while maintaining top-notch food, drink, and hospitality.

Innovation, atmosphere, and team engagement are key to standing out in this growing category.

BEST PRIVATE DINING ROOM

For teams looking for an exclusive festive experience, private dining rooms offer elegance, intimacy, and impeccable service. This category recognises spaces that go beyond just good food—where ambiance, design, and personal touches elevate the Christmas celebration.

Judges will look for venues that cater to both small and large groups with mouth watering menus, attentive service and a unique atmosphere. Whether it’s a cosy nook or a chic room in a luxury hotel, the best private dining rooms create cherished memories through privacy, comfort and culinary excellence.

BEST LARGE VENUE 500+

This award celebrates the showstoppers of the festive season—large venues that host grand-scale Christmas parties for 500 guests or more.

From ballrooms to warehouses, marquees to arenas, this category rewards venues that handle size without compromising on quality.

We’re looking for entries that show creativity in design, logistical excellence and the ability to deliver a cohesive and spectacular experience to large crowds.

Sound, lighting, catering and entertainment all play a vital role. The winning venue will be a master of scale, offering unforgettable festive experiences to hundreds of guests in one amazing night.

BEST ONE OF A KIND VENUE

This category is for venues that break the mould—truly one of a kind in design, concept, or experience.

Whether it’s an unusual location, unexpected décor, or a totally unique Christmas party format, this award recognises the venues that offer something totally different.

We’re looking for creativity, innovation and a sense of festive magic that can’t be found elsewhere. Entries should show how the space stands out from the crowd and delivers something unforgettable, offering a Christmas party experience that’s as distinctive as it is memorable.

BEST NEW OPENING

Recognising venues that launched OR UNDERTOOK A FULL REFURBISHMENT FOR CHRISTMAS 2024 OR 2025, this category highlights exciting new additions to the festive party scene.

Whether it’s a restaurant, rooftop bar, event space or immersive venue, we’re looking for bold newcomers that have made a splash with their Christmas offerings.

Entrants should showcase what sets their venue apart—be it innovative design, top-tier service or unique festive programming.

The winning venue will have hit the ground running, creating memorable celebrations that have already built a loyal following or captured attention in a competitive market.

BEST RESTAURANT

This category celebrates restaurants that go above and beyond to deliver outstanding Christmas party experiences.

From set festive menus to private hire options, entertainment and impeccable hospitality, the best restaurants offer more than just great food.

Judges will be looking for venues that combine atmosphere, service and FESTIVE inspired experiences that reflect the magic of the SEASON. Whether it’s traditional roastS or creative culinary twists, the winner will provide guests with a Christmas celebration that’s delicious, stylish and utterly memorable.

BEST ON THE RIVER

From floating party venues to riverside restaurants and bars, this category is for venues that make the most of their waterfront location.

A river setting adds glamour, views and a sense of occasion to any festive celebration.

We’re looking for venues that utilise their position creatively—be it through décor, layout, views or transport. Whether docked or drifting, the best river venue will offer an unforgettable Christmas party experience with stunning scenery, quality hospitality and a unique sense of place.

BEST 4 STAR HOTEL

This award honours 4-star hotels offering exceptional Christmas party experiences.

Combining festive atmosphere with excellent value and professional service, these venues strike the perfect balance between elegance and accessibility.

We’re looking for hotels that deliver stylish décor, well-crafted menus, versatile event spaces and outstanding guest service.

Whether hosting corporate groups or private parties, the best 4-star hotel will demonstrate reliability, flexibility and a strong festive offering that delights guests from arrival to departure.

BEST 5 STAR HOTEL

Celebrating the pinnacle of luxury, this category rewards 5-star hotels that deliver world-class Christmas party experiences. From grand ballrooms to Michelin-starred menus, exquisite service to iconic décor, these venues offer unmatched festive celebrations. Judges will be looking for creativity, polish and a seamless guest journey that reflects the highest standards. Whether it’s a corporate soirée or an intimate dinner, the winning venue should embody elegance, festivity and excellence at every touchpoint.

BEST VENUE WITH A VIEW

This award is for venues offering breathtaking views that enhance the Christmas party experience. Whether it’s a skyline, riverside, or landmark outlook, theSE venues make their setting part of the celebration.

Judges will consider how the view contributes to the atmosphere, creates photo-worthy moments, and adds to the overall guest experience. A great view, paired with excellent service, food and festive charm makeS an event truly unforgettable.

BEST HISTORIC VENUE

This category celebrates venues steeped in history that provide a magical backdrop for festive celebrations.

From castles and museums to heritage buildings and historic halls, we’re looking for places that blend old-world charm with modern event delivery.

Entries should highlight how the venue’s history adds character and ambience to Christmas events, while offering comfort, functionality and outstanding service. The best historic venue will create an immersive and memorable experience rooted in tradition and storytelling.

BEST VENUE TRANSFORMATION

This award recognises venues that undergo a stunning seasonal transformation to host unforgettable Christmas events.

Whether it’s a warehouse turned winter wonderland or a hotel dressed in christmas chic, we want to see spaces that creatively reinvent themselves for the festive season.

Judges will look for ingenuity, attention to detail and wow-factor in décor, lighting, staging, and theming.

The best transformation should immerse guests in a magical experience that feels completely unique to Christmas.

BEST SPORTING VENUE

For celebrations with a sporty twist, This award recognises stadiums that offer exceptional event facilities, creative theming and standout hospitality.

Whether it’s pitch-side dining, branded suites or interactive entertainment, we’re looking for venues that make the most of their setting while delivering a premium party experience.

The winning stadium will combine the excitement of sport with the sparkle of the season to create a festive celebration like no other.

BEST LATE NIGHT VENUE

This category is for venues where the party doesn’t stop—perfect for teams looking to let their hair down well into the night. From clubs to after-hours lounges and bars, we’re looking for late-night destinations that keep the festive spirit alive.

Judges will assess the facilities, atmosphere and service to ensure a seamless experience. The best late-night venue will combine style, entertainment and energy for an unforgettable end to the evening.

BEST BAR GROUP

This award honours bar groups that consistently deliver outstanding Christmas party experiences across multiple locations.

Whether it’s themed menus, festive cocktails or immersive entertainment, we’re looking for groups that demonstrate consistency, creativity and operational excellence.

Entrants should showcase how they tailor their offering to the season while maintaining brand identity and quality across sites. The winning bar group will be known for festive hospitality, guest satisfaction and a wide-reaching impact on the seasonal party scene.

BEST CATERER

Great catering makes or breaks a festive event. This category recognises caterers who deliver exceptional food, drink, and service across a range of Christmas events. Whether serving intimate dinners or 1,000-guest galas, the best caterers bring creativity, reliability and attention to detail.

Entries should demonstrate seasonal flair, menu innovation, sustainability practices and a seamless guest experience. From canapés to cocktails, the winning caterer will leave a lasting impression through taste, presentation and professionalism.

BEST BESPOKE EVENT

open to both venues and agencies this category is For events that are completely custom-designed and recognises the creativity and planning behind one-of-a-kind Christmas parties.

Whether a brand activation, immersive theme, or highly personalised corporate celebration, we’re looking for events that push boundaries and surprise guests.

Judges will consider the concept, execution, design and guest impact. The best bespoke event should tell a story, create emotion and deliver something utterly unforgettable.

SUSTAINABILITY AWARD

This award celebrates venues, caterers or events that put sustainability at the heart of their festive offering.

From reducing waste and energy use to sourcing locally and giving back to the community, we’re looking for tangible efforts to reduce environmental impact.

Entrants should highlight innovative practices, measurable outcomes, and how sustainability is embedded into their Christmas operations. The winner will inspire others with their commitment to a greener festive season.

BEST CHRISTMAS TEAM

Behind every great party is a great team. This award honours the planners, producers, coordinators and crew who make festive magic happen.

Judges will look for teamwork, dedication, problem-solving and exceptional customer service.

Whether it’s delivering a complex event, excelling in sales and marketing or keeping guests smiling all season long, the best Christmas teams bring passion, positivity, and professionalism to everything they do.

PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARD

Voted for by the public, this award shines a light on the venue OR event that left a lasting impression.

Whether it’s through excellent service, incredible atmosphere or unforgettable experiences, the People’s Choice winner earns its place in the hearts of guests.

ALL FINALISTS ARE ENTERED INTO THIS CATEGORY WITHOUT CHARGE.