Party acts that hype up the crowd: Recommended entertainment and performances for banquets and drinking parties [2026]
Farewell and welcome parties at work, year-end and New Year gatherings, after-parties with friends, and class reunions.
There are quite a lot of banquets and drinking parties, aren’t there?
They’re basically fun, but there’s one time that troubles new hires, young employees, and juniors… yes, the “entertainment segment”!
People often say, “Do something!” or “Can’t you do something funny?” and you end up covering it with an awkward smile, right?
In this article, we’ll introduce lots of recommended ideas for when you can’t dodge party entertainment, including skits and performances everyone can do together.
Be sure to use it as a reference when you’re in a pinch!
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Buzzworthy party acts: Recommended entertainment and performances for banquets and drinking parties [2026] (21–30)
No-Hand Sunglasses
This party trick, “No-Hands Sunglasses,” is all about taking off the sunglasses you’re wearing without using your hands.
It’s a very surreal kind of party act, but it ties into facial comedy, so it’s really funny to watch! Shaking your head is off-limits—use your facial muscles to move the sunglasses.
It’s impressive if you can make them fall off, but the fun is in the process, so it’s totally fine if they don’t come off in the end! Set a time limit and have several people try it.
It might be a hit if someone who’s usually cool and never makes funny faces gives it a shot.
crushed cardboard
Have you heard of “no-crush cardboard”? It’s a bit performed by the comedian Q-Taro Suzuki as a “once-a-year act that works worldwide.” You take an ordinary cardboard box you can find anywhere, assemble it normally, stand on one of its corners, and by distributing your weight evenly, supposedly you can stand on it without crushing it! But actually, that’s a lie (lol) — no matter how hard you try, you can’t do it! It’s a party trick where you first raise expectations by saying, “You can do this,” then fail—because the failure is what makes it funny!
papercutting
Here’s an introduction to “kamigiri,” a performance you can do with just paper and scissors.
This is truly a skill-based art, so it takes practice, but if you can perform it, it’s sure to make you stand out at any party.
Simply put, you present improvised paper-cut art while talking.
What you say is up to you, but it’s good to touch on the theme—what you’re expressing.
Watching hands move decisively without any preliminary sketch makes you excited, wondering what it will become.
Once you’ve chosen a theme, start by drawing a rough outline at first and practice so you can cut smoothly.
wotagei
Wotagei is a performance known for being done by fans at idol concerts.
Recently, videos of wotagei set to popular songs have been released, and it’s even become a staple party trick.
So if your company is holding a party or a social gathering, why not put on a wotagei performance? Even first-timers can make it look impressive with a bit of practice—perfect for a quick show.
If older attendees who may not be familiar with wotagei will be there, try choosing a song that was a revival hit or otherwise well-known to their generation.
Call
If you’re looking for a surefire party trick to get everyone hyped, how about doing a “call”? You sing a song everyone knows, add claps and call-and-response shouts, and encourage people to keep the drinks flowing.
At a party with lots of drink lovers, it’s a fun way to enjoy the booze, and the fact that everyone can sing along is a big plus.
Many banquet venues have karaoke available, so keep that in mind.
This idea uses Masahiko Kondo’s “Gingiragin ni Sarigenaku,” but choosing a song that fits the group’s generation will make it even more popular.
quick costume change
A mysterious quick-change performance where your outfit transforms completely in just a few seconds.
The key is to create magical moments with movements that match the rhythm and clever use of pauses.
Even those staring intently will feel compelled to applaud, instantly livening up the group date! By layering different outfits under your stage costume and incorporating cues so you can change with a pop at just the right moment, everyone’s eyes will sparkle and smiles will spread.
Show a little bit of magic and make your group date an even more fun time!
cheering squad
What’s being featured is a signature of the Tokyo University of Agriculture cheer squad: the Daikon Dance.
Dressed in their squad uniforms, they begin their cheer in a crisp, electrified atmosphere, but the sight of them performing while holding a daikon radish in each hand feels familiar and even brings a chuckle.
If you have a gathering or party with alumni from the university, why not showcase this beloved cheer from your alma mater? Performing it in its formal version will evoke nostalgia, and incorporating playful elements—like the daikon—can turn it into a lively crowd-pleaser.