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When it comes to planning your corporate holiday celebration in Indianapolis, one big question always bubbles up: what’s the drink situation? Companies in Indy handle beverages in all kinds of ways; some go all out with an open bar, others stick to drink tickets, and a few skip alcohol altogether.
Each option comes with its own pros and cons, and choosing the right one depends on your budget, company culture, and the type of event you’re hosting. At INDUSTRY, we’ve seen it all: from fully hosted cocktail receptions to dry holiday brunches. Let’s break down the options so you can decide what’s best for your crew.
Option 1: The Open Bar
The open bar is the classic crowd-pleaser. Guests can order what they want, when they want, and it definitely gets people mingling.
Pros:
It feels generous and celebratory.
Easy for guests, with no limits to track.
Creates a social, lively atmosphere.
Cons:
It’s the priciest option.
Overconsumption can become an issue (nobody wants Monday-morning gossip about Steve from accounting).
Best for: Companies looking to reward employees with a big, splashy celebration. If you’ve got a budget to match and want to create a “night out in Indy” vibe, this is your winner.
Option 2: Drink Tickets
Think of drink tickets as the happy medium between all-you-can-drink and ensuring no one gets too carried away. Guests get a set number of tickets—usually 2 or 3—for beer, wine, cocktails, or mocktails.
Pros:
Keeps the bar tab predictable.
Encourages responsible drinking.
Still feels like a perk for your team.
Cons:
Some guests may feel limited or run out of tickets quickly.
Can create a “who has an extra ticket?” scavenger hunt by the end of the night.
Best for: Businesses who want to create a fun atmosphere without blowing the budget. At INDUSTRY in Indianapolis, we often see drink tickets paired with a great food spread for a balanced, festive, and cost-effective celebration.
Option 3: No Alcohol
Going alcohol-free might not be the most popular option, but it’s not as deterring as it sounds, especially if your event is a brunch, luncheon, or family-friendly celebration.
Pros:
Incredibly budget-friendly.
Keeps the focus on food, entertainment, and community.
Eliminates any concerns about overindulgence.
Cons:
Some guests might find it less exciting.
You may need to bring in extra entertainment to keep the energy high.
Best for: Companies that value inclusivity, want to keep things simple, or are hosting morning/afternoon events. Pro tip: mocktails, hot cocoa bars, or gourmet coffee stations can still make your event feel special.
So, What’s Best for Your Indianapolis Holiday Party?
At the end of the day, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The right choice comes down to your company culture, your budget, and the kind of celebration you want to create. Whether you’re dreaming of a generous open bar, a balanced ticket system, or a fun alcohol-free bash, INDUSTRY in Indianapolis has the flexibility to make it happen.
We’ve hosted countless holiday parties here in Indy, and our team knows how to design beverage packages that fit your needs without the stress.
Plan Your Holiday Party at INDUSTRY
Ready to raise a glass (or a mocktail) to your team this season? Let’s make it happen.
Contact INDUSTRY today to start planning your Indianapolis holiday party with expert support, flexible beverage options, and a space designed to celebrate in style.
