Holiday party season is here—and as companies start finalizing details, one trend is clear: themes are in. A strong theme transforms a standard holiday gathering into a memorable, immersive experience that employees actually look forward to.

At Forest Lodge, we host and cater hundreds of holiday events every year, and we’re seeing clear patterns in what’s trending for 2025. From elegant winter atmospheres to nostalgic throwbacks, here are the top themes companies are choosing—and how our team brings each one to life.

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❄️ 1. Winter Wonderland Luxe

This is the classic holiday party theme—but elevated.
Think soft white lighting, shimmering décor, and a timeless snowy ambiance.

How Forest Lodge brings it to life:

• White draped linens, frosted branches, and crystal centerpieces
• Blue uplighting and soft snowfall effects
• Signature cocktails like Winterberry Spritz or Vanilla Spice Old Fashioned
• Dessert displays featuring white chocolate towers, powdered sugar pastries, and icy blue macarons
• Optional add-ons: snow machine, ice sculptures, hot chocolate bar

Perfect for: large corporate holiday parties, client appreciation events, and evening celebrations.

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🔥 2. Cozy Lodge Night

Rustic, warm, and intimate—this theme reflects the natural charm of Forest Lodge itself.
It’s nostalgia, comfort, and holiday spirit all rolled into one.

How we bring it to life:

• Bonfires, s’mores bars, string lights, and warm flannel-inspired décor
• Rustic wooden accents paired with lantern lights
• A menu of elevated comfort foods: braised short ribs, mac & cheese trio, warm apple crisps
• Hot cider stations (spiked or non-spiked)
• Optional add-ons: live acoustic music, bourbon tasting, cigar lounge setup

Perfect for: teams wanting a relaxed, cozy vibe that feels like a private winter retreat.

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✨ 3. Modern Glam Holiday

Companies wanting something more upscale and chic love this theme.
It swaps the traditional reds and greens for metallics, velvet, and dramatic lighting.

How we bring it to life:

• Gold, black, and champagne décor accents
• Mirror displays and modern lounge seating
• Chef-driven small-plate stations for a more elevated dining experience
• Crafted cocktail bars with espresso martinis, sparkling flights, and garnished spritzes
• Optional add-ons: photo booth glam filters, champagne towers

Perfect for: corporate galas, awards nights, and executive-level celebrations.

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🎁 4. Giving Back Holiday Party

A growing trend: companies are incorporating charitable elements into their celebrations.

How we bring it to life:

• Build-a-toy, build-a-backpack, or blanket assembly stations
• Donation drives paired with holiday décor
• Family-friendly catering options
• A simple, warm design that puts the focus on connection
• Optional add-ons: partner charity coordination and branded photo areas

Perfect for: mission-driven organizations and department-level team gatherings.

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🎊 5. The 90s Throwback Holiday Bash

Nostalgia is huge in 2025—and it’s not just for summer picnics.
The 90s theme has officially made its way to holiday season.

How we bring it to life:

• Neon accents, arcade games, colorful props
• A playlist filled with boy bands, hip-hop classics, and holiday remixes
• Creative menu twists: festive sliders, “throwback” desserts, novelty candy bars
• Fun cocktails like Hard Seltzer Punch or Spiked Capri-Sun

Perfect for: younger teams, tech companies, and anyone wanting a high-energy celebration.

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🌎 6. Global Holiday Flavors Around the World

Food-forward companies love this one.
It’s the perfect way to acknowledge cultural diversity while serving a show-stopping menu.

How we bring it to life:

• Interactive stations: Italian Christmas Eve, Latin holiday street foods, Asian dim sum, Mediterranean mezze
• Chef storytelling and live action cooking
• Décor matching each food region
• International dessert displays (think: tiramisu, tres leches, baklava, mochi)

Perfect for: large corporate groups and teams with diverse backgrounds.

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🍸 7. Speakeasy Holiday Soirée

A moody, roaring-20s theme with holiday sparkle.
It’s become one of the most requested vibes for 2025.

How we bring it to life:

• Velvet drapery, candlelit tables, art-deco accents
• Jazz, swing, or DJ lounge mixes
• Craft cocktail bar with whiskey, gin, and champagne-forward drinks
• Elevated finger foods and interactive carving stations
• Optional add-ons: casino tables, vintage photo booth, password-only entrance

Perfect for: evening parties and companies wanting a glamorous, immersive experience.

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🎄 Want to Bring Your Holiday Theme to Life?

Whether you're planning a full holiday party on our 40-acre property or hosting an in-office celebration with off-site catering, our team handles:
✔ Menu design
✔ Décor & theme coordination
✔ Activities & entertainment
✔ Vendor management

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