As Christmas party invites begin to circulate, a new survey by instantprint reveals the UK is far from united on what makes a great festive bash.
In a poll of 2,000 UK office workers, 80% said the best time to plan the Christmas party is before the end of September, with delays leading to venue issues, budget burnout and last-minute panic.
But the real divide? What the UK actually wants on the night.
While “drinks and dancing at a city centre bar” came out top overall (42%), regional preferences vary wildly. Londoners favoured glam bar nights (68%) and black-tie dinners, while Yorkshire voted for karaoke (31%), the South West leaned into countryside escapes (25%) and 23% of Scots said live music—ceilidhs or DJs—was essential.
Wales took the title for most laid-back region, with 58% saying a quiet drink was plenty, and just 8% interested in anything performance-based like karaoke.
Fashion choices also showed a generational split.
- 58% of Gen Z women said they’d wear a glitter mini dress, while Gen Z men opted for smart shirts and trainers
- Millennials preferred sleek tailoring and co-ords
- Boomers rejected fast fashion altogether, favouring comfort-first classics like knitwear and flat shoes
Craig Wassell, Marketing Manager at instantprint, said:
“Planning a party people actually want starts with listening. Our research shows big regional and generational differences—from preferred venues to dress codes. If you’re managing a hybrid or multi-location team, it’s worth tailoring the vibe to suit.”
Craig’s top tips for a successful Christmas party:
- Start early – book by the end of September to avoid inflated costs and empty calendars
- Ask, don’t assume – preferences vary more than you think
- Mix it up – offer flexibility or optional extras for wider appeal
- Don’t forget the dress code – people plan their outfit weeks in advance
Further information can be found here, and assets can be downloaded here.