Planning a corporate holiday party in Indianapolis is no small task. Whether your event is for 50 employees in a private dining room or 1,500 guests in a ballroom, one decision can make or break the night: entertainment.
The right entertainment keeps guests engaged, reinforces company culture, and ensures your event is remembered for all the right reasons. In fact, research shows that over 78% of employees believe fun company events improve workplace morale and retention (Gallup).
To make your planning easier, here are five Indianapolis holiday entertainment ideas that can fit both small gatherings and large corporate celebrations.
1. Comedy Magic with a Twist
Laughter + amazement = instant connection. A comedy magician like Jamahl Keyes – The Magic Comic delivers clean humor, audience participation, and jaw-dropping illusions that work perfectly for diverse corporate crowds.
Why it works:
Works for both intimate cocktail hours and large ballroom stages.
Interactive moments (pulling your CEO on stage!) create memories that become office buzz for weeks.
Customizable: magic can highlight your company’s values, holiday theme, or product launch.
📊 Stat to note: Interactive entertainment boosts event engagement by 65% compared to passive formats (EventMB).
2. Live Music or Holiday Bands
Bring in a live jazz trio, a festive holiday choir, or even a high-energy cover band. Music sets the mood from background ambiance to full-blown dance party.
Why it works:
Instantly elevates the atmosphere.
Can adapt to your schedule—cocktail hour, dinner set, or post-dinner dance.
Scalable from small acoustic groups to full orchestras.
🎶 Indianapolis tip: Hire local acts like Indianapolis Jazz Orchestra or festive choirs from local universities for a polished yet affordable option.
📊 According to Eventbrite, live music increases perceived event value by 30%, making guests more likely to rate the event “excellent.”
3. Face Painter & Family-Friendly Fun 🎨
If your company invites employees’ families to holiday parties, face painting is an instant win. Professional artists create quick, festive designs that delight kids—and even adventurous adults.
Why it works:
Keeps kids entertained while parents mingle.
Adds visual holiday flair to the event.
Creates photo-worthy memories.
📊 Family-friendly activities increase overall guest satisfaction by 25% when children are included (BizBash).
4. Professional Party DJ 🎶
A DJ does more than spin records—they set the tone for your entire event. From cocktail hour background tracks to late-night dancefloor anthems, DJs create a flow that keeps your guests engaged.
Why it works:
Flexible for small or large venues.
Can personalize playlists to match company culture.
Keeps energy high throughout the night.
📊 According to Eventbrite, live and DJ music boosts event satisfaction by 30% and encourages longer guest attendance.
5. Interactive Photo Booths & Games 📸
From branded photo booths to LED casino tables or giant holiday-themed games, these activations give employees a way to connect beyond small talk.
Why it works:
Ice-breaker between departments.
Encourages team bonding.
Creates branded keepsakes and social media buzz.
📊 Photo activations increase event-related social media shares by 120% (BizBash).
