We know, we know it’s not even the end of June yet and we’re talking about Christmas parties! But Best Venues has been inundated with the festive spirit as our members start to enquire about function venues for the silly season. So we thought we’d better join the celebrations and put together a BEST OF guide to Christmas party venues. If you’re not looking yet, then bookmark the “Christmas Party Venue Guide”, so you have a starting point for the future.

If you’re organising the Christmas bash for a big number, then it certainly pays to start thinking about venues and dates now. Many popular conference and function centres book up early, so if you have hundreds of employees shouting about what days they would like to party then get booking! Or alternatively you may need a smaller venue; many restaurants are available for exclusive hire for corporate parties.

This month Best Venues has some suggestions for cocktail-style parties, sit-down dinners, themed events and events on a budget. Check-out the venue specials section on Best Venues to get the best deals for your event.

And if you’re responsible for organising the food and beverage, entertainment and other details we’ll give you some great recommendations on event services that will add value to your event.

Don’t forget that end of financial year events is just around the corner as well. If you need a last minute gift for staff, clients or high achievers then choose a flexible gift certificate from www.bestgiftcertificates.com.au.

We have a fantastic giveaway this month from Allen and Unwin, you could win a copy of Cooking Dirty by Jason Sheehan. Read on to find out more.

NSW, Sydney: For a stylish event that will impress your guests look no further than Blue Diamond Charters. Caters for up to 30 guests with open plan entertaining on three levels.[more]


VIC, Docklands: The versatile space at Waterfront Venues can cater for cocktail parties for up to 500 people with stunning views of Victoria harbour and the city vista, and an undercover terrace.[more]

QLD, Milton: Utilising folding glass doors and innovative smart walls, The Coro can be transformed into a glamorous venue capable of catering for up to 400 guests cocktail in unsurpassed style. [more]

SA, Adelaide: Crowne Plaza Adelaide has five conference rooms with a pre-function area, balcony and a top floor function area which takes in spectacular views of the city and Adelaide Hills. [more]

SIT-DOWN DINNERS

NSW, Sydney: Experience the ultimate ball for your Christmas function at 25th Floor Restaurant with wonderful views of the city. Package includes a 3 course dinner, DJ and decorations for $105pp. Minimum 70pax. [more]

WA, Woodvale: Select a traditional Christmas feast at Moon Reception with a choice of two 3 course menus or a turkey carvery including hot buffet. Prices start at $29.50pp and minimum numbers apply.  [more]

VIC, Flemington: Not just for the races, the Flemington Event Centre can also tailor a spectacular Christmas sit-down dinner in one of its many function rooms. [more]

QLD, Brisbane: Tailored function packages can be arranged at Era Restaurant to suit intimate dinner parties or large corporate dinners for up to 120pax. [more]

TEAM EVENTS – SOMETHING DIFFERENT

NSW: Hold a wine tasting event for your team with The Vine Press; great for memorable Christmas parties. These events can be held in your company boardroom, function room or in a restaurant. [more]

NSW, VIC, WA, ACT & QLD: Do your team like a bit of competition? This Christmas why not arrange a Paintball experience to give your events a difference? Available throughout Australia. [more]

VIC, Melbourne: To the beat of the drum? Arrange a group percussion workshop for your team to get the party started before moving on to a dinner or drinks. [more]

NSW, Sydney: With a range of activities such as cocktail master classes and barista workshops; Mondo Bartenders can create a Christmas event that’ll inspire your team for the new year. [more]

ON A BUDGET

NSW, Sydney: Multi-level function rooms all superbly decorated and only minutes from the CBD. CLUB SWANS has one of the best ballrooms in Sydney, seating up to 300 people. [more]


NSW, Canterbury: Accommodating groups of up to 250 people Canterbury Leagues Club offers a wide range of excellent menus to provide quality function at an affordable price. [more]


NSW, Paddington: Enjoy corporate bowling packages on the weekends at Paddo Bowls Club and combine this with catering in one of its private function rooms. [more]