Holiday Party Entertainment by Company Size
The right entertainment for a 40-person team dinner would be lost in a ballroom of 400, and a twelve-piece band would overwhelm a private dining room. Guest count is the fastest way to narrow the choice.
These are the sizes Avalon Music recommends. They are starting points, and the venue, the style and the energy you want all move the answer.
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Small Parties: 30 to 75 Guests
A duo or trio works for intimate settings. Think of a jazz trio, a string ensemble or a solo musician for a team dinner, a partner reception or a party in the office.
A duo or trio needs about 8 by 8 feet of floor space, so it fits rooms where a full band cannot. If the group wants to dance, a DJ is the other good fit at this size.
Mid-Size Parties: 75 to 200 Guests
A 4 to 6 piece band suits mid-size venues. This is the range where most companies book a variety or dance band that can play dinner music first and dance sets after.
Plan for 12 by 16 feet of floor space for the band.
Large Parties: 200 to 500 Guests and Up
A full 8 to 12 piece band is recommended for the most energy in a large room. Horn sections and several vocalists fill a ballroom in a way a small group cannot.
A band this size needs 16 by 24 feet or more. For larger venues, Avalon may recommend supplemental sound so the music reaches the back of the room.
Size at a Glance
- 30 to 75 guests
- Duo or trio. About 8 by 8 feet.
- 75 to 200 guests
- 4 to 6 piece band. About 12 by 16 feet.
- 200 to 500 guests and up
- 8 to 12 piece band. 16 by 24 feet or more.
- Any size
- A DJ, or a band-and-DJ combo for continuous music.
Other Things That Change the Answer
- The venue. A long narrow room or a low ceiling can call for a smaller act than the headcount suggests.
- The program. If the night is mostly dinner and awards, background music may be all you need.
- How many guests will dance. A room of 300 where 50 people dance is a different job from one where everyone does.
- Several rooms or floors. Avalon can book separate ensembles for different parts of the evening.
- Power. Bands need 2 to 3 dedicated 20-amp electrical circuits.
Frequently Asked Questions
How big a band do we need for 150 guests?
A 4 to 6 piece band can work for mid-size events of 75 to 200 guests. Band size also depends on your venue, the style of music and the energy level you want.
Can a small ensemble work for a large party?
Yes, when the music is a backdrop. A string ensemble or jazz group suits a large cocktail reception. For a packed dance floor at a large party, a full 8 to 12 piece band is recommended.
Do we need to provide a stage?
A formal stage is not required. A flat, level area works. For outdoor events, a covered area is usually required.
Do you book entertainment for very small or very large parties?
Yes. Whether it is 30 guests or 500, Avalon has an act that fits a holiday celebration.