How We Have Fun for Christmas Events - Family Edition
At Sparks Museum, we transform the way families celebrate Christmas with unique traditions and festive experiences that evoke nostalgic holiday cheer. Join us this season!
Discover festive and enchanting ways to celebrate the holiday season
TL;DR (Quick Takeaways)
Sparks Museum offers unique, family-friendly Christmas events.
Enjoy nostalgic decor and festive activities perfect for all ages.
Discover ways to engage your family during holiday gatherings.
Learn about themed decorations that tell a story at each event.
Find out how to make memories by incorporating fun traditions.
Explore the value of community engagement during Christmas.
Tips for booking your desired date and making the most of your visit.
The holiday season is here, and with it comes festive cheer and joyous gatherings. At Sparks Museum and Event Center, we believe that Christmas is about creating unforgettable memories with your family. Imagine stepping back in time as twinkling lights dance upon beautifully adorned vintage decor, enlivening your spirit in an atmosphere that evokes nostalgia and warmth. Located in Provo, just a stone's throw from magnificent mountain views, our unique venue captures the essence of timeless elegance with modern functionality, making it the perfect spot for your family's Christmas events.
Whether you’re planning a cozy gathering or a full-blown festive celebration, this blog will walk you through all the fun we have during the Christmas season. Let's dive into the delightful ways we engage families, the activities planned, and how we transform our spaces into a festive wonderland.
Embracing Holiday Traditions
Enjoying Christmas with family.
When planning Christmas events, incorporating family traditions can add a sprinkle of magic. Sparks Museum encourages guests to bring their own holiday customs to our venue. For example, one family even made it a point to host an annual Christmas game night, where decorated tables turned into game stations. Their laughter echoed through our halls, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere.
From the arrival of traditional holiday music to the scent of hot cocoa filling the air, you could feel the family spirit.
"Every moment at Sparks is a treasured memory we create together as a family during the holidays."
Engaging in activities everyone can partake in strengthens familial bonds and celebrates the season. When you rent our venue, you can create space for ice-breaking family games and story-sharing sessions, intertwining your cherished traditions with ours.
Unique Family Activities in an Amazing Venue
You might think of Christmas events as straightforward parties, but we like to make them an enchanting experience at Sparks Museum. Here are some family-centric activities to consider when planning your event:
Holiday Craft Stations
We set up tables filled with materials for creating Christmas crafts that families can enjoy together. Families can create personalized ornaments or Christmas cards to exchange with one another. These engaging activities encourage creativity and teamwork, allowing everyone to take pieces of the day home to cherish.
Last year, a family incorporated a craft station where they created holiday wreaths from recycled materials—a perfect nod to sustainability while they honed their artistic skills. The laughter and collaboration were contagious!
Festive Storytelling Sessions
Every Christmas event evokes warmth and joy, and that can be extended through storytelling sessions around a cozy area of our venue. Invite your family members to share their favorite Christmas memories or stories, which often spark laughter and even tricky trivia on family history.
"Tell me a story, and I’ll tell you how we spent Christmas when I was a kid."
Such exchanges allow the younger members of the family to appreciate the traditions that have come before them.
Family singing karaoke for Christmas.
Christmas Karaoke
Bring a microphone and watch as your family performs their favorite holiday classics! At Sparks Museum, we can set up a simple karaoke station where talents can shine. This is a fantastic way to encourage shy family members to showcase their vocals and entertain others! Just imagine a group rendition of “Jingle Bells” that turns into an unexpected dance-off.
Delicious Holiday Catering - A Treat for All
Waiting for the festivities to start.
Food is often the heart of any event, particularly during Christmas. We partner with exceptional local caterers to provide delicious holiday fare tailored to please palates of all ages.
Imagine a cheerful buffet filled with festive dishes like turkey, honey-glazed ham, or vegetarian options that are celebrated by your family. Desserts like peppermint bark and gingerbread cookies mixed with warm apple cider create that cozy ambiance that instantly uplifts spirits. Whatever option you choose, everyone will appreciate a moment shared over a good meal.
"The smells of holiday treats can simply transform a room. It brings everyone together, and you can feel the joy of the holidays!"
Families can even choose to cook together, collaborating on preparing dishes that will be served at the gathering. Teaching the younger generations about family recipes and cooking can imbue them with a sense of belonging and legacy.
A Themed Experience Tailored to All Ages
Sparks Museum's enchanting vintage ambiance, with its art deco details and curated decor, infuses every Christmas event with a magical atmosphere. Consider creating a specific Christmas theme for your event to enhance the experience for all age groups.
Classic Christmas
Think traditional decorations with a dash of modern flair. Classic red and green color schemes, adorned Christmas trees with glittering lights, and antique ornaments will create a nostalgic atmosphere. Add classic Christmas carols to the playlist and even invite families to join in a carol circle, weaving back to the essence of holiday gatherings from yesteryears.
Whimsical Winter Wonderland
Transform our venue into a whimsical wonderland by incorporating snowy elements, playful lighting, and themed decorations. Imagine frosty centerpieces creating a magical ambiance as families navigate a space that feels like a snow globe. Invite a local performer to surprise everyone with a puppet show or entertaining holiday stories to captivate your audience!
Cozy Family Reunion
Invite families who haven't seen each other in years to celebrate not just Christmas, but reconnection! Encouraging shared moments over crafts, games, and storytelling. We like to create a living room feel, with blankets, hot chocolate, and comfy seating. Create a space for cuddly family pictures, and don't forget to encourage fun wardrobe choices, ugly sweaters optional but highly encouraged!
Nothing screams Christmas better than an ugly sweater photo booth.
Interactive Entertainment to Keep Everyone Engaged
At Sparks Museum, we believe that interaction makes for unforgettable memories. Consider these alternatives for interactive entertainment during your Christmas events:
Photo Booth Fun
Set up a festive photo booth filled with props, costumes, and seasonal backgrounds. Capture the joy and laughter with photos that families can use as keepsakes! We can curate a retro-themed booth that captures the holiday vibe perfectly!
Live Local Entertainment
Hiring a local band or performer during your event brings the celebration to life! Engage a chamber choir or live musicians that can enchant your guests with beautiful renditions of classic holiday songs. Not only does this elevate the experience, but it also supports local artists!
"Every year, we hire the best local talent to bring joy to our community during Christmas! The memories last a lifetime!"
Finding Your Perfect Christmas Event Date
Booking your family Christmas event requires special consideration. Oftentimes, venues fill up quickly during the festive season, especially at Sparks Museum. Here are some tips on securing your desired date within your schedule:
Start Early: Begin planning your event in early summer to ensure that preferred dates are available.
Flexibility: If you can host your event on non-peak dates—such as weekdays or early December—you may have better chances of securing a booking.
Collaborate: Team with another family to co-host events, allowing you to share the venue costs.
Maximize Time: Make the most out of your allotted time by planning a detailed schedule of activities!
Creating an Event Timeline
Having a timeline can help navigate through your Christmas event seamlessly.
2-4 weeks before the event: Finalize guest lists, send out invitations, and confirm catering options.
1 week before: Touch base with Sparks Museum to review your plans and finalize seating arrangements.
Day of event: Arrive early to decorate! Make sure to enjoy the moments leading up to the event with family.
Making it a Merry Memory
Capture the Moments: Hire a professional photographer to document important milestones. From tender moments creating crafts to the laughter shared during storytelling, you won’t want these treasured moments lost in time.
Create a Family Time Capsule: Encourage everyone to contribute something small, like a note or memento, that signifies this Christmas celebration. Bury it in your backyard or keep it safe at Sparks Museum until it’s time to open it years later!
FAQs
Q1: How do I book a Christmas event at Sparks Museum?
To schedule your holiday gathering, visit our website or contact our team. We’re here to create the perfect experience for you!
Q2: What is included when renting the venue?
When renting Sparks Museum, you have access to stunning spaces with vintage decor, tables, chairs, and AV equipment—everything you need to make your event standout.
Q3: Are there any holiday-specific catering options?
Absolutely! We partner with premier catering services to offer festive menus rich with holiday flavor. From traditional meals to delightful desserts, our options will cater to every palate.
Q4: Can I bring my decorations?
Of course! Personalize your event by bringing decorations that resonate with your family’s signature style!
Q5: What kinds of activities are suitable for children?
Our venue supports a range of family-friendly activities, from crafts and storytelling sessions to holiday-themed games—something for everyone
Q6: Are there nearby attractions for families visiting Provo during Christmas?
Definitely! Local attractions such as the Provo City Center Temple's Festival of Lights create lovely memories for families visiting during the holidays.
Q7: How can I ensure that my event is stress-free?
Planning well in advance, being flexible with your choices, and collaborating with loved ones can help create a joyful experience, allowing you to savor every moment.
Conclusion
The holiday season at Sparks Museum and Event Center is more than just a gathering; it’s an opportunity to sprinkle joy, laughter, and shared moments amongst family and friends. With our team dedicated to creating a unique experience, feel free to leverage our vintage charm, engage in interactive activities, and celebrate your cherished family traditions. Don't wait—book your Christmas event now and let us help you create memories worth cherishing for years to come. Contact us today to book your date and explore the magic of the holiday season at Sparks Museum!
For more inspiration, discover our guide on holiday parties in Utah County and how to make every moment filled with cheer and joy!
Did you know…when you choose a locally owned wedding venue you are helping to develop and improve the local economy? It’s true, your locally owned wedding venues are small business owners who not only create hundreds of jobs for the local wedding industry every year, we actively support our local economy. Please consider a locally owned venue, you can find locally owned wedding venues featured on this wedding venue map.
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How to Throw a Corporate Holiday Party Everyone Will Talk About (In a Good Way…this time)
Planning a corporate Christmas party in Utah County? Here's how to turn the typical end-of-year gathering into a memorable, meaningful celebration your team will actually enjoy—without blowing the budget or stressing out your planning committee.
🎁 TL;DR: What You Actually Need to Know
Planning a corporate Christmas party in Utah County? The key to success: Pick the right venue, add one or two wow-factor moments, feed people well, and keep things flexible but organized. Sparks Museum and Event Center in Provo is a favorite among companies for a reason—it’s stylish, unique, and totally customizable. Add great lighting (like Moonlight Lighting), some smart activity choices, and your team won’t stop talking about it until next Christmas.
Why Corporate Christmas Parties Still Matter
Let’s be honest, most teams are stretched thin by the end of the year. A good holiday party isn’t fluff, it’s a pressure release valve.
Done right, it boosts morale, strengthens relationships, and reminds employees that leadership sees their work. Skip it, and you might hear whispers of “Guess we didn’t rate this year.”
In my experience, companies that throw solid, not stiff holiday events tend to retain their best people. It’s not just about food and drink, it’s about creating shared memories. And in corporate life, that’s rare.
The Best Venue for a Corporate Holiday Party in Utah County
You’ve got choices in Utah County, but here’s why Sparks Museum and Event Center should be at the top of your list.
Located in the heart of Provo, Sparks offers:
A flexible layout with both modern and vintage backdrops
Space for up to 500 people (more with outdoor add-ons)
Easy parking and walkability
An atmosphere that’s upscale without being uptight
Whether you’re planning a casual mingle or a more formal dinner party, this event space in Utah County adjusts to you—not the other way around.
Corporate holiday party at Sparks Museum and Event Center in Provo, Utah, featuring guests dining under vintage neon signs and nostalgic gas station decor and a lively atmosphere.
What Makes Sparks Museum So Unique?
Unlike hotel ballrooms or restaurant backrooms, Sparks has personality. You’re not just booking a box with chairs. You’re walking into a space that can be classy, edgy, nostalgic, or all three.
You’ve got exposed brick, curated museum pieces, and customizable lighting options that transform the space from “Hey, this is nice” to “Whoa, this is cool.”
And yes, you can bring in your own food vendors or catering team. Want to go all-out with a dessert bar or mocktail station? Go for it.
10 Creative Ideas for a Corporate Holiday Party
You don’t need to reinvent Christmas—just give it a fun, slightly unexpected spin. Here are ten ideas that work well at Sparks:
1. Winter in the City Theme
Think skyline backdrops, faux snow, jazz trio, and fancy hot chocolate.
2. Ugly Sweater Gala
Lean into it. Set a dress code, hand out awards, and hire a photographer.
3. "Reindeer Games" Team Olympics
🦌 “Reindeer Games” Team Olympics: How to Pull It Off (Without Losing Dignity)
Team-building can go sideways fast if it’s too forced or too boring. But if you strike the right balance, it becomes a highlight of the night. Here’s how to do that with holiday flair:
🧠 Step 1: Pick 3–5 Quick, Funny Challenges
Keep each game under 5 minutes and make sure the rules are simple enough to explain in 30 seconds.
Some tried-and-true options:
Gift Wrap Relay – Each person wraps an empty box wearing oven mitts. Fastest team wins.
Snowball Toss – Use large marshmallows and buckets. Teammates toss marshmallows into their partner’s Santa hat.
Holiday Movie Trivia – Short, team-based quiz. Bonus if the questions are slightly ridiculous.
Candy Cane Pickup – Using a candy cane in their mouth (no hands), players try to hook as many mini candy canes out of a bowl as possible in 30 seconds.
Reindeer Ring Toss – One team member wears inflatable antlers while the others toss rings. Yes, it’s hilarious.
👥 Step 2: Organize Teams Ahead of Time
If possible, assign teams in advance and give them fun names like “The Sleigh Riders,” “Jingle Bosses,” or “Yule Be Sorry.” This avoids awkward “who do I team with?” moments during the party.
🪜 Step 3: Set Up Simple Stations
Each challenge can be its own station, or you can rotate teams through one main game area. Label each with a sign, and keep a scoreboard nearby for some light competition.
Tip: Have a few prizes on hand—Starbucks cards, goofy trophies, or candy boxes work fine.
🎤 Step 4: Appoint a Fun Emcee
It could be your HR director with a Santa hat or someone from your marketing team who secretly loves attention. This person will explain each game, announce winners, and keep the energy light and positive.
🕒 Step 5: Cap the Whole Thing at 30–40 Minutes
You want just enough competition to spark laughter and teamwork—not to exhaust people. Time it right before food or dessert for max turnout.
4. DIY S'mores & Cocoa Bar
Set up a roasting station outside (yes, even in winter—just add heaters).
5. Charity Drive Station
Let employees pick a cause and drop off toys, coats, or food.
6. Holiday Murder Mystery Night
Use the museum vibe to lean into mystery. Bonus if people get to dress up.
7. White Elephant with a Twist
All gifts must be under $10 and weird. Real weird. Add a “host commentary” mic for fun.
8. Photo Booth with Green Screen Magic
Place your team in the North Pole… or on a ski lift… or in an '80s holiday card.
9. Live Music Lounge
Local acoustic artist + dim lighting + cocktail/mocktail bar = relaxed vibe.
10. Silent Disco Snowstorm
❄️ Silent Disco Snowstorm: What It Is and How to Make It Work
Imagine this: You walk into the event space. The room is glowing with holiday lights, there’s “snow” gently falling from above… But instead of loud music blasting from speakers, everyone’s wearing headphones—and dancing.
It’s called a Silent Disco, and it’s more fun (and less awkward) than it sounds.
🎧 What’s a Silent Disco?
Each guest gets a pair of wireless headphones. The music plays through those, not through a speaker system. Usually, guests can switch between a couple of music ” channels,” like:
Classic holiday tunes
Top 40 or dance hits
A mellow lounge mix for introverts
People dance, sing along, and laugh—but only those with headphones hear the music. If you take your headphones off, the room is oddly quiet except for the occasional off-key Mariah Carey sing-along.
It feels surreal—and that’s the magic.
🌨️ Add the Snowstorm
At Sparks, you can take this up a notch with foam snow machines (yes, they’re a thing). These produce soft, lightweight “snow” that fills the room and gives off serious winter wonderland vibes—without the cold, the mess, or the lawsuits.
Combine the two? You’ve got the Silent Disco Snowstorm.
🧠 Why It Works for Corporate Events
No sound restrictions – Perfect if you’re hosting in a space where noise curfews apply (or you just don’t want to shout over the music).
Inclusive – People can participate or just watch without pressure. Even wallflowers love it.
Photo-worthy – A sea of people dancing under foam snow in glowing headphones? That’s social media gold.
✅ What You’ll Need
A silent disco headphone rental company (they deliver and pick up)
A few music playlists or DJs (some services come with preloaded channels)
Foam snow machine (check with Sparks staff or Moonlight Lighting for recommendations)
One or two staff or volunteers to hand out and collect headphones
Use the rich sounds of headphones for a Winter Siletn Disco or Rave.
Case Study: The Britech Holiday Bash
Leading Edge Media is a tech company in Orem. Last year, their holiday party was a flop, held in the office with pizza and a playlist.
This year? They booked Sparks Museum and Event Center, brought in Crazy Holiday Lighting to create a moody green and gold ambiance, and went with a retro-holiday-film theme. Think: Charlie Brown trees, movie reels looping It’s a Wonderful Life, and black-and-white photo ops.
They hired a local food truck to serve gourmet sliders and set up a “Grinch Karaoke” corner that got surprisingly competitive.
Afterward, employees said it was the best company event they’d ever attended, and for the first time, people outside of work talked about how fun their office was.
What to Ask Before You Book a Holiday Venue
Here’s your quick checklist before you lock anything in:
Is your preferred date still available? (December fills fast.)
What’s included in the rental? (Chairs, tables, cleanup?)
Can you bring your own food and drink—or does it have to go through a vendor?
What’s the cancellation/reschedule policy?
Is there an option for additional hours if the party’s a hit?
How early can you set up?
The Sparks Museum and Event Center team is known for being flexible and transparent. They’ll walk you through every step, from early setup to last call.
Did you know…when you choose a locally owned wedding venue you are helping to develop and improve the local economy? It’s true, your locally owned wedding venues are small business owners who not only create hundreds of jobs for the local wedding industry every year, we actively support our local economy. Please consider a locally owned venue, you can find locally owned wedding venues featured on this wedding venue map.