Company Christmas party: before or after the holidays?

It’s the question that divides HR managers and leadership every single year: When is the best time for the Christmas party?

Should you host it before the holidays when the festive spirit is at its peak, or in the New Year when the chaos has subsided and everyone is recharged? We have a clear answer for you, but first, let’s look at both sides of the coin.

The December Party: Festive Magic

The December date has undeniable charm. The air smells of mulled wine, carols are playing, and that true holiday vibe is everywhere. Employees are looking forward to Christmas and more importantly, their time off making the party a great way to unwind and congratulate each other on another successful year.

But... The reality is often a bit different. December is a marathon: closing projects, deadline after deadline, gift shopping, and family commitments. Employees are pulled in a dozen directions at once, and another "mandatory" event (even a fun one) can sometimes be the final straw. Plus, you’re competing for dates with half of Prague; prices skyrocket, and the best venues are booked months in advance.

And there’s one more detail: Half the team is usually counting down the minutes until they can head home to wrap gifts or they simply get hit by the seasonal flu.

The January Party: A Fresh Start

Now imagine January, quiet, peaceful, almost meditative. Did you know that January is often the slowest month of the year in terms of productivity? It’s called the "January Blues" - a combination of winter fatigue and the post-holiday slump. People return from vacation, slowly getting back into the rhythm, searching for motivation.

This is exactly where your January party works like a miracle. The rush is over, the pressure is off, and the team returns rested. No one is stressing about whether they bought enough presents or when the in-laws are arriving. Instead, everyone sits at the table, chatting calmly, laughing, and enjoying their colleagues' company without the stress.

The added benefits?

• Better Prices: Restaurants and venues aren't overcrowded.
• Availability: You get to pick the best dates, the best spaces, and the best menus.
• True Presence: People actually want to be there; they aren't just showing up out of obligation.
• New Year Energy: The party acts as a "restart" and provides motivation for the year ahead.

At Catermat, we believe in peace...

...which is why we prefer January corporate parties. Not because we don’t love Christmas, but because we believe in events where people truly connect. Where there is no rush, no stress, and no fatigue. Where the food tastes better because you can actually savor it.

A January party isn't a "Christmas substitute." It’s a standalone event that gives your team exactly what they need in the middle of winter: a light in the dark, great company, excellent food, and a reason to smile.

What do you think?

Try doing it differently this year. Leave December for family and personal traditions. Then, meet up in January, relaxed, smiling, and with the finest catering we can prepare for your team.

Interested in a January corporate party? Get in touch, and together we’ll design an event that is exactly what you need - stress-free, full of care, and at the perfect time.