Boxing Day Hospitality Preparation Plan
Preparing for Boxing Day in Hospitality: Tips for a Smooth and Successful Service
Boxing Day is one of the biggest days in the hospitality calendar. After the excitement (and exhaustion!) of Christmas Day, guests are ready to relax, reconnect, and enjoy a delicious meal or drink out with family and friends. For hospitality teams, it’s an opportunity to shine — but it takes preparation, teamwork, and a touch of festive cheer to make it all run smoothly.
Here’s how to get your venue ready for a successful Boxing Day service.
1. Get Your Team Ready
Your team is the heartbeat of the day, so start by confirming your staff rota early. Double-check everyone’s shifts, arrival times, and backup coverage in case of unexpected absences.
Hold a pre-service briefing to go over:
Expected guest numbers and bookings
Any special menus or promotions
Key allergen or dietary notes
Encourage teamwork and positivity — it’s a busy day, but a great atmosphere among staff always translates to happier guests.
And don’t forget presentation: neat uniforms and a festive smile go a long way!
2. Perfect the Setup
Your venue should still feel festive, but functional. Keep decorations tasteful and out of the way of service areas. Check that tables are properly set, reservations are clearly marked, and public spaces are spotless.
Music and lighting should complement the mood — upbeat enough to keep the post-Christmas spirit alive, but comfortable for guests who are winding down from the holiday.
3. Food and Drink Preparation
With many guests opting for comfort food after Christmas, stock up on popular items and prepare a streamlined Boxing Day menu. This helps your kitchen team maintain speed and consistency while still offering plenty of flavour.
Don’t forget the drinks! Make sure wines, beers, and festive cocktails are well-stocked and chilled. A few fun winter specials — like mulled cider or a cranberry spritz — can add a lovely seasonal touch.
And, as always, keep allergy and dietary information clearly noted and easily accessible for all staff.
4. Deliver a Great Guest Experience
Guests might arrive tired, relaxed, or still in full celebration mode — and it’s your team’s job to make everyone feel welcome. Warm greetings and efficient service set the tone for the day.
If wait times crop up, communicate clearly and offer a friendly gesture, such as a drink at the bar. Small touches like takeaway packaging for leftovers or a complimentary festive treat can also leave a lasting impression.
5. Wrap Up the Day Right
Once the last guests have gone, take a moment to debrief. Discuss what worked well, note any issues, and start planning for the next big event (New Year’s Eve isn’t far away!).
Finish the day by cleaning and resetting the venue — and most importantly, thank your team. Boxing Day can be hectic, but with good preparation and teamwork, it can also be one of the most rewarding days of the season.
Final Thoughts
Boxing Day is about connection — for both guests and staff. With thoughtful planning, clear communication, and a bit of festive spirit, your hospitality team can turn it into a smooth, successful, and joy-filled day for everyone involved.