Dan WillisTired of the same old DJ and dodgy speaker setup at your Christmas do? December parties deserve more than a half-hearted playlist and a few tinsel decorations.
Whether you’re organising a corporate Christmas party, a festive client event, or a private end-of-year celebration, booking live entertainment is the easiest way to take your event from average to unforgettable.
Here are some unique live entertainment ideas that you can book through Encore to make your December party stand out.
1. Roaming Bands That Work the Room
Forget the stage. Roaming bands are completely mobile and move between guests, performing acoustic versions of upbeat songs right in the middle of the action.
- Great for receptions, dinners or events where people are mingling
- Encourages guest interaction
- Works brilliantly in smaller spaces or venues with no stage area
Encore acts to consider: Acoustic roaming pop bands, brass-led ensembles, or even mariachi-style trios with a twist.
2. Live Looping Artists
Live loopers are one person acts that build songs from scratch on the spot using vocals, instruments and beatboxing. It’s mesmerising to watch and perfect for impressing a crowd without needing a full band.
- Compact and easy to set up
- Sound much bigger than they look
- Covers a range of genres from pop to soul to hip-hop
Encore acts to consider: Solo vocalists with loop stations, acoustic guitar loopers, or singer-pianists with live production.
3. DJs with Live Instrumentalists
Add energy and surprise by combining a DJ with live saxophone, percussion or electric violin. It’s visually engaging and feels like a hybrid between a club night and a live gig.
- Perfect for the late-night party slot
- Gets people dancing faster than a standard DJ set
- Ideal for events with younger crowds or big dancefloors
Encore acts to consider: DJ and sax duos, DJ with bongos, or DJ with electric violinist.
4. Christmas Choir
Looking for a classy and heartfelt way to kick off your evening? A Christmas choir delivers beautiful festive harmonies that set the tone.
- Suitable for formal events, receptions, or after-dinner slots
- Perform carols, festive pop, and gospel-inspired arrangements
- Available in various sizes – from small vocal trios to 20-piece choirs
Encore acts to consider: Pop-up vocal groups, gospel choirs, barbershop quartets, or contemporary a cappella groups.
5. Jazz Duos with a Festive Twist
Smooth, sophisticated and warm – jazz duos add instant class. Think piano and vocals, sax and guitar, or upright bass and keys playing Christmas classics reimagined in swing or soul styles.
- Great for drinks receptions and seated dinners
- Easily adjusted for background or foreground sets
- Can blend festive tunes with jazz standards or vintage covers
Encore acts to consider: Vintage jazz duos, Great Gatsby-style acts, or modern jazz duos with festive arrangements.
6. Silent Disco with Multiple DJs
Want something playful and unexpected? Hire multiple DJs and hand out wireless headphones. Guests can switch between channels, creating a fun battle of genres.
- No noise complaints
- Easy to host in non-traditional venues
- Perfect for teams or groups who like different music
Encore can help you pair live DJs with silent disco gear hire and support.
7. Instrumental Pop Covers
String quartets, solo pianists, or classical guitarists can perform stripped-back versions of pop songs and festive tracks. It’s elegant, unexpected and can be a real talking point.
- Works well during meals, receptions, or intros
- Adds a touch of class without being boring
- Often available with Christmas setlists
Encore acts to consider: Electric string quartets, piano soloists, harpists, or classical crossover artists.
8. Themed Party Bands
Why settle for a covers band when you can have a themed show? From Motown outfits to 80s glam bands or festive funk collectives, themed bands deliver both music and entertainment.
- Great for larger venues or dance-focused events
- Encourages dressing up and audience participation
- Can be tailored to match a specific theme or brief
Encore acts to consider: Tribute-style party bands, funk/soul collectives, or bands with Christmas medleys in costume.
Summary
There’s more to live music than a covers band on a stage. Whether you’re after elegance, interaction, energy, or atmosphere, Encore’s roster of professional musicians offers something for every kind of December party (and every budget).
Don’t settle for ordinary. Make this year’s Christmas event something your guests will still be talking about in the New Year.