It is that time of year again for end-of-year staff parties and appreciation events.

Many companies have already settled important details about their events and employees are now in an anticipatory mode for the final big social activity before the Christmas holidays begin.

These festivities take different forms depending on the nature of the organisation and what it hopes to achieve by staging these events. It is also the time of year when some companies who offer end-of-year incentives present this to employees. Not all Christmas parties are the same as some events may take the form of a beach party, a family fun day, an elegant dinner party or a cocktail party.

Here in the western end of the island, the regular disco-style night party is the most popular, and in the hotel and tourism sector it has become a traditional fore runner to the start of the hectic winter tourist season. Because hospitality industry personnel are usually quite busy taking care of guests, the staff party is a significant social event that is a much treasured ritual. It is the last hoorah before hotels get flooded with guests and team members buckle down to the business of tourism.

In many instances the title Christmas party is a misnomer as there is no substantial emphasis on the Christmas theme in décor, music, food and beverage. Typically, these parties are high-energy shindigs with lots of surprises and opportunities to win prizes. Dance contests and other forms of artistic competitions are not unusual and special guest appearances by major entertainment personalities have also been included in some events.

Some staff parties have become legendary, and invitations to them have become much sought after. Guarding their reputation jealously, they keep looking for fresh angles to gain bragging rights at the end of the season.

One of the side attractions at these events is the outfits. Employees look forward to showing off their own personal style. Dancing is the central activity and this is also traditionally an avenue for many to demonstrate their prowess.

Each party is designed for lasting memory, and Way Out West will be bringing the action to readers throughout the season.