Sure, we’ve been to some pretty good parties that just had a DJ, a basic sound system, and a cooler full of drinks. But do we necessarily remember those parts of the party? Well, no. If you want to wow the socks off your holiday party guests try some alternative forms of local entertainment that they’ll be talking about well into the new year.

photo by ANDREA PAULSETH

1. JAZZING IT UP

Eau Claire Jazz Inc. books local professional and student musicians in solos, trios, and plenty of other arrangements to class up your soiree. What about a big band or a string quartet? They can help with those, too. You can have a jazz group as a main act or off to the side, casting a hip vibe over the whole party. Visit eauclairejazz.com for more details.

photo by Marcie Pannell

2. DANCING SHOES

Nothing like a little Mediterranean flavor to spice up your holiday party, right? Local belly dancing groups may seem out-of-season, but the flavor they bring can warm up the room.

photo by LUONG HUYNH

3. FUNNY STUFF

The local comedy scene has exploded in the last few years, offering up a variety of stand-up comics and improv groups that will come and riff on whatever theme you have to your party. Broken copy machines? Drunk uncles? Old, curmudgeonly teachers? Whatever the occasion, comedy can lighten the mood.