The short version: start after sunset and choose a venue where you can dim the lights
What guests remember about a Christmas party is the atmosphere. In December the sun sets around 16:30 in Tokyo, so a party starting after 18:00 has a full night view. A high-floor venue with adjustable lighting feels seasonal even without much decoration (information as of October 2026).
Choosing the time slot
Weekday evenings suit parties for clients and partners — easy to attend after work and easier to book than weekends. Weekend evenings suit family or community holiday parties but are in high demand in December. Venue hours usually include teardown, so end the party 30–60 minutes before closing.
Food and drinks
A buffet of roasts, hors d'oeuvres and desserts feels festive. A venue that lets you choose any caterer makes it easier to fit your budget. If you want to bring champagne or wine, check for a corkage fee and refrigerators.
Photo-friendly touches
Keep the windows clear as a photo spot against the night view, rely on warm pendant lighting, and use the monitor for a photo slideshow or gift-draw results.
Flow of the evening
Put the reception near the entrance and drinks further inside. Winter means coats, so decide the cloakroom position early. A green room lets guests of honour wait comfortably before speeches.
At VELE AOYAMA
An 11th-floor lounge with a view, pendant lights and a bar counter; up to 100 standing (180 m²); free food and alcohol carry-in and the caterer of your choice, with four refrigerators (about 360 L) and a steam oven; a microphone and a 75-inch 4K monitor; a VIP room usable as a green room (paid, weekends and holidays only); directly connected to Aoyama-itchome Station Exit 0. Open 10:00–22:00; December weekend and holiday evenings are peak-season rates (pricing). See the gallery and the year-end and Christmas party guide, or request a viewing from the booking page.
