SPONSORED EDITORIAL

Christmas is barrelling towards us full-force and thoughts are inevitably turning towards festive parties.

But those office dos and celebrations with extended family can so often take a turn for the lack-lustre. Awkward chit-chat, someone who has had a drink too many, perfunctory canapés and a rapidly warming booze selection – it adds up to a night swiftly forgotten and the feeling that money has been wasted.

Which is where Hollywood Bowl can intervene, because they take any event and make sure that it is focuses on one key aim – fun. And that means games, bubbles, festive food and giddy decorations.

Operating at five Kent venues - Ashford, Gravesend, Maidstone, Rochester andTunbridge Wells – they offer a range of terrific party packages, fully tailorable to the size and desires of your group, from just £21.99.

If you consider that the average spend on a Christmas night out in the UK is an eye-watering £42.48 per head, that's quite a saving.

And instead of quaffing tepid lager and politely enquiring nattering about everybody’s plans for Christmas (snore), a party at the Hollywood Bowl will kick off with two games of rowdy, rambunctious ten-pin bowling, in specially decorated festive lanes.

Buoyed by a friendly competitive spirit, guests down a chilled drink (champagne or prosecco is available on request), nosh on nachos and fling themselves into the festive spirit with Santa hats, party poppers and balloons.

It’s an excellent means of melting the ice with co-workers or bridging the gap between family members you may usually struggle to connect with.

With a dedicated host, there’s no chance of an energy dip, and after the games have been played (complete with prizes and awards) everyone can enjoy a full festive buffet.

Want to go the extra mile? There’s the option to upgrade to include framed photos of your group within the package, or an extra bottle or two of champagne.

The standard package is available from just £21.99, and includes

• Two games of bowling

• A chilled drink on arrival

• Nachos at the lane and a festive buffet after

• A dedicated host

• Prizes and awards

For more information, visit www.hollywoodbowl.co.uk/christmas