The holidays are approaching faster than you can say, “My house needs a deep clean,” which means scheduling holiday parties may be both a necessity and impossibility. Good thing there are plenty of places around town to host your shindig!

Downtown:

Stumptown Station: The Station offers space rental for both the upstairs or the whole bar. There's no fee to reserve the space, so as long as the bar tab hits the minimum, then the rental is free! Prices vary based on the day of the week and if it's the whole bar or just upstairs. Want live music? They'll take care of that! Need a little nosh? They'll figure that out, too! The maximum is about 60 people before space gets a little tight, but if you're looking for a cozy soiree with locally sourced cocktail ingredients, Stumptown Station is a solid choice.

Grace O'Malley's: Stumptown Station not quite big enough? Just next door is Grace O'Malley's. Newbies to the downtown Matthews scene, Grace's has a separate room for cozy events or have a holiday blow out and reserve the whole restaurant. With the green-accented decor and the red-headed bartenders, the seasonal motif is covered, but the odds are good it'll be a little extra sparkly for November and December. This holiday season, Grace's is offering waived rental fees for the private event space booked in December, plus you get a $50.00 gift card as a thank you. The restaurant for a full buyout (200 ppl reception, 90 seated) or the private room (30 ppl seated, 60 ppl reception style).

The ENT:

Matthews Sportsplex: At the pricier end, but with an incredible view, rent the conference room at the Sportsplex. You'll have to outsource the food, although there's access to a small kitchen. It's the view that's the reason to rent the Sportsplex for a party. Overlooking the stadium, the conference center is equipped with wireless internet, TV's, a projector, tables, and chairs. Bring in the caterer and queue up the end-of-year powerpoint. Plus, in a sports-themed space, imagine the team-building puns you can use in your holiday toast!

Bowlero: Matthews’ newly refabbed bowling alley, Bowlero (formerly AMF Lanes), has the right vibe for a raucous good time with the office pals, a Lebowski-themed night out. They have alcohol available, but between bowling and the video game arcade, Bowlero is an excellent location for a sober celebration. Order a few 6-lb burgers to share, get your game on, and Bowlero will sweeten the deal with a free dessert platter (coupon code required) for parties booked in December. Wham bam, party plan.

Southside:

Char Bar No. 7: Looking for a seated dinner for the whole office that’s somewhere between dressy and casual? Looking for all sorts of dinner options, including steaks and salads, with a couple of vegetarian options (less so for the vegans)? Char Bar checks all the boxes. Add some cocktails to the mix, a white elephant gift exchange, and your event will be holiday-appropriate without the need for excess planning.