Best Cocktail Party Venues Canberra for Hire

Whether you're organising a holiday gathering or an engagement party, there are plenty of Canberra cocktail party venues that will make your event an unforgettable one. To keep your guests happy, you need to be sure they have an enjoyable evening and your event turns out exactly as planned. Choosing the right location is essential, so read on for our guide to finding your ideal cocktail party venue in Canberra.

Where to go to find the best Canberra cocktail party venues

All of Canberra's many neighbourhoods have a wide range of cocktail party venues to choose from. Some are great for birthday parties, Christmas celebrations and hens nights thanks to the delicious food and drinks they serve and the party atmosphere they exude. Some are more suited to sophisticated soirees and upmarket events. We've listed down some suburbs in Canberra where you'll find these beautiful venues.

Braddon

Braddon is a great place to find hip and quirky cocktail party venues. This Canberra suburb is known for its cutting-edge restaurants and bars, so it's no surprise many of the cocktail party venues in Canberra are located here. It's also an ideal place to hold a hen night or bachelorette party, thanks to its selection of naughty clubs where you can dance the night away.

Barton ACT

This is the ideal spot to look for more sophisticated cocktail party venues. Barton is home to many of Canberra's embassies and foreign missions, so you'll find plenty of upmarket bars and restaurants here. If you're looking for a venue that exudes elegance and sophistication, Barton is the perfect place to start your search.

Griffith

For elegant cocktail party venues in Canberra, head to Griffith. With its high-end restaurants and exclusive bars, it's a favourite destination for those wanting to be pampered whilst enjoying the ambience of a sophisticated setting. Its wide range of luxury hotels can also host an unforgettable party with their excellent facilities and delectable cuisine.

Canberra City

Canberra City is the perfect place to look for a cocktail party venue that offers something a little different. With its eclectic mix of bars, nightclubs and restaurants, you'll find plenty of places here that will cater to your specific needs. Whether you're looking for a relaxed setting or a more lively atmosphere, Canberra City has it all.

Inner North

The Inner North is a popular area among young professionals and students because of its trendy cafes and restaurants. The best cocktail party venues in Canberra are scattered across this suburban hub. The perfect options in the Inner North cater to a diverse range of tastes and preferences, ensuring that there is something for everyone.

North Canberra

There's a wide selection of cocktail party venues in North Canberra. The hotels here are known for their live music performances, so they're ideal venues for any kind of party. There are also quaint restaurants with a welcoming ambience, so if you want to hold a more intimate event, these venues will be perfect.

Knight

If you're looking for a superb location for your New Year's Eve party or another special occasion, head to the cocktail party venues in Knight. You'll find some of Canberra's best banquet halls here and even a casino.

Northbourne

The Northbourne area is conveniently located in the heart of Canberra and is home to many great restaurants, bars, hotels and cafes. Most of its cocktail party venues have outdoor terraces where you can enjoy alfresco dining whilst admiring the spectacular views over Lake Burley Griffin or the Brind

Belconnen

If you're looking for a party that will never end, head to Belconnen. Its cocktail party venues include bars and clubs where the music doesn't stop until the wee hours of the morning.

South Canberra

The newest part of Canberra boasts some great cocktail party venues. Thanks to its close proximity to the Braddon area, South Canberra is a hotbed of activity at night. Many of the local restaurants and bars are popular hangouts for the younger crowd.

Weston Creek

If you're interested in booking one of Canberra's best cocktail party venues, Weston Creek is definitely a suburb to consider. It's close to some of Canberra's finest hotels and clubs, all of which put on a good night out for those wanting to let loose.

West Canberra

There are excellent bars, restaurants and nightclubs in West Canberra. If you want your party to have a more laidback feel, we recommend asking for one of these venues as they're less commercial and therefore more intimate than the ones in other parts of Canberra.

What are the best types of cocktail party venues in Canberra ACT?

There are many types of cocktail party venues to choose from in Canberra CBD, Acton, Barton ACT and all over Canberra City. Some venues will be best for daytime gatherings because they have a relaxed atmosphere and comfortable surroundings, whereas some venues are better suited to nights out as they have vivid lights and loud music. The following is a list of the most common kinds of venues that host cocktail parties.

Bars

If you're looking for somewhere warm and cosy with an intimate atmosphere, your best bet is a bar. Bars are the perfect place to enjoy an after-work drink and unwind with colleagues. If you want your event to have a more lively feel, ask about the bar's function room as this will give you access to extra audio equipment and lighting options.

Restaurants

If you want space and comfort, then a bistro-style restaurant is the way to go. Restaurants usually have a more relaxed environment and come with the benefit of having delectable food on offer. Some venues even come with drink packages so you can enjoy a few cocktails with your meal. You might not get as much party-focused entertainment in restaurants, but this makes them ideal venues for those who'd prefer to spend their evening chatting over dinner.

Hotel function venues

Most hotels in this magnificent city have function spaces that make great cocktail party venues. These are usually more expensive than other options, but they're definitely worth it for special occasions such as an engagement party, wedding reception, a corporate conference or a golden anniversary celebration. With state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment, onsite accommodation, and a wide selection of party venues, hotels in Canberra are a popular choice for cocktail parties.

Private Dining Room

Private dining rooms in hotels offer an intimate and exclusive setting for your cocktail party. These rooms are perfect for smaller gatherings or events where privacy is essential. They often come with a dedicated staff to cater to your needs and ensure a seamless and personalised experience. For a memorable experience, consider booking a private dining room in one of Canberra's top hotels.

Rooftop venues

Rooftop venues in Canberra are very popular. These special venues are great for summer gatherings because they offer stunning views over the city skyline, as well as plenty of fresh air and natural light. Many rooftop cocktail party venues have open-air bars on their decks, which is a bonus for those who like to go all out when decorating for a special occasion such as a 21st birthday party or an anniversary party.

Planning a birthday party? Why not check out this Canberra Birthday Party Venue Guide to help you choose the perfect venue for your special day?

Speakeasies

If you want a venue with an underground feel, then speakeasies will give you just that. Often run by creative types who like to have fun with their cocktails, speakeasies make for great parties and other lighthearted events where guests will expect a proper night out rather than some posh dinner. This private room is usually only accessible by a secret password or door knock, so you'll have to do some research before finding the perfect speakeasy for your cocktail party.

Beer Gardens

On the other hand, if you prefer a more relaxed and casual atmosphere for your cocktail party, then a beer garden might be the perfect choice. Perfect for beer lovers, Canberra has a number of beer gardens that offer a laid-back setting where guests can enjoy delicious cocktails alongside a wide selection of beer drinks.

Gardens

If you're interested in hosting an outdoor party, then Canberra's gardens are the way to go. Whether you choose one of the botanical gardens or look into renting a private venue with a garden, your guests will love mingling in the fresh air and enjoying their drinks out on the lawn. Gardens are perfect for a summer cocktail party wherever you live in Canberra.

Factors to consider when planning a cocktail event

When planning a cocktail event in Canberra, there are several factors to consider to ensure that your party is a success. Here are some important factors to consider when planning a cocktail event in Canberra:

Event Cost: Determine the budget for your cocktail event in Canberra. Consider the venue costs, food and drinks, decorations, entertainment, and any additional services you may require. This will help you narrow down your options and plan accordingly. Check for event packages like food and beverage packages that include a set menu and drinks option, as these flexible packages can often be more cost-effective than ordering items individually.

Venue Size and Capacity: Consider the number of guests you expect to attend your cocktail event. Choose a venue in Canberra that can comfortably accommodate your guests while adhering to any social distancing regulations or capacity restrictions in place. It's important to ensure that there is enough space for guests to mingle and move around freely. There is an array of venues in Canberra that offer various sizes and capacities to suit your needs. From intimate spaces for small gatherings to large venues for big parties, you can find a venue that fits your guest list.

Location: The location of your cocktail event venue is important for the convenience of your guests. Choose a venue that is easily accessible, with ample parking or public transportation options. Consider the proximity to accommodations if you have guests travelling from out of town.

Amenities and Facilities: Look for cocktail venue spaces in Canberra that offer the amenities and facilities you require. This may include a fully equipped bar, a dance floor, audiovisual equipment for presentations or entertainment, and adequate restroom facilities. Venues with outdoor spaces or rooftop areas can provide a unique and enjoyable atmosphere.

Catering and Drinks: Find out if the venue offers in-house catering and bar services. Consider the menu options available and if they can accommodate any dietary requirements or preferences of your guests. Some venues may offer a range of canapes, finger foods, or even full-course meals to complement your cocktail event. It is also important to check if they have a liquor license and if they can provide a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages to suit the preferences of your guests. Some venues may allow you to bring your own alcohol, but be sure to confirm this in advance and inquire about any corkage fees or restrictions.

Book your perfect cocktail party venue in Canberra City

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