Christmas drinks are informal, standing, short (2 to 3 hours) and accessible. A Christmas party is an evening with dinner or buffet, programme or entertainment, a clear beginning and end.
For a Christmas party, expect around €250 to €350+ per person ex. VAT for 250 to 500 guests. For 500 to 1,000 guests around €225 to €325+ per person. For 1,000 to 2,000 guests around €200 to €300+ per person. Above 2,000 guests around €150 to €200+ per person. All amounts excluding VAT.
The mistake: planning drinks but expecting the experience of a party.