The holiday season is a time to embrace the sparkle, glamour, and joy of the most festive time of year, and this year’s lineup of celebrations promises unforgettable moments filled with merriment and sophistication. From elegant soirées in iconic hotels to lively parties under twinkling lights, cities across the country (from San Francisco to New York) are rolling out the red carpet for holiday party-goers seeking to toast the season in style.
Whether you’re dreaming of sipping cocktails in a winter wonderland, enjoying timeless tunes at a vintage-inspired dinner, or mingling at a chic holiday gala (with thousands of fashionably dressed Millennials and Gen-Zers), these holiday parties and Christmas events are the perfect way to celebrate the magic of the season.
Waldorf Wonderland & Annual Lobby Lighting Ceremony – New Orleans, Louisiana
Just steps from the French Quarter, the historic Roosevelt New Orleans, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel, is a timeless architectural gem steeped in the rich history of New Orleans. Renowned as a premier holiday destination, the hotel comes alive each year with festive traditions that delight both locals and visitors alike. Its celebrated ‘Waldorf Wonderland’ transforms the property into a breathtaking winter spectacle featuring over 112,000 twinkling lights, 1,600 feet of garland, and 4,000 glass ornaments. This year, the magical display includes a lifesize gingerbread house by Chef Kareena Dennis, adorned with whimsical New Orleans-inspired touches such as beignets, crawfish cookies, and even a chocolate alligator. The season kicks off with the Annual Lobby Lighting Ceremony on December 3rd, with Jazz Trumpeter Kermit Ruffins flipping the switch amidst a complimentary champagne toast. For those craving an extra dash of holiday cheer, The Sazerac Bar offers handcrafted seasonal cocktails, including the Candy Cane and Christmas Cookie, making The Roosevelt the ultimate setting for creating cherished holiday memories.
Christmas Prelude Murder Mystery Dinner – Kennebunkport, Maine
Ocean Restaurant, nestled within the charming Cape Arundel Inn on Kennebunkport’s exclusive Ocean Avenue, invites you to an unforgettable evening of intrigue and holiday spirit with its Christmas Prelude Murder Mystery Dinner on Thursday, December 5th. Step into the enchanting world of the Billionaires’ Club Annual Masquerade Ball, where Venetian masks, fine silks, and festive glamour set the stage for a thrilling night of suspense. As you indulge in a gourmet three-course dinner, you’ll become part of a captivating and interactive storyline, joining fellow guests to unravel clues, uncover secrets, and ultimately unmask the killer. With every twist and turn, the mystery deepens, keeping you on the edge of your seat while you savor exquisite cuisine. Costumes and participation are encouraged for this holly jolly evening of mystery, elegance, and fun.
Frosted: Holiday Pop-Up Cocktail Experience – St. Louis, Missouri
Step into a winter wonderland of festive cheer and sparkling delights! Frosted is a cocktail-focused holiday pop-up experience (from December 12 – December 23, 2024) hosted by STL Barkeep at Piper Palm House in Tower Grove Park. The snow-themed soirée held at the historical Piper Palm House provides the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the holidays. Indulge in expertly crafted cocktails inspired by the flavors of the season – from spiced winter warmers to refreshing twists on holiday classics. An atmosphere filled with elegant decor, festive music, and luminous cheer creates a magical backdrop for mingling and merry-making gatherings of all kinds. Come for the cocktails, stay for the memories, and celebrate the spirit of the season at Frosted!
Concert in the Event Barn – Canandaigua, New York
This holiday season, The Lake House on Canandaigua invites you to an enchanting evening of Broadway magic with acclaimed stars John Riddle (Phantom of the Opera, Frozen) and Carrie St. Louis (Titanique, Wicked), joined by Dan Micciche, Music Director and conductor of Broadway’s Wicked. On Saturday, December 14th, the hotel’s Event Barn will come alive with Broadway at The Lake House, a captivating Concert in the Event Barn featuring Tony Award-winning hits from beloved classics like West Side Story and Wicked, along with festive holiday favorites. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Canandaigua Lake, the evening promises an unforgettable experience for theater lovers and holiday enthusiasts alike. For those seeking a cozy weekend getaway, the hotel’s “Make it an Overnight” package offers a 20% discount on one- or two-night stays during the event when booking with the code “OVRNGT.”
Big Band Holiday Dinner – Queens, New York
The Rockaway Hotel, a vibrant and community-focused destination in the heart of Rockaway Beach, invites guests to celebrate the season with its elegant Big Band Holiday Dinner on Saturday, December 14th. This festive evening will feature a three-course dinner paired with premium libations, including a Martini and Irish Coffee bar, creating a warm and sophisticated atmosphere. Guests will be serenaded by timeless Frank Sinatra classics and festive big-band renditions of holiday favorites, making it a night of music, dining, and celebration to remember. Dress to impress as formal attire is required for this dazzling holiday affair.
The Guardsmen Annual Tree Lot Party – San Francisco, California
Lastly, one of my personal favorites (which I’ve attended many times) is The Guardsmen Annual Tree Lot Party – a cherished San Francisco holiday tradition that combines festive cheer with a meaningful cause. This year’s must-attend party will be held on Saturday, December 14th at the iconic Festival Pavilion at Fort Mason, this lively celebration brings the city together to toast the season in style. Guests are invited to enjoy an evening filled with live music, dancing, and delicious seasonal bites, all set against a backdrop of twinkling holiday lights and fragrant Christmas trees. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and trend-setting crowd of thousands of Millennials and Gen Zers, this holiday party is a fun way to kick off the holidays while supporting The Guardsmen’s mission to provide at-risk youth with access to education and outdoor activities. Whether you come for the music, the camaraderie, or the joy of giving back, the Tree Lot Party promises an unforgettable night filled with holiday magic and community spirit.
To discover other delightful events and wonderful travel destinations, check out the Special Events and Travel sections on Inspirations & Celebrations.
[Images c/o featured events. Header image credit: The Roosevelt New Orleans]
