The holiday season is here, but don’t worry—there’s still time to plan an unforgettable celebration! Whether you’re hosting a corporate holiday gathering, a nonprofit gala, or a festive social soirée, we’re here to help you create a memorable experience.

Need some guidance? Our holiday party planning tips are packed with insights to make the process seamless. From choosing a theme to curating the perfect menu, we’ve got you covered every step of the way.

Searching for the ideal venue? Great Performances has a comprehensive list of exceptional venues and a user-friendly Venue Searcher to match your event size, style, and needs.

For even more inspiration, explore our Holiday Party Guide, brimming with ideas for food, décor, activities, and more.

Looking ahead? Many companies are opting for January celebrations to avoid the December rush. It’s a smart way to secure top venues and ensure your guests have a clear calendar.

Let us help you bring your vision to life. Start planning today and make this season’s festivities truly extraordinary!

Holiday Party Guide

Start Planning Your Holiday Party Today

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At Great Performances, food is woven into every moment from a quick coffee break to a grand celebratory feast. We bring this belief to life through delicious food, warm hospitality, and boundless culinary creativity. At the heart of it all is our Chefs’ Choir℠ ensemble – a unique and diverse group of extraordinary chefs and cooks who power our catering, café, and restaurant services. With their diverse talents, perspectives, and culinary expertise, they shape the unforgettable menus that define our events, from corporate gatherings and nonprofit galas to weddings and milestone celebrations; and that feed our diners at our cafés and restaurants.

 

Through the Chefs’ Choir℠ ensemble, our chefs step beyond the kitchen to share their passion and expertise directly with you. They offer recipes to try at home, stories that inspire, insights into their craft, and tips to elevate your cooking. Whether you’re looking to recreate a signature dish, explore new techniques, or simply find fresh inspiration, the Chefs’ Choir℠ ensemble brings the artistry and creativity of Great Performances into your home, making every meal a celebration.

This month, as we celebrate Thanksgiving, we focus on coming together around the table with our loved ones, extending community to our neighbors, and sharing our food, joys, and comfort.

Our chefs share their culinary voices with stories and recipes that capture the Thanksgiving spirit.

Check out their delicious contributions – and let us know which ones you’ve tried!

Thanksgiving Recipes

“Stay live till ‘25” was the chant we heard in 2021 as the hospitality industry struggled with the impact of Covid.

 

And here it is, 2025. We stayed very alive, found ways to thrive and redefine our business while discovering that some things just don’t change. The desire to gather for celebrations, in person communication and inspiration.

 

We are a quarter of the way through this century wondering sometimes how much progress we have made. It’s hard to know. Regardless, we look ahead with optimism and hope to unleash joy with everything we do. This year, we look to our farm and animal neighbors to shepherd us through the months ahead.

 

Animals contribute immeasurably to our lives and to the agricultural ecosystem. They sustain us on multiple levels, from companionship to nurturing the soil, and for many, as food. We have embarked on several culinary sustainability initiatives, including reduced meat portion sizes and rebalancing the plate with vegetables, grains and alternative proteins. We are giving meat-centered entrees lots of creative competition with our plant-forward menus. It is the “carrot” and not “the stick” approach.

 

We wish you a peaceful, healthy, meaningful and delicious year ahead.

 

With love,

 

The Great Performances & Katchkie Farm Families

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October was a month of meaningful connections and vibrant gatherings as Great Performances proudly catered several nonprofit events that celebrated art, culture, and community engagement. From the immersive experiences at Open House New York (OHNY) to the artistic initiatives supported by Powerhouse Arts, we had the privilege of collaborating with organizations that share our commitment to enriching lives through creativity and sustainability.

 

At Brooklyn Bridge Park, we provided a culinary experience that complemented the stunning waterfront views, fostering a sense of togetherness among attendees. Similarly, our partnership with Friends of Governor’s Island showcased the island’s unique charm while promoting environmental stewardship and community involvement. Each event allowed us to demonstrate our dedication to sustainability, crafting menus that featured locally sourced ingredients and innovative plant-forward options.

 

Join us as we reflect on these inspiring events, highlighting the remarkable work that these organizations do for our city.

Paul Muldoon and Jean Hanff Korelitz’s immersive adaptation of The Dead, 1904 returns to the American Irish Historical Society with Irish Repertory Theatre this winter. And what better way is there to immerse oneself in the world of James Joyce than a decadent feast, provided by Great Performances caterers?

Meticulous planning has gone into the preparation of the show’s menu: included in the meal is whole roast turkey (a more contemporary alternative to the “fat brown goose” served in the story), beef tenderloin with fig and cocoa glaze, floury mashed potatoes, and paired wine and spirits. 

 

Great Performances has catered The Dead since its premiere in 2016. Executive Chef Andrew Smith, along with Muldoon, Hanff Korelitz, and director Ciarán O’Reilly have curated each dish so as to recreate the feel of the Morkan holiday party against the backdrop of early 20th century Ireland as vividly as possible. 

 

Not one sensory detail of Joyce’s iconic story is neglected in this year’s revival of The Dead. Experience theatre and the culinary arts at their finest, November 20 – January 5, 2025.

 

Click here for more information and to book your tickets now.

 

The Dead, 1904 Dinner Menu 

 

Fig & Cocoa Glaze Beef Tenderloin (GF, DF)

Spicy & Sweet Fig Sauce

 

Whole Roast Turkey (GF, DF)

Stuffed with Fresh Parsley, Thyme & Rosemary

 

Mashed “Floury” Potatoes (GF)

 

Cranberry & Pineapple Relish (GF, Vegan)

 

Roasted Haricot Verts (GF, Vegan)

 

Individual Bread & Butter Pudding (GF)

Vanilla Custard

 

Vegan Entrée: Torta Panzanella (Vegan, GF)

Book Your Tickets Now

This winter, Wollman Rink introduces the Igloo Village—a cozy, festive addition to New York’s iconic ice rink in Central Park. Starting November 15, 2024, three beautifully decorated igloos will be available for private rental, each offering an intimate, wintry retreat for up to 8 guests. Perfect for a memorable gathering, these igloos can be reserved for 90-minute sessions as an add-on to your general admission ticket, starting at $550. Each reservation includes a curated selection of food and beverage options to complete the experience.

 

Celebrating the Season at Wollman Rink

With its skyline views and classic New York atmosphere, Wollman Rink has long been a beloved destination for skaters and holiday revelers alike. Great Performances, as the exclusive catering partner, has crafted an array of dining options to suit any occasion—from the rinkside café, featuring fan favorites like the Wollman Smash Burger and a comforting Chili Bar, to the private, tented spaces perfect for holiday gatherings and cocktail receptions. Whether you’re enjoying a casual meal or hosting a corporate event, our menus include options for all tastes, including vegan selections.

 

Plan Your Visit

Private igloo reservations are available throughout the holiday season, from November 27, 2024, to January 5, 2025, and bookings are already open at www.wollmanrinknyc.com. From a cozy date night to a special family gathering, the Igloo Village offers a unique way to experience winter in New York City.

 

Let this season be one to remember with an unforgettable evening at Wollman Rink—your winter destination for food, fun, and festive memories.

On November 21st, the Museum of Food and Drink (MOFAD) invites you to join them at Essex Market for a memorable gala dedicated to celebrating New York City’s vibrant street food history. Proceeds from the event will help fund MOFAD  and its upcoming 2025 exhibitions.

 

The Museum of Food and Drink is a pioneering food museum that leverages the universal nature of food to foster cultural change and promote a more thoughtful, equitable, and delicious future. Through immersive exhibits that engage the senses, MOFAD serves as a global educational resource, inspiring curious eaters of all ages and backgrounds.

 

This year’s gala will honor Niki Russ Federman, Josh Russ Tupper, and Maria and Mark Russ Federman of the iconic Russ & Daughters. Founded by Joel Russ over a century ago with a humble herring cart, this family-run business has become a cornerstone of NYC’s food culture. Beyond preserving their own legacy, the Russ family actively champions the city’s independent restaurants through their work with the Independent Restaurant Coalition (IRC), helping to protect and strengthen NYC’s vibrant culinary landscape.

 

Guests will be treated to a menu inspired by NYC’s diverse street food traditions, with dishes that reflect over two centuries of culinary history. The evening will also feature a special toast to NYC’s Black oystermen, with cocktails crafted from the only vodka distilled with 100% New York corn and locally harvested oysters.

 

Tickets are still available on MOFAD’s website—don’t miss your chance to be part of this unforgettable evening!  Raise a glass, savor extraordinary dishes, and help shape the future of this unique museum and the communities it celebrates. Secure your tickets now for an inspiring night of food, culture, and connection!

Bring a true taste of NYC to your event with Great Performances’ Russ & Daughters activation. For over 110 years, Russ & Daughters has been a New York icon, celebrated for its smoked fish, caviar, latkes, and more. With locations from the Lower East Side to Hudson Yards, this legendary brand can now bring its authentic flavors to your gathering.

Wedding Planning Q&A with Amanda DiUglio

Congratulations on your engagement! After celebrating this momentous occasion, it’s time to jump into the exciting world of wedding planning. We turned to our resident wedding expert, Amanda DiUglio, who has successfully planned hundreds of weddings for Great Performances, to answer some common questions couples have during this journey.

 

Q: What’s the first thing a couple should do after they get engaged?

Amanda: After you’ve celebrated the moment, take in the fun! Enjoy this time together, as the planning will happen quickly. The next big step is to decide where you want to get married. Find the perfect venue first, and the rest will really fall in line.

 

Q: How soon should a couple start planning? Is there a ‘sweet spot’ for timing?

Amanda: Each client is different. If there’s a must-have date or venue, the sooner, the better. If you’re flexible with details, you can take a little more time to enjoy being engaged.

 

Q: What are the top priorities couples should focus on?

Amanda: Budget is one of the biggest factors. It’s heartbreaking for a couple to fall in love with a venue that’s outside of their budget. Determine how much you want to spend, and then explore options within that range.

 

Q: What are a few main things to keep in mind while touring venues?

Amanda: Consider whether the venue fits your wedding vision, if there’s a rain plan in place, and where each significant moment of the day will happen. It’s important to visualize the flow of your event.

 

Q: At what point should I get a planner, and what are the benefits of having one?

Amanda: This depends on how hands-on you want to be. Full planners can help execute everything from start to finish, while others offer various packages that might better fit your level of involvement.

 

Q: What key questions should couples ask a potential wedding planner during their consultation?

Amanda: It’s all about personality. Make sure you like the person you’re working with! A good rapport will lead to a smoother planning process.

 

Q: How would you recommend picking a date?

Amanda: This is such a personal question! Think about what matters most to you: Is the weather important? Do you have a favorite flower? Do you prefer an outdoor or indoor setting? All these factors will play into your date selection.

 

Q: What are some common mistakes you’ve seen couples make in the planning process?

Amanda: Talk to the professionals! We all want the day to go smoothly for each couple. When we make recommendations, it’s based on experience. Even if it doesn’t align with your exact vision, we’re here to help you avoid common pitfalls.

 

Q: What’s the best way to keep the planning process from feeling overwhelming?

Amanda: Hire a planner! Let the professionals handle the details so you can enjoy the process. It makes a huge difference.

 

Q: Are there any current trends or ‘must-haves’ that couples are requesting?

Amanda: We’re seeing a lot of interactive moments this year. For example, several couples want us to build their wedding cake live in the traditional Italian style, allowing guests to watch and enjoy the experience!

 

Q: What is one piece of advice you would give a newly engaged couple?

Amanda: It all goes by so fast! Try to relax and enjoy the special moments instead of just checking them off your list. This is a beautiful time in your life—savor it!

 

Q: What’s a cute engagement story a couple has shared with you?

Amanda: One of our clients met in preschool! They found all their old photos from when they were kids and incorporated that into their story for the night. It was such a charming touch!

 

As you embark on this exciting journey of wedding planning, remember to savor each moment and embrace the joy of being engaged. With Amanda’s expert advice, you’re equipped to make thoughtful decisions about your venue, budget, and the overall vision for your special day.

 

We’re here when you’re ready to embark on your next steps! Here at Great Performances, we’re happy to work with you and your planner to create a beautiful day crafted just for you and your partner. Together, we’ll ensure your wedding is not just an event but a memorable celebration of your love story!

The 22nd Annual Open House New York (OHNY) Weekend brought the city to life with unique glimpses into some of New York’s most remarkable spaces. Great Performances (GP) was honored to be part of this incredible celebration, sponsoring and catering the OHNY Weekend Launch Party and welcoming guests into our Bronx headquarters for exclusive tours. From classic New York street food to our signature culinary creations, GP infused the events with a taste of New York’s diversity and flair.

 

 

The OHNY Weekend Launch Party at United Palace

The iconic United Palace in Washington Heights set the stage for the OHNY Weekend launch. Nearly 400 guests gathered in sequins, gold, and eclectic styles, kicking off this beloved celebration with an evening filled with community, music, and New York spirit. GP was proud to sponsor and cater this event, where we showcased a classic New York-inspired menu that perfectly complemented the vibrant venue.

The Menu

Classic NY Street Food with a Twist

Our menu honored New York’s street food culture, serving up Kosher All-Beef Hot Dogs with classic toppings like ketchup and mustard on Martin’s long potato rolls, alongside Vegan Hot Dogs with a twist—featuring kale pesto, pickled shallots, and spiced sunflower seeds on a vegan bun.

Special Bites

We also brought in GP’s famous Thunder Pickle Spears and warm, freshly baked Soft Pretzels with Deli Mustard, a perfect snack for mingling in this grand space.

A Global Taste with Eat Offbeat

Highlighting New York’s global flavors, we collaborated with Eat Off Beat to serve Pollo Guisado and Caraotas Negras, two Venezuelan dishes that added a unique touch to the event.

Sweet Finale

To round off the night, guests indulged in select desserts, each crafted to add sweetness to the celebration.

OHNY Weekend: A Three-Day Festival Across 270+ Sites

October 18-20 marked three unforgettable days where tens of thousands of New Yorkers and visitors explored 271 sites across the five boroughs. OHNY Weekend continues to bring the city’s rich architecture and hidden gems to the public, deepening connections and creating moments of discovery.

Behind the Scenes at Great Performances’ Bronx Headquarters

GP welcomed guests for three packed tours of our Bronx office and commissary, offering an insider look at the heart of our operations. Visitors got to see firsthand how our commitment to quality, sustainability, and creativity comes to life.

 

Starting at Mae Mae Cafe

We kicked off each tour in our Bronx-based cafe and plant shop, Mae Mae, where guests enjoyed the cozy ambiance and greenery before heading into our bustling kitchen spaces.


Exploring Our Culinary Process

From loading docks to pantries and walk-in refrigerators, guests traced the journey of our ingredients from delivery to final preparation in our hot and cold kitchens, seeing how each element is crafted to retain freshness and flavor.

Design and Presentation

A visit to our warehouse and design space revealed over 2,000 custom trays, serving pieces, and decor items used to elevate events. This glimpse into our design inventory showed the creative range we bring to each event, whether it’s a rustic gathering or an elegant gala.

 

Pastry Kitchen and Special Treats

In our pastry kitchen, guests watched our chefs in action and received a parting gift: Chef Albert Bello’s beloved chocolate chip cookies. These cookies, known for their ideal chewy-crispy texture and rich brown sugar and chocolate flavor, made for the perfect takeaway and a sweet memory of their visit.

OHNY Weekend is more than a citywide festival—it’s a tribute to New York City’s diversity, history, and shared spaces. Great Performances is proud to support OHNY’s mission and delighted to bring our culinary artistry to this year’s celebration. As we shared classic New York flavors and gave visitors a glimpse into our creative process, we felt the true spirit of OHNY: opening doors and connecting communities in meaningful ways.

Photography: Main image; Galleries 1 & 2 by Jenna Bascomb; Gallery 3 by Hechler Photographers

Set against the stunning backdrop of the glittering Manhattan skyline, the Brooklyn Black Tie Ball was an enchanting evening hosted by the Brooklyn Bridge Park Conservancy at New York City’s most breathtaking waterfront park.

Senior Event Director, Lauren Tregor, spearheaded this 600-person seated dinner. Join us in reliving the magic of the night through our photo gallery below, showcasing the breathtaking ambiance, honored guests, and the exquisite culinary experience that made this event truly unforgettable.

This year’s gala honored four remarkable champions of the park: Daniel L. Doctoroff, Regina Myer, Nanette Smith, and the landscape architects of MVVA, who have played pivotal roles in bringing the Brooklyn waterfront vision to life. The evening was a celebration of joy, wonder, and exploration, with supporters rallying around the Conservancy’s commitment to providing free access to cultural, fitness, and educational experiences for all New Yorkers.

Guests were treated to a thoughtfully crafted menu that highlighted the best of seasonal cuisine, beginning with delightful butlered hors d’oeuvres like Green Chickpea Pani Puri and Lobster & Corn Tart. The meal progressed to an elegant first course of Burrata and Apple, followed by a choice of Roasted Branzino or a delicious vegetarian option. Desserts featured a stunning Maple Choux, alongside an array of butlered treats.

The evening’s menu included:

  • Cocktail: Maple Old Fashioned
  • Butlered Hors d’Oeuvres:
    • Green Chickpea Pani Puri
    • Lemon Confit Potatoes
    • Crispy Arancini
    • Lobster & Corn Tart
    • Pulled Poblano Lime Chicken
    • Savory Bread Pudding
    • Duck Banh Mi Summer Roll
    • Steak Frites
  • First Course: Burrata and Apple
  • Entrée: Roasted Branzino (Vegetarian option: Smoked Eggplant)
  • Plated Dessert: Maple Choux, Bowl of Fresh Berries
  • Butlered Desserts: Dark Chocolate Raspberry Truffles, Fresh Fruit Tartlet