Hospitality company Convene, which provides conference and event spaces in the US and UK, has transformed its London location into a turnkey Christmas experience. It was so successful that a return is planned for 2025.
The first Convene Christmas Market was almost sold out. Each event attracted more than 610 guests between December 9 and 20, 2024.
Designed for groups of 500 to 1,000 people, the market combines entertainment, experiential design and curated food and beverages. Christmas stalls, a log cabin-style lounge, a Christmas tree surrounded by “snow” and a ski lift suspended from the ceiling are all part of the experience. DJs, live bands and games like mini hockey, Spin-to-Win and Skeeball keep you entertained.
A turnkey experience, the market is fully built and move-in ready. So all planners need to do is book with a Convene sales representative.
Return to big celebrations
Large Christmas parties with over 200 guests are making a comeback in the UK. It marks a shift from the small, segmented gatherings that have become popular post-pandemic.
Highlights of the Call Christmas Market
- food and drink: Offering a raclette bar, handmade pizzas, fresh churros with toppings, mulled wine and festive cocktails.
- Après-ski lounge: Holiday classics guests love, like it’s a wonderful life On the big screen.
- interactive moment: Instagram-worthy moments include sledding rides, man-made ski trails and winter wonderlands.
Catering to changing tastes
Mocktails are becoming more and more popular. Ryan Simonetti, CEO and co-founder of Convene, said: “Convene has seen a 100% year-on-year increase in mocktails in its UK program and a 10% increase globally.”
In response, Convene now offers alcohol-free packages. The Christmas market offers mocktails, showcasing the ever-changing preferences of guests.
On December 12, Simonetti hosted an exclusive founders luncheon at the market. More than 300 people attended. Guests got hands-on experience with the product, building enthusiasm and booking for the 2025 season.
