Small Holiday Party Venues for Rent in New York City, NY

Planning a festive bash in the Big Apple? Whether you're organising a company holiday dinner, a seasonal cocktail soirée, or a low-key gathering with friends, New York City offers all kinds of spots for small holiday parties—hidden lounges, flexible lofts, neighbourhood favourites, and stylish private bars. From Manhattan to Brooklyn, this guide covers standout spaces under 100 guests that are big on atmosphere and built for celebration.

Smart Tips for Small Holiday Party Planning in NYC

• Skip big weekends: The first two weekends of December are often booked early and come at a premium. Consider weekday evenings or earlier time slots for better availability.
  Ask about bar minimums: Many venues offer lower rates or waive fees if you hit a spend on food and drinks. Always confirm the bar policy in advance.
• Consider access: Think about coat storage, elevator service (if needed), and where guests will enter and exit, especially in residential-style venues.
• Go local: Caterers often struggle with traffic in NYC in December. Hiring nearby helps you avoid delays and stress.

How to Find Perfect Small Holiday Party Venues in New York City

New York City offers a sleigh-full of venues as unique and diverse as the city itself. So, how do you sift through the skyscrapers and subway lines to find that cozy, magical space that will sprinkle your holiday event with NYC cheer? No worries, we've got you covered! Follow this guide, and you'll unveil the secret spots where holiday spirits soar high.

1. Define Your Unique NYC Vibe: New York City is a colossal canvas of cultures and styles. From the nostalgic cobblestone streets of Brooklyn to the plush penthouses of Manhattan, each borough brings its own flavor. What's your pick? A sophisticated soiree with skyline views or a warm, intimate gathering soaked in historic charm? Maybe a trendy loft in SoHo inspired by "Friends"? Or a chic art gallery in Chelsea, breathing creativity. Decide on the theme that tickles your holiday fancy, aligning it with the cultural richness that only NYC offers.
2. Consider the Guest List and Budget: Tailoring your guest list helps you choose a venue that's just the right size, ensuring that the space is cozy but not as cramped as a subway car at rush hour. Having a clear budget in mind is as crucial as the holiday turkey. NYC comes with sparkling price tags, but with a sprinkle of savvy, you can find venues that deliver spectacular experiences without breaking the bank.
3. Location: Choose a venue that is accessible, keeping in mind the infamous NYC traffic and the reliability of the subway system. Proximity to iconic landmarks like Central Park or Times Square could add an extra twinkle to your event, making it as memorable as the lighting of the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree.
4. Dive into the Details: When hosting a small holiday bash in NYC, details are the dazzling ornaments on your party tree. Dive deep into the amenities and services that venues offer. Are they providing catering with mouth-watering menus inspired by the city's diverse culinary scene? Is there a sound system good enough to play the latest pop hits? Remember to check the venues’ flexibility regarding decoration, timing, and cancellation policies.
5. Check Availability and Book Early: Venues in NYC get booked faster than Broadway shows, so check availability well in advance. Once you find a spot that feels as heartwarming as a cup of hot cocoa on a snowy NYC evening, book it and let the holiday magic begin!
6. Plan for the Unexpected: In a city as unpredictable as a New York winter, always have a Plan B. Whether it's a sudden snowstorm or a subway delay, be prepared for unexpected twists that might need a sprinkle of flexibility and creativity to keep the holiday spirit alive and kicking.

Holiday Private Dining & Restaurant Spaces 

La Victoria, Chelsea

With high ceilings and a central Manhattan location, La Victoria offers a flexible layout for seated dinners, standing receptions or hybrid holiday events. The menu is Latin American-inspired and customisable, and the venue’s versatile layout allows it to feel intimate even with a smaller group. Located just a few blocks from Penn Station, it’s easy for guests to reach, even in winter weather.

BarDough NYC, Hell's Kitchen

Join them for a selection of gourmet personal pizzas or create your own personal favorite. Their thin crust pizzas are made in an authentic fired brick oven and each pizza is paired with a specialty cocktail. Whether joining us for lunch, pre or post theater dinner, or just for an evening out to relax and sip your favorite cocktail, they’re known to provide you with a warm, inviting and unique dining experience.

Madeline's, Greenpoint

Located in a now-defunct pencil factory, Madeline's is a huge venue featuring a 40 foot bar, 60ft ceiling height, a dining room, a mezzanine overlooking the main bar, and a separate private room complete with bathrooms and its own bar. There are four different sound channels to tune into so each room can have the same or a different vibe ranging from DJ's or tailored playlists. There are several points of entry/exit as well for high-profile events or wedding couple entrances.

Bars & Lounge Spaces for Christmas

The DOM, Gramercy Park

The space unfolds into a series of distinctive areas, each outfitted with plush furnishings and cutting-edge amenities, ensuring a premium experience whether you're nestled in a private corner or in the main lounge. With acoustics precisely engineered for clarity, the ambient sound complements the visual feast, making The DOM not just a place to see and be seen but to hear and be moved by the rhythm of the city's pulse. Its interior combines open-plan areas with breakout lounges, giving organisers the flexibility to design the night around what matters most—food, dancing, or good conversation.

Dear Irving on Broadway, Midtown West

Inspired by films like Babylon and Nightmare Alley, guests will be transported back to the 1930s, a time when theater and live performances offered a vital escape from the hardships of the Great Depression. This venue features luxurious indoor and outdoor bars, plush lounge seating, and a small stage for presentations, performances, and DJs. Award-winning Bar Director Meghan Dorman's cocktail menu pays tribute to Broadway legends past and present, while Chef Franco Barrio offers eclectic event food inspired by New York City classics.

Nine Cases, Bowery

Step into this cozy retreat in the Lower East Side, where every detail is designed to make you feel at home. Admire the rustic charm of exposed brick walls adorned with real art, illuminated by the soft glow of candlelight. Nine Cases welcomes guests from 5 pm to midnight, Tuesday through Sunday, offering a seasonal menu featuring 9 international appetizers. With two convenient restrooms and ample space for up to 35 seated guests or 50 standing, our venue is perfect for gatherings big and small.

Let NYC’s exclusive holiday party venues be the backdrop of your story, where each moment is captured, each laugh is cherished, and each memory is engraved in the city. Take a look at our holiday ideas and tips for some inspo.