Christmas party catering: Free price quote • Quick response

Christmas party catering

Christmas parties are a highly valued tradition in Norwegian working life, an opportunity to bring colleagues together for good food, drink and pleasant company. A successful Christmas party can strengthen unity and create valuable memories.

Catering can significantly simplify the planning and ensure that everyone has a tasty and memorable experience, without anyone having to spend their working hours organizing the details of the food service themselves.

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What does wedding catering cost? 

The price of Christmas party catering varies depending on the choice of menu, number of guests and type of service. For a traditional Christmas party with a classic Christmas menu and table service, the price is usually between NOK 600-1000 per envelope. If you choose a simpler buffet solution, the price can start at around NOK 300-400 per guest. 

Drinks often make up a significant part of the budget. Calculate at least NOK 200-400 per person in addition if a welcome drink, wine with the food and coffee are to be served. For a full evening package with an open bar, the drinks budget can easily reach NOK 600-1000 per head. 

Price examples of common catering solutions for Christmas parties: 

  • Christmas tapas with snacks and finger food: From NOK 300 per person  
  • Cold table with hot and cold Christmas dishes: From NOK 400 per person  
  • Combi buffet with starter, main course and dessert: From NOK 700 per person  
  • Full evening Christmas table package with welcome drink and free bar: From NOK 1200 per person 

Larger companies tend to achieve better prices per envelope than small companies. Timing also plays a role – catering in the middle of the week is often cheaper than at weekends when demand is highest. Most caterers tailor offers to suit the customer’s budget and wishes. The more detailed and specific the request, the easier it is for them to give an exact price. Be clear about the number of guests, desired menu and maximum budget, and they’ll suggest solutions accordingly. 

With a little planning and flexibility, it’s entirely possible to have a great Christmas party with good food and drink at an affordable price. Start planning early to ensure the best selection of dates and suppliers. 

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What is most commonly served at a Christmas party? 

A traditional Norwegian Christmas party usually consists of a combination of hot and cold dishes, with good, classic Christmas food at the center. The menu can vary from region to region, and many choose to put their own stamp on it, but here are some regulars: 

Cold dishes and starters

  • Gravlax and smoked salmon with mustard sauce 
  • Bacon and fennel legs with side dishes 
  • Jam and roll with beetroot 
  • Cold, boiled Christmas ham 
  • Roast beef and turkey 
  • Waldorf salad and potato salad 
  • Christmas herring and pickled herring 
  • Homemade liver pate 
  • Prawns and seafood 
  • Cheese and flatbread  

Hot dishes and main course

  • Ribs with crispy pork rind 
  • Stick meat with turnip mash 
  • Christmas sausages and medister cakes 
  • Roast duck or turkey 
  • Rice pudding and rice pudding 
  • Sauerkraut and red cabbage 
  • Medisterkaker and patties 
  • Lutefisk with pea stew, bacon, syrup 
  • Christmas porridge with butter eye  

Dessert and sweets

  • Rice pudding with red sauce 
  • Caramel pudding 
  • Veiled peasant girls 
  • Christmas cookies and syrup shavings 
  • Crumb cakes, goro and sand cakes 
  • Confectionery and chocolate 
  • Fruit salad and fresh fruit  

Many caterers offer both traditional and non-traditional Christmas table menus. Some choose to serve the food as a buffet, allowing guests to help themselves to their favorite dishes. Others prefer a more formal, multi-course dinner with table service. Finger food versions of Christmas table classics are also popular, often combined with tapas or street food-inspired appetizers. 

Regardless of the form of service, it’s important to have plenty of food so that no one leaves the table hungry. Active dialog with the caterer ensures a menu that suits the company’s size, preferences and schedule, whether you want a classic Christmas party or a new twist on tradition. 

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How much food do you calculate per at a Christmas party? 

Plenty of food is the key to a successful Christmas party. Here are some rules of thumb for calculating food quantities: 

  • Starter: 100-150 g per person 
  • Main course: 350-500 g per person 
  • Dessert: 100-150 g per person 
  • Cakes and sweets: 2-3 pieces per person 

For Christmas buffets with many courses, you should calculate a total of 700-900 g of food per guest. This may seem like a lot, but experience shows that people tend to eat more than usual when there’s a Christmas buffet with a tempting selection of dishes. 

Of course, the quantities also depend on the composition of the guests and the time frame of the event. If there are more men or people with a good appetite, more food will be needed than if the majority eat little. A Christmas party lasting several hours also requires more food than a short lunch. The catering company will help you adapt the quantities for your party based on the chosen menu and layout. They have extensive experience in calculating quantities for different types of events. 

An important rule of thumb is that a little too much food is better than a little too little. Leftovers can always be sent home with the guests or eaten the next day. Running out of food too early, on the other hand, is a recipe for disappointment. 

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How much drink do you calculate per person for a Christmas party? 

The amount of drinks at a Christmas party can vary greatly depending on the company’s culture and preferences, but here are some general calculations per guest: 

  • Welcome drink: 1 glass (approx. 1 dl) 
  • Wine with food: 1/2 – 1 bottle (4-8 dl) 
  • Beer: 2-3 pints (6-10 dl) 
  • Drinks/avec: 2-3 units (4-6 cl) 
  • Water/soda: 1/2 – 1 liter 
  • Coffee/tea: 2-3 cups (4-6 cl) 

For a Christmas party lasting 3-4 hours, you can calculate approx. 1-1.5 liters of drinks in total per person, of which 2/3 alcohol and 1/3 non-alcoholic. If the party is to last longer, you should increase the quantities accordingly. Of course, it’s important to offer good non-alcoholic alternatives to those who don’t drink, drive or just want to hold back. Water, juice, soft drinks and non-alcoholic beer should always be readily available. 

No one likes to run out of drinks in the middle of a party, so it’s better to go a little over than under. Caterers and rental venues are often helpful in calculating appropriate quantities. Also ask about return schemes for unopened bottles – it can save a lot of waste and expense. 

How many courses is it usual to have at a Christmas party? 

The amount of drinks at a Christmas party can vary greatly depending on the company’s culture and preferences, but here are some general calculations per guest: 

  • Welcome drink: 1 glass (approx. 1 dl) 
  • Wine with food: 1/2 – 1 bottle (4-8 dl) 
  • Beer: 2-3 pints (6-10 dl) 
  • Drinks/avec: 2-3 units (4-6 cl) 
  • Water/soda: 1/2 – 1 liter 
  • Coffee/tea: 2-3 cups (4-6 cl) 

For a Christmas party lasting 3-4 hours, you can calculate approx. 1-1.5 liters of drinks in total per person, of which 2/3 alcohol and 1/3 non-alcoholic. If the party is to last longer, you should increase the quantities accordingly. 

Of course, it’s important to offer good non-alcoholic alternatives to those who don’t drink, drive or just want to hold back. Water, juice, soft drinks and non-alcoholic beer should always be readily available. 

No one likes to run out of drinks in the middle of a party, so it’s better to go a little over than under. Caterers and rental venues are often helpful in calculating appropriate quantities. Also ask about return schemes for unopened bottles – it can save a lot of waste and expense. 

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How early should I book Christmas party catering? 

The earlier you book your Christmas party catering, the better your chances of securing the menu, date and venue you want. Most people start planning 3-6 months before the event, especially if the Christmas party is to be held in November or December when demand is at its highest. 

Advantages of being early: 

  • You have first choice of dates and times 
  • It’s easier to get the menu and dishes you want 
  • You can choose from the best venues and rooms 
  • Popular caterers still have spare capacity 
  • There are often more favorable prices and payment terms when booking early 

By contacting caterers well in advance, you also have better opportunities to tailor the event to your own wishes and needs. You can make changes to the menu, adjust the number of guests and fine-tune every detail without time pressure. 

If you get a late start on planning, it’s still possible to create a great Christmas party. Many caterers have standardized arrangements and “off-the-shelf” items that can be ordered with shorter deadlines. Just be prepared to be a little flexible on the menu and venue. 

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How do I get a quote for Christmas party catering? 

The easiest way to get a quote for Christmas party catering is to use our service. We work with a wide range of caterers across the country and can quickly connect you with the best option for your event. 

Fill in the form on our website with whatever information you have, such as date, number of guests, menu, and special requests or needs. We’ll forward your request to the caterer that best suits your Christmas party, based on location, menu and capacity. The caterer in question will then contact you directly to discuss the plan further. 

Our service is completely free and non-binding. All you need to do is fill in the form and we’ll take care of the rest. 

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Other related questions 

Yes, several catering companies offer home delivery and private catering, whether you’re having a Christmas party at home or at your cabin. They can also assist with suitable decorations and table settings.  

Most caterers are flexible and can customize the menu according to customer preferences. If you want specific dishes, follow a special diet or have guests with allergies, they will find good solutions in consultation with you.  

Absolutely! Many people find it exciting to mix classic Christmas food with elements from other cuisines. Tapas-inspired Christmas tables with Spanish and Norwegian appetizers, for example, have become very popular. Your caterer can suggest creative menu combinations.

A cold Christmas table consists mainly of cold starters such as herring, salmon, cured meats and salads, served as a buffet. A hot Christmas table also includes warm side dishes and one or more main courses such as ribs and pinnekjøtt. Many people choose a combination of hot and cold dishes.  

Catering is a flexible solution that can easily be adapted to other program items. The caterer can deliver the food at the agreed time, or keep the buffet open for a longer period. Finger food or small portions are convenient if your guests are going to be active.  

Several caterers focus on local specialties and seasonal ingredients from the local area. This can add an exciting, local touch to your Christmas menu, as well as supporting local businesses. Ask about the options available in your area.  

Many caterers offer a complete package with everything from table settings and tableware to decorations. Place cards, flowers, candles and napkins in the colors of Christmas create an extra Christmas atmosphere. Clarify which additional services are offered well in advance of the event. 

The size of the company and the capacity of the caterer will determine whether multiple menus are practical. On request, some offer separate menu options for management, any guests or groups with special needs. Discuss your wishes with the caterer and see what they can do.  

The vast majority of caterers can provide customized dishes for guests with allergies and intolerances. Inform them of any allergens well in advance and they will prepare safe and tasty alternatives. Many also offer gluten-free, lactose-free and nut-free Christmas party menus on request.

Caterers are used to delivering food to all kinds of venues and occasions. Whether you want your Christmas party on board a boat, in an industrial building or in the middle of the forest, they’ll find a solution. Check in advance that the chosen venue has the necessary facilities such as electricity, water and waste disposal. 

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