Christmas Party Ideas For The Festive Season

Christmas Party Ideas For The Festive Season

Christmas is fast approaching, and it’s time to start organizing catch-ups with friends and family and making plans for the office Christmas party. If you’ve left your Christmas party planning a little late this year, don’t worry – we’ve got some fantastic options for Christmas party ideas that everyone from your boss to your great aunt will love.

Interestingly, in 2022 alone, Australians spent $66.8 billion during the pre-Christmas period, an increase of 6.4% from the previous year. This reflects how Australians are embracing festive celebrations again post-pandemic, particularly in hospitality and food sectors, with hospitality spending surging by 25.7% (Roy Morgan)(Australian Retailers Association).

Christmas Spending in Australia: Key Trends for 2022

Total Pre-Christmas Sales

$66.8 billion spent in the pre-Christmas period, a 6.4% increase from the previous year.

Top Spending Categories

  • Food: $26.2 billion (7.6% increase)
  • Hospitality: $9.8 billion (25.7% increase)
  • Department Stores: $3.5 billion (9.1% increase)

Key Regional Growth

  • Queensland: 8.8% increase in retail sales
  • New South Wales: 9.2% increase in retail sales
  • South Australia: 10.3% increase in retail sales

Average Christmas Gift Spending Per Person

$470 spent on average by Australians during the festive season.

Popular Trends

  • Casual Gatherings: Increased spending on after-work drinks and casual parties
  • Experience-Based Gifts: 90% of Australians prefer meaningful experiences over expensive gifts

This infographic highlights some of the most interesting Christmas spending trends in Australia from 2022, offering insights into how Australians celebrate the festive season.

  1. Total Pre-Christmas Sales: Australians spent a staggering $66.8 billion during the pre-Christmas period, which marked a 6.4% increase from the previous year. This record-breaking number reflects the nation’s enthusiasm for Christmas and its return to in-person celebrations after the pandemic.

  2. Top Spending Categories: Food and hospitality were major drivers of spending, with food-related purchases reaching $26.2 billion, showing a 7.6% increase. The hospitality sector, which includes dining out and social gatherings, experienced a significant 25.7% jump, illustrating Australians’ renewed love for eating out and celebrating together. Department store spending also saw a 9.1% increase, driven by festive gift shopping.

  3. Regional Growth: Queensland, New South Wales, and South Australia experienced the fastest retail growth. Queensland saw an 8.8% increase, while New South Wales and South Australia experienced growth rates of 9.2% and 10.3%, respectively, reflecting heightened consumer activity in these states.

  4. Average Gift Spending: On average, each Australian spent $470 on Christmas gifts, making Christmas the largest celebration in terms of spending, far exceeding other occasions like birthdays or weddings. This aligns with the broader trend of Australians prioritizing meaningful and thoughtful gifts, often opting for personal or experiential presents.

  5. Popular Trends: Casual gatherings and experience-based gifts continue to rise in popularity. Australians increasingly prefer social experiences over material goods, with 90% favoring meaningful experiences over expensive gifts. Whether it’s after-work drinks or casual BBQs, the focus has shifted towards creating lasting memories rather than splurging on luxury items.

This data offers a glimpse into how Australian spending habits during the festive season reflect broader societal trends, such as a preference for experiences over possessions and the importance of food and hospitality in bringing people together to celebrate. These insights can help businesses, event planners, and individuals prepare for the upcoming Christmas season by aligning their offerings with consumer preferences.

Christmas Party Idea: Long Luncheon

Organize a traditional lunch for your Christmas party. At Fire Cue, you can book a lunchtime function, and have the entire restaurant all to yourself while you and your guests indulge in an exotic blend of Australian and Latin American flavors.

This idea ties into a broader trend where food-related spending, especially on dining out, reached $26.2 billion in the 2022 pre-Christmas period, making it one of the largest areas of festive expenditure (Roy Morgan)(Australian Retailers Association).

Christmas Party Idea: Dinner

A Christmas dinner party might sound a little old hat, but with the right combination of food and styling, it’s anything but. Our incredible dinner menu will have your guests all fired up! Enjoy the cool contemporary atmosphere of our dining area, help yourself to an incredible variety of rustic charcoal barbecue dishes, and soak up the festive vibes.

Hospitality is a big draw during the festive season, and this is evident as restaurants and cafes saw an 8.9% rise in trade year-on-year in November (Australian Retailers Association).

Christmas Party Idea: Dress Up Cocktail Party

The festive season is the perfect excuse to get a little fancy. Why not hire a private function room to host your Christmas party? Tell your guests to dress up and spend a magical evening eating a fabulous selection of foods and drinking flaming cocktails shaken up by experienced and professional bartenders.

Alcoholic beverages and cocktail events have become popular Christmas party choices, especially after pandemic-related restrictions were lifted. This can be reflected in the overall growth in hospitality and entertainment spending, which saw significant jumps during this period (Roy Morgan).

Christmas Party Idea: Lamb on the Spit

If you’ve got a big clan to catch up with at Christmas, be sure no one goes hungry with our special lamb on a spit. Gather your loved ones to enjoy family and food the way Latin Americans do.

Christmas Party Idea: After Work Drinks

If you’re searching for casual Christmas party ideas, after-work drinks might be perfect for you. We are well known for our exciting list of fiery cocktails from all over the world. Keep everyone’s hunger at bay by ordering some casual share platters to pass around and ensure everyone stays standing a few cocktails in.

Drinks and casual gatherings have grown increasingly popular, especially as Australians spend more on outdoor and relaxed settings like bars. The rise in spending on such hospitality categories saw $9.8 billion in pre-Christmas sales (Roy Morgan) (Australian Retailers Association).

 

Christmas Party Idea: Paintball

Gather the troops and set out for the day to paintball. Build a team of allies and team up to compete against your rivals. Paintball is the perfect escape from reality and will bring everyone together for a little Christmas spirit.

Outdoor activity-based parties, such as paintball, have been gaining momentum, especially as Australians focus on experience-based gifts. Research shows that meaningful and practical gifts, including fun experiences, are preferred by 90% of Australians over expensive or prestigious items (Suncorp Group). Organizing a day out with a unique experience like paintball fits perfectly within this trend.

Christmas Party Idea: BBQ Cook Up

Who doesn’t love a good BBQ? Bring everyone together and enjoy a mouth-watering BBQ feast. Keep it simple or cook up a variety of tasty options for you and your guests to enjoy while you celebrate the festive season.

Outdoor gatherings like BBQs resonate with Australians’ love for casual and relaxed settings. As BBQ and outdoor food-related spending have been on the rise, Christmas is a perfect opportunity to indulge in this tradition. For example, food-related retail hit $26.2 billion in pre-Christmas sales (Roy Morgan) (Australian Retailers Association).

Christmas Party Idea: Picnic at Your Favourite Spot

Know the perfect picnic spot you have been dying to show everyone? A Christmas party is the perfect time to introduce everyone to your special spot. Ask everyone to bring their favourite dish and there will be food to last you all a week! Pick a nice, sunny day and enjoy everyone’s company in the fresh air.

Interestingly, during the 2022 festive season, Australians spent significantly on outdoor leisure activities, with events like picnics aligning well with the nation’s love for outdoor dining (Roy Morgan). It’s a low-cost yet meaningful option, especially since personal and practical gifts tend to hold greater value for many Australians (Suncorp Group).

Christmas Party Idea: Hot Chocolate and a Fire Pit

Hot chocolate is very fitting for a Christmas party. Choose a nice cool evening, gather everyone around the fire pit outside, and enjoy a nice warm cup of hot chocolate. Tell stories and catch up with everyone at this low-cost Christmas catch-up.

Comfort and warmth are always in demand during Christmas. This idea taps into the more personal and intimate ways to celebrate the season, especially as 56% of Australians express a preference for gifts or gatherings that reflect thoughtfulness and connection (Suncorp Group).

Christmas Party Idea: Lunch on the Beach

I don’t think this Christmas party idea needs much convincing. Take a trip to the beach and enjoy the crashing waves and sand between your toes. You could order a great selection of seafood and chips to enjoy while you spend the day together on the sandy shore.

Beach gatherings are a quintessential Australian tradition, and seafood consumption spikes around Christmas, particularly in coastal cities. Pre-Christmas food spending reflects this, with seafood being a major part of the $26.2 billion food category (Roy Morgan). Australians have long associated beach and seafood feasts with the festive season.

Christmas Party Idea: Throw A Christmas Banquet

Host a festive feast with family and friends. Indulge in a banquet menu featuring smoked spice chicken wings, barramundi tacos, and glazed beef ribs.

Banquets are an ideal choice for those looking to indulge in more lavish Christmas celebrations. As food is consistently one of the top expenses during the Christmas season, with a 7.6% increase year-on-year in 2022, indulging in a large banquet will be a great way to bring everyone together (Roy Morgan).

Christmas Party Idea: Indulge In Steak Night

While prawns are classic for Christmas Day, a great Christmas party idea is treating your crew to a top-quality steak! Celebrate your Christmas party and enjoy a wagyu rump cap at your favourite steak restaurant.

Meat, particularly premium cuts like wagyu, is a staple for many Australians during festive celebrations. Spending on specialty dining experiences has increased as consumers embrace post-pandemic freedom (Australian Retailers Association).

Christmas Party Idea: Host A Cocktail Party

For a more casual and lower-cost affair, consider a standing cocktail party this Christmas. Indulge in an exotic selection of seasonal canapés, share plates, and finger food, and set up a bar tab for your guests to enjoy the silly season.

Cocktail parties continue to be a popular choice for more informal gatherings. Australians have returned to bars and restaurants with enthusiasm, as hospitality spending saw a 25.7% rise in 2022 (Roy Morgan). Hosting a cocktail party aligns perfectly with this resurgence in social dining.

Christmas Party Idea: Throw A Xmas Taco Fiesta

A fiesta is a fun and lively last-minute Christmas party idea! Tuesdays are taco night when achiote chicken, braised beef brisket, and battered fish are dished up in hand-pressed tacos for everyone to enjoy.

This type of celebration is perfect for small gatherings where people can enjoy varied, flavorful food at a low cost. As the preference for practical and experiential gifts grows, more Australians are opting for informal food events (Suncorp Group).

Christmas Party Idea: Dig Into Some Christmas Ribs

If you’re saving yourself for the seafood smorgasbord on Christmas Day, why not get stuck into ribs as a delicious Christmas party idea? Choose from free-range pork or premium beef ribs; marinated and slow-cooked before being finished over coals, they’re a real crowd-pleaser for a tasty Christmas party.

Australians are big on BBQ and grilled meats, and ribs are no exception. Spending on food and beverage services increased significantly during the Christmas period, with a 7.6% year-on-year rise in food spending (Roy Morgan). BBQ ribs and similar grilled options are perfect for a casual yet indulgent Christmas get-together.

Christmas Party Style Guide

Can’t you hear those sleigh bells jingling? Don’t worry, you’re not suffering from tinnitus; it’s just the sound of your corporate Christmas party coming up fast. Don’t let the silly season sneak up on you this year – start planning your Christmas party with our special guide.

In Australia, corporate events and office Christmas parties are essential for employee morale, and spending in the hospitality sector—particularly for corporate Christmas events—increased significantly in 2022. The hospitality industry benefited from a 25.7% increase as Australians flocked back to in-person gatherings (Roy Morgan) (Australian Retailers Association).

Office Christmas Party Ideas

The shops have been stocking advent calendars since October, and you’ve heard ‘All I Want for Christmas is My Two Front Teeth’ so many times you’re beginning to understand why someone knocked them out in the first place. Yes, Christmas is coming, and with it comes the grizzly task of planning your end-of-year celebration. But if the thought of locking down another boring event has got you saying ‘humbug,’ let our friendly team help you find your Christmas cheer with our top Christmas party ideas.

Charity Ball

Elegant, timeless, and a great opportunity to give back to the community, spread some Christmas cheer to those who need it most with a black-and-white-themed charity ball. Entertain your clients with a cocktail and canapé soirée complete with a silent charity auction, then donate all the proceeds to a cause that’s close to your company’s heart.

Hosting charity events during the festive season resonates with many Australians. Consumer sentiment around the holidays tends to lean towards generosity and thoughtfulness, with 90% of Australians preferring gifts or events that are personal and meaningful rather than expensive (Suncorp Group).

Team Planning Session and Surprise Party

The year may be winding down, but that’s no reason for work to stop, right? Yeah, your employees aren’t going to like that line either, which is why springing a last-minute team planning session to strategize for the year ahead is going to go down like a lead balloon—until you reveal that it’s a surprise Christmas party complete with an open bar, food platters, and a live DJ. The look on their faces will be priceless… if they don’t commit mutiny beforehand.

Christmas Roast

Got a soft spot for a family tradition? Then why not treat your very own urban family to a traditional Christmas roast with all the trimmings? Gather up the whole office and sit down to a decadent long lunch complete with matching wines and Christmas crackers. Swap your “ho, ho, ho” for “ha, ha, ha” as you bring in the silly season with friends.

In 2022, long lunches and traditional meals continued to be a staple of Christmas gatherings in Australia, with food services seeing significant spending increases. Australians spent $26.2 billion on food alone during the pre-Christmas period (Roy Morgan).

Ping Pong Tournament

It’s the latest trend to hit the Christmas party circuit, and we’re jumping on board! Yes, it’s time to give your end-of-year function some serious balls with a ping-pong tournament. Finally, the feud between HR and IT can be settled once and for all without resorting to blows. But be warned—challenging your boss to a round after too many rounds? That’s a paddling.

Christmas Party Idea: After Work Drinks

Tight on time and even tighter on budget? Send the silly season off the easy way with a casual after-work catch-up at the bar with your favourite colleagues.

This type of casual gathering has become increasingly popular, especially with Australians’ growing preference for low-key, experience-based events. Spending on hospitality services, such as casual drinks and dining, increased by 25.7% in 2022, reflecting the nation’s renewed love for socialising post-pandemic (Roy Morgan) (Australian Retailers Association).

 

Corporate Christmas Party Themes

Christmas parties are all about celebrating the year’s achievements, and Australians tend to go all out on corporate events. Corporate hospitality saw a huge boom in 2022, with many businesses looking to reconnect with employees through in-person events, driving the demand for unique and engaging party themes (Roy Morgan). Here are some of the most popular ones:

Make It a Masquerade

Give your party a dark and mysterious feeling with lots of gold tones, dark corners, and mood lighting. Score some added style points with your very own romantic balcony overlooking the city—perfect for a stylish end-of-year party.

When it comes to masquerade balls, elegant and exclusive venues have been in high demand, with event spaces filling up fast during the festive season. The hospitality sector saw a massive 25.7% increase in spending, and themed corporate events are a key driver (Roy Morgan) (Australian Retailers Association).

Dreaming of a White Christmas?

Who cares if it’s 35 degrees outside? Nothing says “Christmas” quite like a winter wonderland! Turn up the air con, hire an ice sculpture, and transform your function space into a snowy escape.

The idea of creating a winter wonderland has been trending in corporate event themes, especially as Australians enjoy the novelty of replicating a northern hemisphere Christmas. With more people willing to splurge on creative event themes, spending on décor and theming has increased (Suncorp Group).

Christmas Circus

Escape the corporate circus and become the ringleader of your very own Christmas circus instead! Recreate the big-top feeling with lots of red accents and fun lighting.

The popularity of quirky and unique themes like circus parties reflects Australians’ growing preference for experiential gifts and events(Suncorp Group). These types of parties tap into the trend of offering something memorable rather than material gifts.

A Very Beachy Christmas

Give your party a tropical edge with your very own beach party (minus the sand). Beach-themed parties are perfect for the Australian summer, where outdoor BBQs and casual get-togethers are a natural fit for the season. With food and drink as top priorities, hospitality spending for beach and outdoor-themed parties skyrocketed in 2022 (Roy Morgan).

Christmas All Around the World

Why not celebrate your team’s diverse cultural backgrounds with a Christmas Around the World party? Incorporate traditional foods, décor, and customs from different countries.

In a country as culturally diverse as Australia, this party theme resonates strongly. The rise of multicultural events reflects the increasing demand for more inclusive and globally inspired Christmas celebrations (Roy Morgan(Suncorp Group).

Christmas Party Game Ideas

Hey, planning the perfect Christmas party can be tricky. Sometimes your guests are more naughty than nice (we’re looking at you, questionably handsy Santa), the egg nog takes more casualties than you’d intended, or the catering’s a flop, and you all spend the evening crowded around some decidedly un-festive hummus.

Here’s the good news: no matter how the rest turns out, you can turn a Christmas party into the season to be jolly with a good holiday game.

Christmas Party Game 1: Ornament Guess

Ho-ho-how many do you think? Round your guests up for an ice-breaker game. Everyone guesses how many ornaments they think are on the tree (no long-winded counting sessions, guys), and puts their guess on a piece of paper. Once the arrival cocktails are done with, the winner is announced and the gift-giving begins with a prize. Take that, Secret Santa

Christmas Party Game 2: White Elephant

If you think Secret Santa’s been so done to death that even Rudolph wouldn’t fly him, it’s time to switch things up. For White Elephant, everyone brings in a gift (with a price limit to keep things even), and guests pick things out of a communal pile.

Now, keep your eye on Gus from Trade Services, ‘cause this is where things get serious. Every guest takes their turn, either picking a gift off the table, or stealing a previous gift someone has already unwrapped. Once someone has stolen your gift, you can pick a new one off thetable or steal an existing gift. The game ends once all the gifts on the table have been taken (and everyone’s seriously craving a post-game whisky).

Christmas Party Game 3: Candy Cane Relay

Forget the sweet-talk under the mistletoe: here’s the real party treat. Challenge guests to take as many candy canes out of a bowl as you can in 60 seconds. The catch? You have to use a candy cane in your mouth to fish them out. Whether you’re celebrating with coworkers or kids at the family festivities, this is sure to be a hit.

Christmas Party Game 4: Holiday ABC

Annnnnd break! Split into teams and let’s get quizzical. With the alphabet written vertically down pieces of paper, challenge everyone to write a holiday word starting with each letter. First team to finish wins!

Christmas Party Game 5: Message under a plate

Planning a Christmas feast? Surprise your dinner party guests with messages under their plates. On hidden slips of paper, write strange phrases each guest needs to casually fit into the conversation without being caught. If you accuse someone of using their phrase, and you’re wrong, you’re out of the game.

Get ready for some really weird conversations about purple monkey dishwashers.

Unique Christmas Gift Ideas for Everyone on Your List

From thoughtful keepsakes to fun gadgets, these gift ideas for Christmas will make your holiday shopping a breeze.

Xmas Gifts For the Pet Lovers

Hampaws Silicon Lick Mat

Hampaws Silicon Lick Mat

Price: $9

Looking for unique Christmas gift ideas for pet owners? The Hampaws Silicon Lick Mat is a fantastic choice for any dog or cat lover. Made of high-quality silicone, this mat provides mental stimulation and reduces anxiety in pets. It’s hand washable and designed in Australia, making it a practical and thoughtful present. Ideal for keeping furry friends entertained during the festive season.

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DIY Cross Stitch Dog Collar

DIY Cross Stitch Dog Collar

Price: $19

For the crafty pet owner, the DIY Cross Stitch Dog Collar offers a fun project and a personalised accessory for their furry friend. The kit includes needles, colourful threads, and a white cotton collar. It’s a great way to combine creativity with love for their pet. This is one of those cool Christmas gifts that stands out.

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Thoughtful Keepsakes

Christmas Friend Keepsake

Christmas Friend Keepsake

Price: $10

Show your appreciation to a dear friend with the Christmas Friend Keepsake. This festive ceramic ornament features a 3D embossed design and a heartfelt message. It’s perfect for hanging on the Christmas tree and will remind them of your friendship every year. A unique Christmas gift idea that adds a personal touch.

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Christmas True Spirit Keepsake

Christmas True Spirit Keepsake

Price: $10

Embrace the essence of the festive season with the Christmas True Spirit Keepsake. Inscribed with the message “The true spirit of Christmas is love”, this ornament is a beautiful reminder of what the holidays are all about. It’s an interesting Christmas gift for family and friends.

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Christmas Family Keepsake

Christmas Family Keepsake

Price: $10

Celebrate family connections with the Christmas Family Keepsake. This ceramic ornament features a lovely design and comes with a ribbon for hanging. It’s a thoughtful way to express love and keep family close, even when they’re far away. A perfect addition to your list of gift ideas for Xmas.

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Gifts for Book and Music Lovers

Illuminature Visual Book

Illuminature Visual Book

Price: $39

The Illuminature Visual Book is an enchanting gift for young explorers aged 9 to 11. This interactive book lets kids discover the world’s ecosystems through three different lenses, revealing nocturnal creatures, daytime animals, and plant life. It’s an interesting Christmas gift that educates and entertains.

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The Little Book of Gin

The Little Book of Gin

Price: $18

For the gin enthusiast, The Little Book of Gin offers a delightful mix of history, trivia, and cocktail recipes. It’s a compact hardcover that’s perfect for anyone who enjoys a good tipple. A cool Christmas gift that adds a touch of class to any home bar.

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The Harry Styles Colouring Book

The Harry Styles Colouring Book

Price: $20

Delight the Harry Styles fan in your life with The Harry Styles Colouring Book. Featuring over 100 pages of designs, song lyrics, and quotes, it’s perfect for relaxation and mindfulness. A unique Christmas gift idea for teens and adults alike.

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Pampering and Relaxation Gifts

Luxury Bath Soak By K2 Salt Co

Luxury Bath Soak By K2 Salt Co

Price: $19

Help someone unwind with the Luxury Bath Soak by K2 Salt Co. Enriched with French pink clay, Ylang Ylang essential oil, and pink Himalayan mineral salts, it’s the perfect way to relax after a long day. Ideal for anyone needing a bit of pampering, making it a thoughtful Christmas gift idea.

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Spa & Recharge Hamper

Spa & Recharge Hamper

Price: $149

The Spa & Recharge Hamper is the ultimate indulgence for someone special. Featuring luxury bath products, toffee popcorn brittle, a scented candle, and a cosmetic bag, it’s designed for complete relaxation. This hamper is one of those unique Christmas gifts that will make them feel truly appreciated.

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Gourmet Gifts for Foodies

Picnic Wine Holder Set

Picnic Wine Holder Set

Price: $29

Elevate outdoor gatherings with the Picnic Wine Holder Set. This practical set includes holders for wine glasses and a bottle, perfect for preventing spills on the beach or in the park. It’s a cool Christmas gift for couples and wine lovers who enjoy picnics and outdoor events.

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Mezzaluna Chopper & Board

Mezzaluna Chopper & Board

Price: $24

The Mezzaluna Chopper & Board is a must-have for home chefs. This clever tool makes chopping herbs and vegetables a breeze. It’s a practical addition to any kitchen and a fantastic gift idea for Xmas for those who love to cook.

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Stylish Accessories

Personalised Solid Bar Pendant Necklace

Personalised Solid Bar Pendant Necklace

Price: $69

Give a personal touch with the Personalised Solid Bar Pendant Necklace. Engrave up to four sides with names or messages. Available in gold, silver, or rose gold finish, it’s a beautiful piece for someone special. An excellent unique Christmas gift idea that they’ll cherish.

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Louenhide Kasey Black Crossbody Bag

Louenhide Kasey Black Crossbody Bag

Price: $89

The Louenhide Kasey Black Crossbody Bag is both stylish and practical. With two detachable straps and multiple pockets, it’s perfect for everyday use. A great Christmas gift idea for fashion-forward individuals who appreciate functionality.

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Fun and Novelty Gifts

Inflatable Sumo Costume

Inflatable Sumo Costume

Price: $69

Add laughter to the holidays with the Inflatable Sumo Costume. This hilarious costume inflates with a portable fan and is sure to be a hit at any party. A cool Christmas gift for those who love to entertain and have fun.

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USB Desktop Plasma Ball

USB Desktop Plasma Ball

Price: $30

The USB Desktop Plasma Ball brings a touch of science and magic to any desk. Mesmerising to watch, it’s a unique gadget that appeals to all ages. An interesting Christmas gift for the curious minds on your list.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Christmas Party Ideas

Planning a Christmas party on a budget doesn’t mean sacrificing fun. Here are some tips to help keep costs down:

  • Set a Budget: Stick to a clear limit for decorations, food, and drinks to avoid overspending.
  • DIY Decorations: Craft your own festive ornaments or ask guests to help make them.
  • Potluck Style: Encourage guests to bring a dish or drinks, which can help reduce catering costs.
  • Non-Alcoholic Drinks: Serve creative mocktails or soft drinks, as non-alcoholic options are growing in popularity in Australia (BizziEvents).
  • Affordable Venues: Consider public spaces like parks or beaches for free or low-cost venues (Eventbrite).

Australians have a variety of great venues for Christmas parties, including:

  • Beach Locations: Bondi Beach in Sydney or the Gold Coast are perfect for casual BBQs and outdoor activities.
  • Rooftop Bars: Many cities like Melbourne and Brisbane offer stunning rooftop venues that are ideal for cocktail parties.
  • Private Dining Rooms: Restaurants in Australia, from Sydney’s fine dining establishments to more casual Brisbane locales, offer private spaces for intimate Christmas dinners.
  • Boat Cruises: Celebrate on the water with boat tours available in cities like Sydney and Perth (TeamDays) (Eventbrite).

What are some fun games and activities for a Christmas party?

Christmas parties are more fun when filled with engaging activities. Some great ideas include:

  • White Elephant Gift Exchange: A fun gift-swapping game where guests “steal” or pick new gifts from a pile.
  • Karaoke: Set up a karaoke machine and sing classic Christmas carols or popular holiday tunes.
  • Treasure Hunt: Organize a Christmas-themed scavenger hunt with small prizes hidden around the venue.
  • Outdoor Games: If hosting an outdoor party, games like ring toss or bocce are perfect for keeping guests entertained (Christmas in Australia) (BizziEvents).

Christmas in Australia is celebrated in summer, which brings a unique twist to traditional celebrations. Some key differences include:

  • Outdoor Celebrations: Australians often head to the beach or host outdoor BBQs with seafood, especially prawns, as a Christmas feast favorite.
  • Christmas Carols by Candlelight: This long-standing tradition involves communities gathering outdoors to sing Christmas carols by candlelight.
  • Festive Food: Instead of a heavy roast dinner, Australians opt for cold seafood platters, pavlovas, and summer fruits (Christmas in Australia) (Eventbrite).