No two Festive celebrations are alike. Some guests love a cosy dinner at their favourite local spot; others prefer to try somewhere new. Then, there are those who want to dive right into Christmas activities —like learning how to shake up the perfect cocktail to serve friends and family. What’s at the heart of it all? Guests are looking for unforgettable experiences—and that’s why the festive season is a prime time for restaurants to shine.
OpenTable Experiences enable you to offer customisable, bookable events beyond traditional dining at your restaurant. And with all-new Ticketed Experiences, you’re not limited by table inventory. Host mixology classes, special tastings, and Christmas parties anywhere you like. Plus, you can control every detail.
Here are 10 creative Experience ideas to inspire your restaurant this festive season.
Offer a seasonal prix fixe menu
Impress your guests with a festive, multi-course, prix fixe menu that celebrates the best of the season. Start with show-stopping starters like maple cranberry baked brie, then serve rich, hearty mains like baked ham with a brown sugar glaze. For dessert, treats like a gingerbread and white chocolate mousse trifle are sure to leave guests buzzing with holiday cheer. Make each bite unforgettable, and you’ll have guests raving to friends and family.
Give a lesson in mixology
Invite guests to a spirited cocktail-making class, where your expert bar team will lead mixology classes for fun that teach them to craft festive drinks like eggnog martinis and cranberry old-fashioneds. The best part? Guests can take home your recipes to recreate the magic for their friends and family. Generate extra revenue by selling your restaurant’s pre-made mixers as an add-on.
Host supper and photos with Santa
Looking for something more family-friendly? Host a dinner where guests can enjoy a festive meal and take pictures with Santa. Curate a kid-friendly menu so you can hold their attention long after they meet Santa.
With OpenTable Experiences, you can set flexible prices for adults and kids. This lets guests pick the price that works for them.
Offer a bottomless brunch
It’s exactly what it sounds like! Create a special themed brunch menu for guests to enjoy. Include festive options like eggnog French toast, gingerbread pancakes, and seasonal mimosas (cranberry, for example). Want to spice it up even more? Make sure your decor and music scream Christmas spirit.
Serve a festive afternoon tea
Looking to elevate your guests’ experience? Offer an elegant afternoon tea service featuring festive sweets, scones, finger sandwiches, and teas. Expert tip: enhance the experience by making your dining room feel more intimate.
Bring people together with themed parties
This time of year can be lonely for some. Make it festive and full of cheer with a mixer party for example. Create a fun and welcoming atmosphere with Christmas-themed cocktails, light bites, and icebreaker games to help guests meet and connect with each other. Your restaurant could be the place where people fall in love!
Curate a unique chef’s table experience
Treat your guests to an exclusive chef’s table experience, giving them a front-row view of the magic. This intimate setup invites guests to chat with the chef, witness seasonal dishes come to life, and savour a bespoke menu crafted with seasonal touches. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience that brings cheer straight to the table.
Sell a take-home feast
Give guests the joy of a festive meal in the comfort of their home by serving beautifully packaged and prepared dishes to takeaway. Curate a Christmas spread with seasonal favourites like charcuterie boards, cheeses and or delicious desserts to enjoy without the fuss of cooking.
Host a New Year’s Eve countdown party
Ring in the new year with a celebratory event in your dining room. Complete with a champagne toast, countdown to midnight, and accessories like party hats and 2025 glasses. Take it up a notch with a live DJ and goody bags for a fun night your guests will rave about.
Amp up the spirit with a Christmas-inspired karaoke night
Turn up the cheer by hosting an open mic and karaoke night where guests can showcase their talent or sing along to festive classics. Decorate your space with lights, provide a playlist of seasonal hits, and offer themed cocktails and snacks. A prize for the best performance can add an extra layer of fun.
