Not everyone enjoys a boozy Christmas bash.

We hear a lot about mindful drinking and watching how much we consume but sometimes, even with the best of intentions, we end up drinking on a night out because, well, it’s just what we are used to.

Staff parties are definitely one of those times.

Happily, whether you’re teetotal, pregnant, working the night shift tomorrow or simply can’t be arsed with the pointless hangover, there’s plenty happening in Cork outside of the pub.

Of course, not everyone wants to go without their Christmas cocktail, but replacing drinking as the main activity can be a good way to make sure nobody on the team misses out.

Here are three staff party ideas that give everyone the option of having fun with their co-workers, sans hangover.

1. A belly full of laughs

Nothing builds bonds faster than laughter and there are some fantastic comedians and entertainers in Coco Comedy Club, Cyprus Avenue, and City Limits this December. Comedian, poet, and mentalist Cornelius Patrick O’ Sullivan is taking the stage at the Coco Comedy Club at The Roundy on December 6th, along with Daniel Lukas, stand-up comic Nghia Ma, Donal McSweeney, Ray Murphy, and Lesly Martinez.

Then there’s Mockie Ah! in Cyprus Avenue, on December 9th with their Christmas Special ‘O Holy Queens’, a festive drag performance.

City Limits has some big names scheduled too, including Colin Murphy on December 4th, David McSavage on the 18th, and Nicola Verdis on December 16th. Team the comedy night with dinner beforehand for a memorable night out.

2. Music to our ears

The Everyman Theatre is hosting the John Spillane and Friends Annual Christmas Concert on December 16th this year, with his usual array of mystery guests who will have the audience laughing, crying, and full of community spirit. If your office is mad about local music and surprise performances, this one’s for you.

3. Let’s get physical

If your team members are the active sort, there are some amazing adventure sports spots that cater to small and large groups in and around Cork City. Step outside your comfort zone with a team day out at The Circus Factory and learn circus skills such as juggling, hula-hooping, circus games, and human pyramids.

You can also combine comedy (because you’ll be howling) and sports with Bubble Ball at the Adventure Park in Watergrasshill, which also offers karting, paintballing, archery and laser tag.

Whatever you end up doing, we recommend booking your spot as early as possible this year to avoid disappointment.

Photo Credit: The Circus Factory/ David Hegarty. Featuring artist Kate Mitchell