Office holiday party checklist 2026
Start about 6 weeks out: set the budget and date, book the space, send invites with an RSVP link, plan food and alcohol-free drinks for everyone, then confirm headcount a week before; Get Gatsby handles the plan, budget, invites, RSVPs and QR check-in.
For adults 18+. Alcohol content is 21+.
Checklist
- Agree the budget and who approves spending
- Pick a date and time (avoid clashing with other holiday plans)
- Choose the space: office, restaurant private room or venue
- Make the guest list (are +1s invited?)
- Send invites with an RSVP link
- Ask about dietary needs and accessibility
- Plan food and drinks, including good non-alcoholic options
- Plan one or two activities (gift swap, awards, photo spot) and keep them optional
- Arrange getting home safely if alcohol is served
- Confirm final headcount with the venue or caterer
- Send a reminder the day before
- Check guests in at the door
Timeline (general guidance)
- 6 weeks out: Budget, date, guest list. Book a venue or caterer; December dates go fast.
- 4–5 weeks out: Send invites with an RSVP link. Ask about dietary needs.
- 3 weeks out: Decide food, drinks and activities. Order decorations.
- 1 week out: Chase missing RSVPs. Confirm headcount with the venue or caterer.
- 1 day before: Send a reminder with time, place and dress code.
- Day of: Set up, check guests in, and thank everyone.
Make it work for everyone (general guidance)
- Offer alcohol-free drinks that feel as special as the bar.
- Hold it during or right after work hours if many people have caregiving duties.
- Keep games and speeches short and optional.
- Label food for common allergies and diets.
Budget (general guidance)
Costs vary widely by city, venue and menu. Start with a per-person number your company is comfortable with, multiply by expected headcount, and keep about 10% aside for surprises. See our party budget per guest guide.
Plan it with Get Gatsby
Get Gatsby builds your office party plan with a budget, guest list, invites, RSVP links, reminders and tasks, plus QR check-in at the door. Free for everyone, unlimited guests (+1s included), no account to start. Is it really free?
Budgets are estimates only.
Timelines, amounts and tips on this page are general guidance, not sourced facts. Adjust them for your crowd.
FAQ
How far ahead should I plan an office holiday party?
As general guidance, start about 6 weeks out so you can book a venue or caterer before December fills up.
When should office holiday party invites go out?
About 4 to 5 weeks before the date, with an RSVP link so you get a headcount early.
How do I make an office party inclusive?
Offer good alcohol-free drinks, keep activities optional, label food for allergies and diets, and pick a time that works for people with caregiving duties.
Can I check guests in at the door with Get Gatsby?
Yes. Get Gatsby includes invites, RSVP links and QR check-in at the door, free for every host.
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