Easy Holiday Party Planning Ideas

Holiday celebrations come in all shapes and sizes—and FAD is excited to introduce (or reintroduce!) you to festive, fabulous venues perfect for gatherings of every style and scale.

• Great Things Come in Little Packages 
Host a company happy hour with beer, wine, signature cocktails, and standout appetizers.
Keep the vibe casual, the conversation flowing, and the costs down. 

• Let’s Do Lunch! 
Whether it’s a half-day celebration or a midday break, let’s bring back the lost art of lunch.
From limited menus and buffets to pizza parties and antipasto receptions, plan an afternoon of merriment with friends and coworkers. 

• Eat – Drink – Learn 
Level up your holiday outing with a distillery, brewery, or vineyard tour and tasting!
Sip and stroll your way through some of Connecticut’s most popular beer, wine, and spirits brands, then cap it off with a casual reception featuring their in-house culinary partners. 

With so many creative options, remember: it’s NEVER too late to plan a holiday party. Restaurants and venues welcome last-minute inquiries and often have available dates that may surprise you. 

Let’s make it a holiday to remember! 

Aquila’s Nest Vineyards – Sandy Hook/Newtown 

Aquila’s Nest Vineyards is the perfect backdrop for any celebration! Perched on a scenic hilltop, the venue offers sweeping views of rolling vineyards and spectacular sunsets—an unforgettable setting for parties, gatherings, and special occasions. 

Barracuda Bistro & Bar - New Haven 
80 Proof American Kitchen - New Haven 
Te Amo Tequila - New Haven 
This popular restaurant group located in the heart of New Haven is comprised of three spirited brands. Chef Sonia Salazar shares her Latin roots in the form of Te Amo and Barracuda, and flexes her culinary prowess at 80 Proof. Known for their creative and seasonal cocktail program, lively happy hours, bold cuisine, and eclectic decor across all three restaurants, the restaurant group’s private event spaces and offerings make a lasting impression. 

Edmond Town Hall – Newtown  Edmond Town Hall features five unique event spaces perfect for any occasion. This Georgian-style historic landmark, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, offers a vibrant and versatile setting for your next event. 

Joylark Kitchen - Fairfield Joylark Kitchen takes plant-based cuisine to a whole new level with Executive Chef Jenna McPartland’s fresh approach to creating bright flavors, textures, and contrasts in food that is approachable and special. Fine dining meets casual elegance in this beautifully designed space that is open for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and cocktails. Ideal for corporate gatherings and milestone celebrations, Joylark Kitchen is a true standout as a destination for vegans and non-vegans alike. 

Marcello’s Italian Eatery - Monroe  Marcello’s is a family-owned regional Italian restaurant and gathering place that oozes warmth and hospitality. From intimate affairs (20-person private dining room) to larger events in the main dining room and bar, Marcello’s is known for their beautiful buffet and food presentations, custom beverage packages, and exquisite wine selections.

New York Comedy Club – Stamford New York Comedy Club Stamford is available for your special events, from holiday parties to corporate gatherings and more. With a lively atmosphere and built-in entertainment potential, it’s an excellent choice for an unforgettable night out. 

SoNo 1420 America’s Maritime Distillery – Norwalk  SoNo 1420 Distillery offers a unique, upscale setting in the heart of historic South Norwalk. Set in a rustic New England-style Tasting Room, with additional event space in the distillery itself, guests can enjoy award-winning craft spirits, customizable packages, and delicious land and sea fare from in-house caterer, Norwalk’s popular LobsterCraft, with meats sourced from Darien Butcher Shop. Add a distillery tour or mixology class for a truly unforgettable event. 

The Palace Danbury Theatre – Danbury The Palace Danbury Theatre delivers a classic theatre ambiance, making it the ideal location for themed holiday parties, employee training sessions, corporate events, and more. Its historic charm sets the tone for memorable experiences. 

The Palace Theatre – Stamford The Palace Theatre Stamford offers a variety of unique and affordable spaces perfect for hosting events, off-site training, meetings, parties, galas, weddings, and more. With flexible layouts and stunning architecture, it’s a standout venue for any occasion.