Your Office Party, Somewhere That Doesn't Feel Like the Office
A Holiday Party Venue in Brooklyn That Doesn't Feel Like Every Other Office Party
Company holiday parties tend to happen in one of two settings: a generic hotel ballroom, or a rented-out restaurant that still looks like a restaurant. 501 Union is neither — an industrial-chic Brooklyn venue with a 50-foot skylight, exposed brick, and a scale that can flex from an intimate department dinner to a 400-person all-hands celebration. Chandeliers, string lighting, brick, and a marble bar mean less decor spend to make the space feel festive — many companies use the Cocktail Lounge as-is for a lower-lift holiday happy hour. With several tiered bar packages and the ability to build a custom cocktail menu, holiday party planning doesn't require sourcing a separate bar vendor. Every booking includes a dedicated venue manager, cleaning staff, and security/doorman, with bartenders and coat check available to add — useful for December, when coat check actually matters.
Layouts & What's Included
Cocktail-style reception (Reception Hall + Lounge): up to 400 guests — best for a large all-company party with food stations and a full bar.
Seated dinner with dance floor: up to 140–160 guests — for a more formal awards dinner or leadership celebration.
Cocktail Lounge only: ideal for a smaller department party or client holiday reception, centered around the 15-foot marble bar.
What's Included: Every booking includes a dedicated venue manager, professional cleaning staff, and a doorman/security guard, with bartenders and coat check available to add.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many guests can 501 Union hold for a holiday party?
Up to 400 for a standing cocktail-style event, or 140–160 for a seated dinner.
Do we need to hire our own bartenders?
No — in fact, you can't bring outside bartenders. All bar service runs through 501 Union's in-house program exclusively.
Can we bring in our own catering for a holiday party?
Yes, outside caterers are welcome with a valid Certificate of Insurance, or you can choose from the venue's preferred vendor list.
Is there a coat check option?
Yes, coat check attendants can be added to your staffing package.
How far in advance should we book a December holiday party?
December dates at popular Brooklyn venues tend to book early; contact the venue directly for current availability.
Host Your Event in Brooklyn, New York
It's hard to ignore the energy of Gowanus, a largely industrial neighborhood situated between Carroll Gardens and Park Slope. Stroll the streets and you’ll discover something new around every warehouse corner; bustling storefronts, unique activities like shuffleboard, archery and even kayaking on Gowanus’ namesake canal; studios filled with printmakers and wood workers diligently perfecting their craft.
Voted ‘2015 Neighborhood of the Year’ by Curbed NY, Gowanus has quickly become a haven for artists, creative makers, and burgeoning start-ups pioneering the new wave of Brooklyn respectfully alongside the neighborhood's longstanding industrial manufacturers.
Gowanus has many wonderful and unique options for lodging, dining, culture and nightlife. Our team is happy to point you in the right direction.
501 Union is just four subway stops to Lower Manhattan. Take the F/G to Carroll Street or R to Union Street. We encourage ride share, and the closest parking lot is at 365 Bond Street. We are also happy to make recommendations for valet for your guests.
