Whether it’s the office Christmas party, a summer social, an awards night or a conference dinner, the entertainment is what turns a work event into one people talk about for months. Here are our favourite ideas – and how to choose the right one for your team.
First, know your crowd
Before picking an act, think about:
- Who’s coming – numbers, age range and how well people know each other.
- The format – seated dinner, standing reception, awards or a full party.
- The goal – a thank-you, a celebration, team bonding or impressing clients.
- The venue – space, power, sound limits and finish time.
Get these right and the choice of entertainment becomes much easier.
12 corporate entertainment ideas that work
1. A party band
The classic for a reason. A great party band playing hits from every decade gets everyone from the apprentices to the board on the dance floor.
2. Tribute acts
From ABBA to Take That, tribute bands and acts are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and perfect for themed parties.
3. A stand-up comedian or comedy host
A clean, corporate-savvy comedian is ideal after dinner or as host for an awards night. More on this in our guide to booking a comedian for your event.
4. Close-up and walkabout magic
Magicians and walkabout acts are the perfect icebreaker during arrival drinks, especially when colleagues from different teams don’t know each other.
5. Swing, Rat Pack and jazz
For a black-tie dinner or a classy Christmas do, a swing and Rat Pack band or jazz band sets a stylish tone.
6. Soul and Motown
Big, brassy and impossible not to dance to – soul and Motown bands are a favourite for Christmas parties.
7. A DJ
A professional party DJ keeps the energy up all night and takes requests – a cost-effective choice for larger events.
8. Celebrity appearances
Want real “wow” factor? Celebrities, reality stars and celebrity bands make an event unforgettable – and great for social media.
9. After-dinner speakers
For conferences and awards, an after-dinner speaker can inspire, entertain and tie into your company message.
10. Elegant background music
For receptions and networking, pianists, violinists, saxophonists or classical guitarists add atmosphere without drowning out conversation.
11. Decade-themed nights
A 70s, 80s or 90s theme with a matching band gives everyone an excuse to dress up and makes planning easy.
12. Interactive extras
Photo booths and caricaturists give guests something to do between courses – and a souvenir to take home.
Planning a Christmas party? Book now
December is the busiest month of the year for corporate entertainment. Friday and Saturday dates in the first three weeks of December go first, so the earlier you book, the more choice you’ll have. If you’re planning for next year, it’s worth securing your act in the summer.
Tip: early December weekdays and January “Christmas” parties are increasingly popular – and often better value.
Simple tips for a great event
- Keep it inclusive. Make sure acts know the audience, so content stays appropriate.
- Plan the running order. Speeches and awards before the party, not halfway through it.
- Mix it up. A magician at arrivals, a comedian after dinner and a band to finish keeps energy high all night.
- Check the venue’s rules on sound limits, access and finish times early.
- Use one agency. One point of contact, one invoice, and a back-up plan if an act is unwell.
Talk to the Jokers team
We’ve been providing entertainment for corporate events across the UK for 20 years, working with some of the country’s biggest leisure and hospitality brands. Browse our full range of corporate entertainment, or tell us about your event and we’ll come back with ideas that fit your budget.
Call us on 0208 016 9581 or email sales@jokerscomedy.co.uk.