This Season, Here’s Where to Host an Unforgettable Holiday Party in Boston

Presented by: Boston Magazine

Whether you’re heading into a holiday season of small gatherings and nights out or fundraisers and company-wide events, September is the time to book a gorgeous venue for your next occasion. Our annual list has dozens of locations, modern and classic, intimate and expansive, to host the perfect party.

Check out our curated guide to the area’s top venues that can help you create an unforgettable winter affair.

Venue Guide

When it comes time to book your event, here’s our guide to the area’s top venues.

Alibi Bar & Lounge

Unwrap the magic of the holidays at Alibi Bar & Lounge, nestled in the transformed Charles Street Jail within the luxurious Liberty Hotel. This festive season, step into a world of vintage charm with original bluestone floors, brick cell walls, and plush seating, all complemented by cheeky celebrity “alibis.” Enjoy expertly crafted cocktails and late-night snacks in a cozy, dimly lit atmosphere. Join Alibi for an unforgettable holiday gathering in a truly unique setting. Cheers to a festive celebration at Alibi!

Boston | 857-241-1144

alibiboston.com/private-events | IG: @alibiboston

The Artisan Hotel at Tuscan Village

Elevate your social events and gatherings to a new level of sophistication at The Artisan Hotel. With a touch of modern vintage charm, their versatile event venues set the stage for unforgettable moments amidst the beauty of Salem, NH.

Salem, NH | 603-912-8450

theartisanhotelattuscanvillage.com/gatherings-occasions | IG: @theartisanhotelattuscanvillage

Boston Athenaeum

Founded in 1807, the Boston Athenaeum is one of the oldest independent libraries in the country. Its unique and versatile event spaces make it a hidden gem for those seeking an immersive experience. From lively strolling receptions to corporate dinners and milestone tributes, this recently renovated old-world landmark now boasts a modern twist. Recently awarded Boston magazine’s 2023 Best Place to Throw a Party, it’s the perfect venue for your next event.

Boston, MA | 781-982-9333

thecateredaffair.com/our-venues/boston-athenaeum | IG: @thecateredaffair @bostonathenaeum

Boston Chops Downtown

Boston Chops Downtown has three private rooms to meet all your dining needs. From intimate gatherings of eight to spectacular celebrations for 330, Boston Chops will create a perfect experience for any occasion. Boston Chops is the only steakhouse located in the heart of the Theatre District and is perfect for pre-event dinners or post-show cocktails.

Boston | 617-580-3580

bostonchops.com/group-dining-1 | IG: @bostonchops

Boston Chops South End

Boston Chops South End offers unique group dining options. From intimate gatherings of eight to grand affairs with 200 of your closest friends, Boston Chops will design the perfect evening for any celebration.

Boston | 617-227-5011

bostonchops.com/group-dining-1 | IG: @bostonchops

Capo Restaurant and Supper Club

Capo is a destination with turn of the century timelessness blended with the charm of the Italian countryside. The dynamic venue boasts over 8,000 square feet of customizable space that is both rustic and refined. With an 18-foot, wood-burning fireplace and bustling open kitchen, this is the perfect atmosphere for any occasion ranging from 20 to 360 guests. Tucked underneath Capo Restaurant, the Supper Club is a 4,000-square-foot subterranean lounge that hosts up to 300 guests. It features a full bar, a stage with AV capabilities, DJ booth, and specialty lighting. For a full buy-out, guests also can use the private street entrance.

Boston | 617-993-8080

caposouthboston.com | IG: @caposouthbos @supperclubsouthboston

dbar

dbar is Dorchester’s premiere destination for fine dining, delicious cocktails, and exciting nightlife. The venue offers both indoor and outdoor spaces for private events.

Dorchester, MA | 617-265-4490

dbarboston.com | IG: @dbarboston

East Meets West at The Exchange

The Exchange is a private event venue operated by award-winning East Meets West Catering. Located on Boston’s Historic Fish Pier in the heart of the vibrant Seaport, The Exchange is close to many of the city’s finest hotels, major highways, and Logan Airport. Striking architecture, sweeping harbor views, expert event planners, and innovative cuisine make The Exchange a top choice for all your social and corporate events.

Boston | 617-269-2662

exchangeconferencecenter.com | IG: @exchangecenterboston | FB: Exchange Conference Center

Harvard Art Museums

Host your event at the Harvard Art Museums in Cambridge, Massachusetts, for an unforgettable experience. Your guests will enter a world where culture, artistry, and sophistication blend seamlessly amidst Renaissance-inspired architecture. Whether planning a milestone tribute, corporate event, or wedding, Harvard Art Museums provides a unique and memorable setting for your celebration.

Cambridge, MA | 781-982-9333

thecateredaffair.com/our-venues/harvard-art-museums | IG: @thecateredaffair @harvardartmuseums

Hilton Boston Park Plaza

For almost 100 years, Hilton Boston Park Plaza has been the setting for spectacular events. This year, make the hotel the backdrop for your unforgettable holiday party. From lavish affairs to intimate gatherings, the hotel offers a number of unique spaces, from the urban chic Avenue 34 to the classic grandeur of The Grand Ballroom and everything in between. Experience for yourself the impeccable service and warm ambiance of this Boston landmark.

Boston; 617-426-2000

hiltonbostonparkplaza.com | IG: @hiltonbostonparkplaza

Hunter’s Kitchen & Bar

Bringing Southern inspired food to the heart of South Boston. Hunter’s offers a full bar wrapped around the center of the dining room creating the perfect atmosphere for any celebration. Enclosed in reclaimed wood for a vintage hunting lodge feel. The space includes a large window scape for the summer months and two fireplaces to offer warmth and comfort during the winter months. Hunter’s can accommodate groups as intimate as 20 guests and as large as 110.

Boston | 617-221-4200

hunterssouthboston.com | IG: @huntersboston

Institute of Contemporary Art/Boston

At the Institute of Contemporary Art Boston, guests are instantly captivated by its diverse and contemporary collections. The venue offers multiple floor plan options both along the harbor and indoors. Experience floor-to-ceiling glass windows that provide breathtaking views of the Boston skyline, a sight that sets the stage for an unforgettable event. Embark on a sumptuous affair as dazzling as the city lights surrounding you.

Boston | 781-982-9333

thecateredaffair.com/our-venues/institute-of-contemporary-art | IG: @thecateredaffair @icaboston

Legal Sea Foods

Make a splash when you celebrate the holidays with Legal Sea Foods this season! With venues throughout Massachusetts, Legal Sea Foods offers private and semi-private spaces as well as full venue buyouts for your business or social celebrations. Legal Sea Foods’ flexible packages allow them to accommodate as many kinds of functions as there are fish in the sea! Host your event at Legal Sea Foods—you’re guaranteed great food and wine, hospitality, and easy planning.

Locations Throughout Massachusetts | (617) 530-9432

legalseafoods.com/private-events-lp | IG: @legalseafoods

Lincoln Tavern & Restaurant

Located in the heart of South Boston, Lincoln is a classic American tavern that offers guests a welcoming combination of home-spun, American fare alongside a variety of rustic, wood-fire-grilled specialties. Revitalizing a nearly forgotten West Broadway space that once housed the area’s only department store, Lincoln feels nostalgic. Its open-air, tiled-floor cafe and original tin ceilings remind you of a time when dining halls and supper clubs were a way of life. The space is perfect for intimate gatherings or large receptions with up to 360 guests. It’s equipped with a stage and full A/V capabilities as well as floor to ceiling windows that allow plenty of natural light to flood the space.

Boston | 617-765-8636

lincolnsouthboston.com | IG: @lincolnsouthbos

Mistral

Discover Boston’s renowned French dining destination, led by acclaimed Chef/Owner Jamie Mammano. Nestled in the South End, Mistral presents Chef Mammano’s exquisite French Mediterranean fare, showcasing the freshest seasonal ingredients. Inspired by the breezy essence of the French Riviera, Mistral’s ambiance echoes Provencal charm, featuring hand-selected French ceramics, lofty ceilings, and sweeping arched windows. For intimate gatherings, Le Salon du Mistral, its private dining space, accommodates up to 60 seated guests or 80 for receptions. Complimentary car service awaits patrons at 223 Columbus Avenue between Berkeley and Clarendon Streets.

Boston | 617-867-9300

mistralbistro.com | IG: @MistralRestaurant | FB: MistralRestaurant

New England Aquarium

Give your guests the gift of dining among penguins, sharks, and sea turtles while demonstrating your commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility. The New England Aquarium offers a beautiful setting for corporate holiday events beside Boston’s scenic skyline, with the Giant Ocean Tank, Penguin Exhibit and Shark and Ray Touch Tank providing stunning backdrops. Their expert planning team will take the stress out of the holidays so you can focus on your guests and enjoy your event.

Boston | 617-973-5205

neaq.org/engage/host-an-event | IG: @newenglandaquarium

Ostra

Ostra, located at One Charles Street South in Boston’s Back Bay, is a contemporary Mediterranean restaurant. Inspired by local and European varieties of seafood, Chef/Owner Jamie Mammano and Executive Chef Mitchell Randall focus on specialty seafood found throughout the Mediterranean and regions within the U.S. The light preparation of its cuisine highlights the natural and fresh flavors of each dish. The dining room at Ostra evokes a sense of style and sophistication in a comfortable and inviting setting. Ostra’s private dining room accommodates up to 42 for a seated event and up to 70 for a cocktail reception.

Boston | 617-421-1200

ostraboston.com | IG: @ostraboston | FB: OstraBoston

Party Rental Ltd.

Established in 1972, Party Rental Ltd. is one of the nation’s leading event rental companies. Here in Boston, they bring that same dedication to service, quality, and innovation to every party and event.

The local Boston team leverages extensive industry experience and design expertise to partner with you and ensure a first-class experience for your special occasion.

As a family-owned and controlled company, Party Rental Ltd. cares about doing what’s right for the Boston community. They strive to provide the best in terms of quality, delivery, and service, which is why you’ll see their iconic hippo trucks delivering throughout the city!

Boston | 844-GO-HIPPO

partyrentalltd.com | IG: @partyrentalltd

Roadrunner

Winning Best of Boston’s Best Large Music Venue two years in a row, you don’t want to miss a show here! Thinking of where to host your next holiday party, mixer, or corporate event? Check Roadrunner out for a unique backdrop to your next event!

Boston | 617-952-1305

roadrunnerboston.com | IG: @roadrunnerboston

The Red Lion Inn: Barn

Rustic charm meets coastal ease at the Red Lion Inn, Cohasset. Built in 1704, the historic inn features a grand barn venue with stunning chandeliers, picturesque gardens, and multiple bars with enough space to host up to 250 guests. Whether you are planning an intimate wedding, a sophisticated corporate event or a festive family gathering this holiday season, every celebration at the Red Lion Inn will be infused with gracious hospitality and New England elegance.

Cohasset, MA | 781-383-1704

redlioninn1704.com | IG: @redlioninncohasset

The Red Lion Inn: Hillside House

The Hillside House is a gorgeous one-of-a-kind space that is perfect for your intimate wedding, corporate gathering, or social event. Filled with natural stone and soft seaside colors, the ambiance is set for a simply elegant event. The Hillside House can accommodate 90 guests for a seated dinner and up to 200 guests for a standing celebration. Get in touch with the Events Team at eventplanning@cohassethospitality.com to start planning your next event.

Cohasset, MA | 781-383-1704

redlioninn1704.com | IG: @redlioninncohasset

Rochambeau

Experience the magic of the holiday season at Rochambeau! The enchanting venue captivates guests with its stunning modern charm and French-influenced décor, making every visit feel like a trip to the City of Lights. With five unique spaces and full venue buyout options, Rochambeau is the perfect setting for your holiday celebrations. Join Rochambeau and create unforgettable memories in a truly spellbinding atmosphere. Rochambeau looks forward to welcoming you soon for an extraordinary experience!

Boston | 617-247-0400

rochambeauboston.com/private-events | IG: @rochambeaubos

Scampo

This holiday season, immerse yourself in a unique culinary journey at Scampo, where award-winning chef Lydia Shire’s bold Italian-inspired cuisine takes center stage. Located in the historic Liberty Hotel, Scampo combines chic Italian design with a glorious open kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere for festive gatherings. Indulge in rustic yet refined dishes that defy borders, blending Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors. Whether for an intimate dinner or a grand celebration, Scampo promises an unforgettable holiday experience. Scampo can’t wait to welcome you!

Boston | 617-536-2100

scampoboston.com/events | IG: @scampoboston

The Sinclair

Nestled in the city’s most recognized campuses, the Sinclair has been bringing music and events to students and the local community for the last 10 years! Be sure to check the Sinclair out and ask about hosting your next event with them! The Sinclair can host events of up to 500 attendees!

Cambridge, MA | 323-513-6222

sinclaircambridge.com | IG: @thesinclair

Smith & Wollensky

Whether your event is for business or pleasure, S&W has you covered this Holiday Season. Expect the exceptional with our multitude of beautiful event spaces, distinctive dining rooms, flexible package options, and warm S&W hospitality. Our dedicated event professionals are your go-to resource for planning your Holiday event at Smith & Wollensky’s locations in Boston, Wellesley, or Burlington. Inquire today to get the best spaces and your preferred date!

Boston | 617-778-2200

smithandwollensky.com/locations/boston | IG: @smithwollensky

Sorellina

Located in the heart of Boston’s historic Copley Square, renowned Chef/Owner Jamie Mammano’s Italian inspired Sorellina presents modern interpretations of classic Italian cuisine with an emphasis on distinct preparations of the season’s best offerings. The extensive wine list follows the same inspiration by offering a mix of classic and contemporary selections with a focus on Italy’s most reputable producers. The dining room at Sorellina evokes a sense of comfort and sophistication with its invitingly warm-modern design and chic decor, serving as the perfect backdrop for Chef Mammano’s cuisine. Sorellina is located at One Huntington Avenue in Copley Square.

Boston | 617-412-4600

sorellinaboston.com | IG: @sorellinaboston | FB: Sorellina Boston

The Stage @ Suffolk Downs

One of the newest venues in the Bowery Presents portfolio is the Stage @ Suffolk Downs. With an 8,000-person capacity, this outdoor space can be transformed in to anything you can think of!

Boston | 617-952-1305

stageatsuffolkdowns.com | IG: @thestageatsd

Strega Italiano

Whether your holiday events are on a large scale or more intimate, the Private Events team at Strega Italiano will work with you to ensure that every detail, from the food to the ambiance, is perfect. It’s the personal touches that make an event special, and their professional staff will make sure you and your guests have an unforgettable experience. Get in touch today to reserve your date in Back Bay or the Seaport this holiday season.

Boston | 617-345-3992

stregaitaliano.com | IG: @strega.italiano

Tuscan Kitchen Burlington

Tuscan Kitchen Burlington’s experienced hospitality team will skillfully coordinate and customize all details of your gathering or celebration, from baby and bridal showers to weddings and business meetings. Their thoughtfully curated event spaces are designed to entertain your guests with exceptional service and artisanal cuisine to provide you and your guests with a memorable experience.

Burlington, MA | 781-229-0300

tuscanbrands.com/private-events | IG: @tuscankitchen

Tuscan Kitchen Seaport

Imagine your next cocktail party or gathering in the vibrant Boston, Seaport! Be seen in Tuscan Kitchen Seaport’s gorgeous floor to ceiling glass cocktail lounges and private bar spaces, and overlook the beautiful Boston city skyline and Martins Park. Tuscan Kitchen Seaport’s variety of spaces are customizable, allowing you to create the perfect backdrop for your beautifully curated event.

Boston | 617-303-7300

tuscanbrands.com/seaport-private-dining | IG: @tuscankitchen