The Ultimate Guide to Catering Work Holiday Parties That Feel Special
When we discuss corporate catering, most people picture sandwich trays in a conference room or a quick buffet setup between meetings. But catering work holiday parties? That’s a whole different experience. The holiday party catering isn’t just another work event; it’s one of the few times in the year when emails can wait, deadlines don’t matter, and nobody’s talking about KPIs over appetizers.
It’s a chance to slow down, laugh with your team, and celebrate the people who’ve been in the trenches with you all year. That’s why corporate holiday catering needs to feel a little more special. Forget the usual boxed lunches or last-minute pizza orders as this is the time for festive flavors, thoughtful touches, and an experience that makes your team feel appreciated. After all, isn’t that what the holidays are really about?
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to plan catering work holiday parties that are creative, thoughtful, and full of flavor.
Why Good Corporate Holiday Catering Matters
A holiday party is an opportunity to step away from emails and deadlines and focus on what truly matters: people. Sharing a meal has a way of breaking down barriers, sparking conversations, and bringing teams closer together.
The food you serve sets the tone for the entire evening. A well-crafted menu can make employees feel valued, showing them that their hard work hasn’t gone unnoticed. It can also impress clients and partners, leaving them with a positive, lasting impression of your company’s attention to detail.
When you invest in thoughtful corporate holiday catering, you’re creating an atmosphere of connection, celebration, and gratitude.
Put simply, corporate holiday catering isn’t just about filling plates, but about creating moments that make people feel valued.
How to Plan Corporate Holiday Party Catering
Here’s the breakdown for the catering work holiday parties:
Step 1: Start With Your Goals (and Your Budget)
Before you dive into menus and themes, take a step back and ask:
- Who’s the party for? Employees, clients, or both?
- Do you want a relaxed atmosphere or something more upscale?
- Are you picturing a buffet, plated dinner, or fun food stations?
Step 2: Pick a Theme and Catering Style
- Buffet: Great for large groups and a variety of tastes.
- Plated Dinner: Ideal for more formal or intimate events.
- Food Stations: Guests can customize their plates (think taco bars or pasta stations).
- Passed Appetizers: Perfect for cocktail-style gatherings with a mix of mingling and networking.
- Winter Wonderland: Crisp white décor, sparkling lights, and elegant seasonal dishes.
- Comfort & Joy: Classic holiday favorites like roast turkey, mac-and-cheese, and warm apple pie.
- Around the World: International flavors like Mediterranean mezze, Asian-inspired small plates, or Mexican street tacos.
Make it inclusive: Plan for vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and allergy-friendly options to ensure everyone feels considered.
Step 3: Create a Menu That Gets People Talking
Starters & Appetizers
- Mini crab cakes with lemon aioli
- Vegan stuffed mushrooms with fresh herbs
- Colorful charcuterie and cheese boards with seasonal fruits and nuts
Mains & Sides
- Slow-roasted beef tenderloin with red wine glaze
- Cranberry-glazed chicken or balsamic salmon
- Mushroom risotto or stuffed squash for plant-based guests
- Garlic mashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, and honey-glazed carrots
Desserts & Drinks
- Mini cheesecakes, peppermint brownies, or spiced apple crumble
- Signature cocktails (like a cranberry spritz) and festive mocktails
Step 4: Don’t Forget Logistics
- Venue Layout: Make sure there’s space for food stations and free-flowing traffic.
- Timing: Schedule appetizers and drinks first to encourage mingling before dinner.
- Service Level: Buffets are casual; plated meals feel more upscale.
- Equipment Needs: Plan for chafing dishes, serving utensils, and extra napkins.
Step 5: Add Festive Touches That Elevate Your Event
Décor
- Seasonal centerpieces with candles or fresh greenery
- Twinkle lights or lanterns for a warm glow
- Subtle branded touches like custom napkins or signage
Entertainment
- A curated playlist or live acoustic music
- Photo booth with fun holiday props
- Interactive extras like a hot cocoa station or s’mores bar
Guest Takeaways
- Branded mugs or ornaments
- Gourmet snack boxes or mini desserts to-go
Step 6: Plan Ahead and Stay Flexible
- Confirm guest count and dietary needs two weeks before the event.
- Build in a small buffer for unexpected attendees.
- Having a plan for leftovers, donating to a local shelter, or letting employees take some home is always appreciated.
An experienced caterer will help you prepare for the unexpected so you can focus on enjoying the evening.
Ready to Plan a Holiday Party They’ll Rave About?
Planning catering work holiday parties for your team or clients doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right catering, you can create an event that feels effortless and leaves everyone talking about how great it was.
At Urban Cowboy Food, we help companies host holiday events that are thoughtful, delicious, and perfectly suited to their style and budget.
Get a Custom Catering Quote and take the first step toward your best holiday party yet.
Frequently Asked Questions About Catering Work Holiday Parties
The best way to cater a corporate holiday party is to choose a menu that suits your team’s preferences and dietary needs while matching the event style. Consider whether a buffet, plated dinner, or interactive food station will work best for your space and guest count.
Costs can vary depending on the menu, service style, and location. On average, corporate holiday party catering ranges from $15 to $45 per person. Buffets and drop-off catering are more budget-friendly, while plated dinners with full service tend to be on the premium side.
A well-rounded holiday corporate catering menu includes appetizers, mains, sides, desserts, and beverages. Popular choices include roasted meats, vegetarian entrées, seasonal sides like Brussels sprouts and mashed potatoes, and festive desserts such as mini cheesecakes or spiced apple crumble.
It’s best to book your corporate holiday event catering at least 4 to 6 weeks in advance. This gives you time to finalize the guest list, choose a menu, and secure your preferred date with the caterer.
Yes! Most professional caterers offer vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and allergy-friendly options. When planning your work holiday party catering, be sure to communicate any dietary restrictions to your caterer early on so they can prepare inclusive menu options.