We recently came across some interesting statistics on holiday parties from digital advertising technology company interclick.  According to their report released on Wed., nine to 13 percent of households are throwing some sort of holiday party  this year, the median budget is near $350 per event and overall, consumer holiday party spending could top $3 billion this year.  Pretty impressive.

A scene from Midtown Arts Center's (formerly Carousel Dinnet Theatre's) 2009 production of "Irving Berlin's White Christmas

Our team loves a good holiday party, but what about corporate holiday parties? Everyone has heard some horror stories, or been forced to go to a party and listen to their boss tell bad jokes, but overall corporate Christmas parties aren’t that bad right?

Business strategists actually say that corporate holiday parties are great for building employee morale. As long as they are done tastefully and celebrate the spirit of the season, this is a great way to celebrate employees. Some tips? Leave the planning to the professionals (like our good friends at eSquared – Exceptional Events), limit the amount of alcohol, bring in festive, holiday-themed entertainment like Christmas carolers, short skits from local Christmas shows such as Midtown Arts Center’s ‘White Christmas’ and celebrate your employees contributions to the company.

What are some of your recommendations for successful corporate holiday parties?