7 last minute EOFY party planning tips (even if you haven’t started yet)

So the end of financial year snuck up on you, and now you’re racing the clock to throw something together. The good news? A brilliant last minute EOFY party is possible. And it doesn’t have to feel rushed, chaotic, or like a budget afterthought.

EOFY is the perfect time to celebrate your team’s hard work, reward your staff, thank your clients, or just raise a glass to making it through another financial year. Whether you’re planning something low-key or looking to make a bit of noise, it’s not too late to pull off an event that feels personal and fun.

This guide covers everything you need to plan a last minute EOFY party, from finding a venue with availability, to catering quick wins, styling shortcuts, entertainment ideas, and why Thursdays are your new best friend.

Let’s throw the kind of party that feels planned (even when it wasn’t).

1. Venue first: what’s still available?

When it comes to last minute EOFY party planning, venue availability is usually the biggest hurdle. But here’s a secret: if you’re willing to be a little flexible, you’ll be surprised at what’s still out there.

Look for:

• Hidden gems: Boutique bars, private dining rooms, rooftops, or co-working spaces with event add-ons
• Weeknight wins: Thursdays are the new Friday, especially for corporate parties. That’s because venues are more available and often cheaper
• Afternoon affairs: Consider a late lunch or 3–6pm event if evenings are booked out

Call or email venues directly to check for cancellations, last-minute packages, or off-peak deals. Many venues are happy to accommodate small to medium-sized groups with short notice, especially midweek.

Still stuck? Work with a venue-finding service (hi, that’s us) to fast-track the search. We know who still has space and what works best for a last minute EOFY party that doesn’t feel like a scramble.

2. Keep it simple, stylish, and smart

Just because it’s a last minute EOFY celebration doesn’t mean it has to be basic. The key is to focus on a few impactful details, not everything.

Here’s how to fake a well-planned party:

• Pick a theme (but don’t overdo it): Think ‘corporate chic’, ‘gold and black’, or ‘cocktail & canapés’. You want something that’s easy to pull together and visually cohesive
• Statement styling: A few oversized balloons, floral centrepieces, or branded signage can elevate the space instantly
• Mood lighting: Candles or LED uplights work wonders for setting the tone

Skip the DIY balloon arch and go for a ready-to-hang streamer curtain or a simple photo wall backdrop. Choose one Instagrammable moment, not fifty.

Pro tip: Hire a stylist who offers set packages or event-in-a-box options. They’re often available for last minute EOFY events and can work magic with minimal lead time.

3. Food & drink: crowd-pleasers only

Catering doesn’t need to be complicated. For a last minute EOFY bash, go with reliable favourites and providers who know how to turn things around fast.

Some easy options:

• Grazing tables or boxes: Visually appealing, low fuss, and flexible on guest numbers
  
• Food trucks: Perfect for casual outdoor settings and available with minimal setup
• Canapés + drinks package: Many venues offer fixed per-head packages that take the stress out of choices

Don’t forget dietary options: at least one vegetarian, gluten-free, and non-alcoholic option goes a long way.

And drinks? Go with a short cocktail list, basic spirits, and bubbles on arrival. Or better still, offer one signature EOFY drink (the “Profit & Loss Margarita,” anyone?) to tie it all together.

4. Entertainment: keep it easy, keep it fun

With a last minute EOFY party, your best entertainment choices are the ones that require zero overthinking.

A few options that always land:

• DJ or curated playlist: Ask a musically savvy team member to build a killer playlist or book a local DJ with party experience
• Photo booth or roaming photographer: Instant fun + content for your company socials
• Trivia, awards, or speeches: A simple 30-minute segment can break up the evening and add meaning

Want something interactive? Consider a short cocktail-making class, mini casino tables, or karaoke if your team’s up for it.

Remember: EOFY isn’t your annual conference. It’s about connection, reward, and fun. Don’t overprogram; just make sure there’s music, food, and good energy.

5. Budget-friendly hacks that still impress

Short on time often means short on budget, too. But your last minute EOFY event can still feel generous with a few strategic shortcuts.

Try these:

• Limit the guest list: Quality over quantity. Fewer guests = better experience
• Use internal talent: Got a graphic designer in-house? Ask them to whip up signage or menus
• Repurpose: Use existing office florals, furniture, or decor at your venue
• Sponsor it: See if a supplier or client wants to co-host or offer drinks/products for contra

And if all else fails, free up budget for one “hero” moment, like a champagne tower, luxe dessert table, or surprise entertainment. You want something people will remember – even if it was all planned in a week.

EOFY isn’t about extravagance. It’s about making people feel seen and appreciated. That doesn’t have to cost a fortune.

6. Thursday is your new best friend

Everyone’s chasing Friday nights, but the savvy event planners know: Thursday is the new Friday—especially for a last minute EOFY party.

Here’s why:

• Better venue availability
• Lower food & beverage minimums
• No weekend rates
• Guests are still in work mode (just barely)

Team members are usually up for a Thursday drink, and most clients are happy to attend a pre-weekend event. It’s the perfect balance of convenience and celebratory, without competing with personal plans.

And if you want to stretch the vibe, host an internal team lunch on Thursday and let everyone finish early on Friday. Two wins for the price of one.

Planning late? Go for Thursday. Your team (and your CFO) will thank you.

7. Last minute doesn’t mean last thought

Here’s the real trick to pulling off a great last minute EOFY party: making it feel thoughtful.

Even small details – like a personalised thank-you card, a framed photo from the year, or a round of team awards – can make the night feel like it was months in the making.

Consider:

• A speech or toast that reflects on team wins
• A slideshow of behind-the-scenes moments
• A cheeky gift bag (even if it’s just snacks and branded socks)
  

People don’t remember how long you spent planning. They remember how it made them feel. A meaningful wrap-up and good company go further than lavish florals or fancy venues.

So if you’re short on time, lean into connection over perfection.

And of course, if all else fails, call Venue Crew

Yes, we’re being shameless — but only because we know we can help. Our Venue Crew Specialists are the go-to experts when it comes to sourcing incredible, insider venues for last minute EOFY parties. From exclusive rooftops and hidden cellar doors to luxe private dining rooms and waterfront spaces still flying under the radar, we know who has availability — and who’s worth booking.

Whether you’re after a sleek cocktail party, a long-table team lunch, or an opulent private event space that doesn’t scream “last minute,” we’ve got you.

Oh, and did we mention our service is free?

Let’s make this EOFY one to remember. Talk to our team today.