• September 24, 2024

Are daytime Christmas parties the solution to better inclusivity?

Are daytime Christmas parties the solution to better inclusivity?

Are daytime Christmas parties the solution to better inclusivity? 900 653 micebook.

Today (25 September) marks three months until Christmas. While it might still seem a long way off, before we know it, the festive season will be upon us, which for many working in the events industry means its corporate Christmas party time!

Venues are already busy promoting their Christmas party packages, including 66 Portland Place, which has taken a different approach to the usual themed evening dinner and disco approach by partnering with Day Fever, the popular daytime club founded by actor Vicky McClure and her husband Jonny Owen.

“Day Fever has taken the UK by storm as it reflects the changing face of experiences and entertainment. Unlike a traditional night out, Day Fever happens during the day making the events appealing and accessible to people who prefer not to stay out late or who have busy schedules or family commitments,” explains Chris McClure, director, Day Fever.

“Add in chart-toppers, a nostalgic list of floor-fillers and flurry of cheese and it’s the perfect setting for a diverse crowd. We’ve created an inclusive environment which allows people to enjoy themselves without feeling out of place. Most importantly guests get home at a reasonable hour which is a big draw for those who want to have fun without sacrificing sleep or next-day responsibilities.”

Given the increasing focus on making sure corporate events are inclusive for all, we can’t help thinking this partnership is a clever move by 66 Portland Place. After all, the traditional late night boozy Christmas bash isn’t always the most inclusive environment.

Changing expectations

“There’s a big shift in event culture and it’s playing out in Christmas Parties too. We’ve embraced a new demographic, new expectations from the workplace and a need to be more inclusive head on by partnering with Day Fever,” says Thomas Morgan, head of venues and events delivery, RIBA at 66 Portland Place.

“We’re seeing that people don’t necessarily want to socialise with colleagues after working hours yet it’s an important part of the workplace culture to bring people together to interact and network. “Generation Z is reshaping the workplace – they are digital natives; they seek workplace environments that support their mental health and promote a healthy work-life balance. They are increasingly putting their foot down about post-work events as they try to maintain a clear boundary between their work and personal lives. Alcohol, once central to events, is also being shunned by Gen-Z.”

Around 20% of the adult population now identify as non-drinkers. This number rises to 39% of Gen-Z opting for low-to-no drinks or not drinking at all. Meanwhile, according to a 2022 Diversity & Inclusion in the Workplace Report, nearly half (44%) of employees aged 21-24 avoid company socials so they don’t experience pressure to drink.

But that doesn’t mean they don’t want to party. A report from recruitment company Reed revealed that the Gen Z workforce feels annual festivities are a key part of work culture and nearly two-thirds (61%) say attending would help boost morale, 39% see it as an opportunity to become closer to their colleagues and 28% would feel more valued by their employer throwing them a party.

Morgan adds that it’s not just Gen Z who are changing the traditional night out. “Social dynamics are being driven by ease of connecting with friends online and there is a notable preference for staying in and enjoying home entertainment. Events are having to be inclusive; a late night and hangover are no longer markers of success. It’s all adding up to a re-think for event packages, dinners and the traditional Christmas bash.

In a world where hybrid working has become the norm, giving employees the opportunity to get together in person at the end of the year to connect and celebrate can play an important part in shaping and maintaining a strong culture. But it needs to be in an environment that engages and includes everyone.

McClure believes that Day Fever could prove to be the perfect office Christmas party: “It’s inclusive, it’ll get everyone mixing, it’s at a good time in the working day and Tom’s ensured there’s both a No & Lo bar, as well as more traditional festive tipples.”

The details:

Priced from £119 + VAT per person, Day Fever at 66 Portland Place includes: specially curated all killer no filler music set, light and video show, 2 drinks tokens per person and a rolling buffet. Guests will dance in the festive, art deco inspired Florence Hall with its towering Christmas tree. Food and drink will be served in the adjacent spaces with a dedicated botanicals bar serving strictly lo and no alcohol drinks.

Day Fever’s Christmas residence at 66 Portland Place is available for exclusive use.
Dates: ​16- 20th December 2024
Times: 13:00 – 16:00 / 16:00 – 20:00
Numbers: 175-400 guests

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