Crain’s Corporate Holiday Guide 2024 Crain’s Corporate Holiday Guide 2024
Your guide to holiday party planning Your guide to holiday party planning
Experiences, inclusivity and philanthropy are hallmarks of spirited company celebrations
BY WEB BEHRENS
Like the pines, firs and spruces we see so often during endof-year festivities, some traditions for corporate holiday parties are evergreen.
In keeping with custom of recent years, several party planners say you can’t go wrong by arranging for fun group experiences. Think “social, not seated” — thanks to semi-structured activities that encourage people to mingle, interacting on a level playing field and discovering new things about their coworkers. (Just don’t call it a “team-building exercise.”)
“A sit-down dinner isn’t always going to be enough,” says Kate Ahern, associate director of marketing and events for Vandalay Brands, whose restaurants include Millennium Hall (beneath Cloud Gate in Millennium Park). “Whether it’s cookie decorating or even pizza-making classes, incorporating unique experiences into holiday events has been very popular.”
“Philanthropy can be a great connector for a holiday/end-ofyear celebration for a company.”
-Lorelei Kroulaidis, director of special events at the Chicago History Museum.
The Chopping Block agrees: Experiential parties are a hit. “Good food makes people happy, and they enjoy it even more when they have the satisfaction of being able to say, ‘I made that!’,” says general manager Kate Augustin. “The Chopping Block’s events combine cooking and fun, so they make a unique option for holiday parties.”
“Companies want team members and guests to bond over shared experiences like ice skating, cooking or competition. They’re seeking unique venues that offer unique activities,” concurs Melanie Kamme, head of hospitality for Wrigley Field Events. Building on that concept, Kamme notes that Wrigley Field offers tours of the Friendly Confines, and party planners can also arrange meet-and-greet experiences with Cubs legends.
Of course, there’s more to planning a party for the workforce than brainstorming interesting activities. One big-picture strategy for pulling off a successful 2024 bash is to review how recent events have gone.
“Start with a base of inclusivity for your employees,” says Lorelei Kroulaidis, director of special events at the Chicago History Museum. To that end, she advises planners to “really look at what was done in years past. What was the feedback? Were there pinch points that should be addressed?”
In this era of a decentralized staffing, pay extra attention to involving remote workers. What will encourage everyone to come together under one roof? A top-notch event menu is one motivator, says Emily Dreckshage, director of events at Maple Hospitality Group. “Our clients can choose a chef-curated experience, which incorporates signature Maple & Ash dishes such as caviar, fire-roasted seafood towers and our chef’s best cut of steak,” she says.
Focusing on food and drink will always pay dividends, and there are opportunities to pay it further forward when companies pair a rich menu with richness of spirit by adding a charitable component.
Past Chopping Block holiday-party clients have doubled the necessary fare “to purposely have food to donate,” Augustin says. “It’s a great way to ensure that your team has fun at their holiday event, while giving back to the community.”
Another benevolent option involves holiday cocktails, Vandalay’s Ahern suggests. “Our onsite beverage manager works with the client to come up with a specialty drink,” she says, “and a portion of the sales are then donated to the organization of their choice.”
“Philanthropy can be a great connector for a holiday/end-ofyear celebration for a company,” Kroulaidis observes. At the History Museum, she’s run events that combine experiential components with charity, such as having a build-a-backpack station where guests can fill a tote for kids and write them a personalized note. She’s also accommodated silent auctions, with the proceeds going to charity.
Of course, that’s a motivator for those close enough to actually commute. If your company’s remote workforce is too geographically spread out to bring the whole team together, work-around options exist. At The Chopping Block, Augustin notes, “We offer virtual happy hours and virtual cooking events to help facilitate bringing employees together, even if they can’t all be together in person.”
“You never want to exclude those (who) cannot attend live; they need a way to be a part of the fun too,” says Wrigley Field Events’ Kamme. “For example, if you’re hosting a silent auction, you can create a mobile site so remote guests can join for a chance to win. While the execution elements may differ, the strategy should be consistent: inclusive engagement.”
Brewhouse Inn & Suites
1215 N. 10th St., Milwaukee, WI 53205 414-810-3350
The Brewhouse Inn & Suites is your premier choice for group meetings, social events, corporate conferences, rehearsal dinners and more, boasting more than 13,000 square feet of versatile indoor and outdoor event space.
Nestled in the original Pabst Blue Ribbon Brewery in Milwaukee’s historic Brewery District, our unique venue offers a charming atmosphere that enhances any occasion. With five event spaces ideal for groups of any size from eight to 100, we can accommodate a variety of gatherings. Beyond our event facilities, guests can indulge in modern suites, onsite dining and a central location that captures the essence of Milwaukee’s vibrant culture.
sales@brewhousesuites.com • brewhousesuites.com
Max capacity reception (standing): 100 Max capacity banquet (seated): 100
Chicago History Museum
1601 N. Clark St., Chicago, IL 60614 312-799-2252
The Chicago History Museum invites you and your guests into our warm, historical home for the holidays. Be a guest at your own holiday celebration at the Chicago History Museum. Tucked along the gardens of Lincoln Park, the Chicago History Museum offers a variety of spaces that can be used for corporate events, daytime meetings, cocktail receptions, reunions and, of course, your holiday festivities.
events@chicagohistory.org • chicagohistory.org/corporate-events
Max capacity reception (standing): 1,800 Max capacity banquet (seated): 340 indoors and 700 outdoors
The Chopping Block
4747 N. Lincoln Ave. ,Chicago, IL 60625 773-472-6700
The best parties start and end in The Chopping Block’s kitchens! Chicago’s premier recreational cooking school offers private cooking events that bring people together over food and wine in a cozy atmosphere. Whether your goal is to celebrate your corporate team, host an intimate gathering for family and friends or entertain VIP clients during the holidays, The Chopping Block offers a fun, educational and diverse event solution.
From interactive cooking parties for all skill levels with mouthwatering holiday menus to competitive events for those who want to spice things up with our professional chefs to engaging and entertaining wine and cocktail education, our kitchens provide the perfect outlet to create a memorable experience for your guests. Make a lasting impression this holiday season by booking your event with a small business that has been hosting successful cooking parties for over 27 years!
parties@thechoppingblock.com • thechoppingblock.com
Max capacity reception (standing): 50 Max capacity banquet (seated): 50
Maple & Ash
8 W. Maple St., Chicago, IL 60610 312-944-8888
Maple & Ash offers an innovative take on the traditional steakhouse, perfect for corporate holiday events. With a modern aesthetic and authentic service, we deliver classic wood-fired dishes in a variety of versatile event spaces. Whether hosting an intimate gathering or a corporate dinner, our elegant settings and exceptional culinary offerings will make your event unforgettable.
Experience the unique blend of sophistication and warmth that defines Maple & Ash, and let us help you create a memorable holiday celebration for your team. Elevate your next event with Maple & Ash!
events@mapleandash.com • mapleandash.com/reserve/#events
Max capacity reception (standing): 300 Max capacity banquet (seated): 200
Millennium Hall Chicago
11 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL, 60602 312-521-7275
Welcome to Millennium Hall, where timeless elegance meets modern sophistication in the heart of Chicago’s iconic Millennium Park. Nestled at 11 N. Michigan Ave., adjacent to the renowned Cloud Gate sculpture, Millennium Hall offers unparalleled views of one of Chicago’s most popular neighborhoods.
Whether you’re planning an intimate private dining experience or a grand-scale reception, Millennium Hall provides versatile event spaces to suit your needs, including both indoor and outdoor options. With capacities ranging up to 1,800 guests, our venue accommodates events of all sizes with style and grace. Immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of downtown Chicago while enjoying Millennium Hall’s event spaces and cutting-edge amenities. Get in touch with a member of our events team today.
marketing@vandalaybrands.com • millenniumhallevents.com
Max capacity reception (standing): 1,800 Max capacity banquet (seated): 1,100
Museum of Contemporary Art
220 E. Chicago Ave., Chicago, IL 60611 312-397-4017
Transform your next event into an unforgettable experience by hosting it at the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago. Located just off the Magnificent Mile, the MCA’s distinctive indoor/outdoor event spaces are perfect for any gathering size and will guarantee a lasting impression on your guests.
Ready to book? Inquire at mcachicago.org/rentals, or reach out to us by email at events@mcachicago.org or by phone at 312-3974017, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
events@mcachicago.org • mcachicago.org/rentals
Max capacity reception (standing): 900 Max capacity banquet (seated): 300
Averyhouse
Pazzo’s Chicago
311 S. Wacker Dr., Chicago, IL 60606 312-913-1600
Pazzo’s Chicago is a prestigious restaurant and event space that has its home within the extraordinary architecture of 311 S. Wacker Drive. For more than two decades, we’ve been serving authentic recipes with an urban flair, suitable for fine outings or daily dining. Our events are second-to-none, whether for business or pleasure. At Pazzo’s Chicago, we know how to celebrate! Whether for a small business meeting in a private room or a large corporate gathering in our Atrium – we’ll work with you to plan a flawless event. And if you are celebrating a personal milestone or choosing Pazzo’s for your special day, let our event managers and chefs work with you to create an experience that neither you nor your guests will ever forget.
Max capacity reception (standing): 500 Max capacity banquet (seated): 300
Soldier Field
1410 S. Special Olympics Dr., Chicago, IL 60605 312-235-7000
Soldier Field and the surrounding 17-acre parkland offer unique special event areas with breathtaking lakefront and city views. Whether you are hosting a 10-person meeting, 100-person dinner or 5,000-plus person corporate event, Soldier Field has multiple indoor and outdoor spaces to make your event memorable. Convenient onsite parking garages are available. Now is the time to book your next event at Chicago’s most iconic venue. Soldier Field… Celebrate in style!
events@soldierfield.net • SoldierField.com
Max capacity reception (standing): 100-5,000 (club spaces), 10 – 100 (suites) and 5,000-plus in the parkland and field. Max capacity banquet (seated): 100-5,000 (club spaces), 10 – 100 (suites) and 5,000-plus in the parkland and field.
The Stella Hotel & Ballroom
5706 8th Ave., Kenosha, WI 53140 262-842-2000
Discover the timeless charm of The Stella Hotel & Ballroom located in the heart of downtown Kenosha, just minutes from the breathtaking shores of Lake Michigan. Our contemporary yet classic full-service hotel features 80 guest rooms and suites with comfortable amenities and three onsite dining options.
The Stella Hotel & Ballroom is the ideal destination for corporate meetings, social events, weddings and more, offering over 8,000 square feet of flexible event space with five rooms perfectly suited for groups ranging from 10 to 225 attendees. Choose from settings such as our spacious two-story ballroom, which boasts dramatic 20-foot high ceilings, large picturesque windows, an outdoor balcony and a private bar, or our intimate Pettit Boardroom, perfect for gatherings of up to sixteen.
events@stellahotel.com • stellahotel.com
Max capacity reception (standing): 225 Max capacity banquet (seated): 225
Twenty Six Chicago
2 W. Erie St., Chicago, IL 60654 312-995-0134
Take your holiday party to new heights at LM Catering & Events’ downtown Chicago event venue, Twenty Six! Overlooking Chicago’s bustling River North neighborhood, Twenty Six is the ideal destination for your next celebration.
With a unique combination of indoor/outdoor space, the venue is complete with an open-air rooftop terrace, custom lounge furniture and two bar areas. No matter the occasion your guests will enjoy the expansive views, delicious food and drink and modern lounge environment.
info@twentysixchicago.com • twentysixchicago.com
Max capacity reception (standing): 180 Max capacity banquet (seated): 70
Waldorf Astoria Chicago
11 E. Walton St., Chicago, IL 60611 312-646-1324
Parisian elegance meets modern luxury in Downtown Chicago at Waldorf Astoria Chicago. Inspired by the timeless allure of famous 20th-century writers and the chic Parisian style, our centrally located event venues redefine sophistication. Step into a world where lavish furnishings harmonize seamlessly with cuttingedge amenities, creating an ambiance that inspires creativity and connection. Whether you’re hosting a corporate meeting, a highprofile conference or a fairytale wedding, our dedicated concierge ensures every detail is flawlessly executed.
Nestled in the heart of downtown Chicago, our hotel invites you to explore the vibrant Rush Street and the iconic Magnificent Mile. Choose from our elegant guest suites, each adorned with unique features like cozy fireplaces or private terraces that offer breathtaking city vistas. Immerse yourself in the perfect blend of Parisian charm and Windy City allure.
CHIWA-SALESADM@waldorfastoria.com • waldorfastoriachicago.com
Max capacity reception (standing): 230 Max capacity banquet (seated): 200
WNDR is an ever-evolving experience with awe-inspiring interactive art, lounge and shop for those curious enough to wonder. WNDR was designed to increase curiosity, creativity and community. Around every corner comes an opportunity to be creative, discover something unexpected, ask questions and play.
In Chicago, we have three stellar options for private corporate events: The Loft, our designated Event Space, and a full Venue Buyout.
• wndrmuseum.com/private Max
John Muggenborg Photography
Kyle Flubacker
Wrigley Field
1101 W. Waveland Ave., Chicago, IL 60613 773-388-8165
Bring the magic of the holidays to life at Wrigley Field, where the spirit of celebration and the historic charm of one of baseball’s most iconic ballparks merge to create an extraordinary event. With event spaces located throughout campus, Wrigley Field is the ideal venue for holiday parties, corporate events and more! Exclusive premier clubs, including the American Airlines 1914 Club, Maker’s Mark Barrel Room, The W Club, James Hardie Catalina Club and Executive Club provide an exceptional atmosphere for celebrating in style.
Adjacent to Wrigley Field, the American Airlines Conference Center features four flexible event spaces, each offering a versatile and elegant environment for more intimate holiday gatherings. Book your holiday party today and mention the word “HOLIDAY” in your inquiry to receive a special offering!
wrigleyfieldevents@levyrestaurants.com • wrigleyfieldevents.com/
Max capacity reception (standing): 400 Max capacity banquet (seated): 200
CREATE YOUR HISTORIC MOMENT
With breathtaking views just steps from the lake, the Chicago History Museum is the perfect location for your next event.
We offer several event spaces, an outdoor plaza, and a theater to allow for gatherings of up to 1,500 people. Add a lively after-hours cocktail reception to unwind after a productive day.
Set the perfect scene for your next event at the Chicago History Museum.
Wrigley Field