On the subject of office Christmas parties, I've not had one for a couple of years since I've been freelance, working at home. Now I'm an employee again but I don't think there will be a company Christmas party as such. Our team is, however, having its own Christmas party, which will be pizza and champagne in one of the office meeting rooms during our lunch break a few days before we break up. I am actually looking forward to it.
I well remember how team Christmas lunches used to be at the job I was doing back in the late 90s - much discussion (ie arguing) over finding a venue that was the least disagreeable to the largest number of people, and as cheap as possible so no one had to spend too much money for the privilege of being forced to enjoy the company of their colleagues outside the office. So much bitterness and resentment was always sure to guarantee a fun and festive time was had by all.