10 Unique Christmas Party Ideas for 2025

Christmas is coming and it's full of my favourite colour, Scarlett ♥️

That means people are getting booking their Christmas parties. But how many have you been to that are completely bland and predictable. They are the boiled sprouts to a Christmas dinner.

The same DJ, the same cheesy playlist, the same polite dance floor shuffle. If you’re planning your 2025 Christmas event and want to make it truly stand out, it’s time to think beyond the usual.

Parties should make people feel relaxed and entertained, so they feel comfortable to have a good time and just enjoy the event. Some people need icebreakers or hate getting on the dancefloor. Having live performance is a great way to start connections between people, and will set your event apart from the many parties most of us will attend.

Here are ten unique Christmas party entertainment ideas that will turn your celebration into the most talked-about event of the season, and make sure you have some fun too. (The party planner is always missed out!)

Here are some suggestions for a party filled with glamour, laughter, unique entertainment and unforgettable energy.

Burlesque or Showgirl Performance

Surprise! I'm biased. 🤗 Add vintage sophistication and playful sparkle to your Christmas party with a burlesque dancer or classic showgirl act. The costumes, elegance and big band swing music is perfect for Christmas! It just has that festive feel. Think feathers, sequins, big bands, blues and golds, ribbons and old-Hollywood charm. Burlesque at your Christmas party will add a blend of elegance and fun that brings your guests right into the golden age of cabaret.

Whether it’s a solo routine or a group performance, burlesque adds the perfect balance of artistry and a sprinkle of tantalising excitement for a night your guests will never forget.

Don't forget, burlesque acts can be family-friendly! Just make sure the showgirl knows who the audience will be.

Magicians or Mentalists

What is Christmas without some magic?

I have worked with some of the best magicians in the world at The Oracle. Magic up close is just something else. People gasp, are charmed and go away telling their friends about it. A roving magician who performs at tables can create surprise and connection. It’s the perfect icebreaker to get everyone laughing and mingling, so it's perfect for corporate events.

Live Jazz or Swing Band

Swap out your DJ for a live swing or jazz band to instantly elevate your party atmosphere. It's so much better. There's nothing like live music!

Nothing gets people smiling faster than the sound of brass and big-band beats striking up and getting the party going.

Aerial or Circus Performers

This is one for bigger budgets, safety rigging and high ceilings. But if you just happen to be hosting your Christmas party in a large venue, make the most of it!

Add a touch of spectacle with aerial silk artists, fire breathers or stilt walkers. Some also become living snow globes which always looks beautiful. These acts transform any venue into a festive wonderland and give guests something to marvel at throughout the evening.

Comedy or Cabaret Host

A charismatic cabaret-style host can guide your guests through the night, and again is another great option for events where you need an icebreaker. Hosts bring their vibrant personality, introduce acts and keeping the energy flowing. Combine this with live performers, burlesque, musicians or singers, for a truly theatrical experience that feels well-rounded and presented with that extra touch of excellence and class.

Themed Photo Booth or Glamour Portrait Station

Ditch the cheesy props and go for a vintage-inspired photo booth with art deco styling, feather backdrops and warm lighting. Offer guests the chance to pose like old-Hollywood icons and leave with beautiful keepsake portraits.

Interactive Cocktail or Champagne Hour

Hire mixologists to craft bespoke holiday cocktails or run a festive champagne-tasting station. It’s interactive, social and adds a layer of luxury to your evening.

Dance or Charleston Lesson

Start your event with a quick dance workshop! It forces people out of their comfort zone and a good teacher will make sure everyone has a great time with it. The Charleston or a bit of swing dance is fun, easy to learn and guaranteed to get guests in the mood for a roaring celebration. You won't need to worry about trying to get people up to dance as any shyness will have gone out of the window.

Live Painter or Caricaturist

Bring an artist to capture your guests or the evening’s highlights in real time. A live painter or caricaturist provides both entertainment and memorable souvenirs. They can paint in colour or do quick sketches, but guests will love having such a unique takeaway.

Holiday Drag or Variety Cabaret

You could use live performance as the showstopper at the end of the night. It's a brilliant way to end the evening with a flourish! A festive drag cabaret or variety show full of glamour, wit and sparkle can be a set that sets your party apart. Combine this with burlesque or live vocals for an unforgettable grand finale.

Make It Unforgettable

A friend recently said to me that they wished Christmas felt the way it used to. How sad!! I asked what they meant, and they said "It used to feel magical".

Okay so, we don't sit on Santa's lap and believe in Christmas magic (oh let me add Santa strippers back to the list!)

The best Christmas parties are the ones that feel magical, where every guest is surprised, delighted and drawn into the atmosphere.

Whether you choose a burlesque act, a vintage showgirl performance or a full cabaret evening, live entertainment transforms your event into something extraordinary.