Winter Event Essentials

From Christmas markets to corporate parties and temporary pop-up venues, winter events rely heavily on dependable power, effective heating and well-planned lighting.

At Paragon Tool Hire, we provide a full range of temporary power, heating and lighting solutions for both events and construction projects. 

If you’re organising a winter event, here’s your guide to building a warm, well-lit, fully powered space that guests and workers can enjoy.
 

Why Winter Events Need Specialist Equipment

• Lower temperatures, shorter days and increased power demands mean that winter events require more planning than summer events. Key considerations include:
• Heat requirements. Spaces lose heat quickly, especially temporary structures such as marquees.
• Lighting quality. Natural light disappears early, so both work zones and guest areas need reliable artificial lighting.
• Power load. Catering, sound systems, bar equipment and heating often exceed the supply available on-site.
• Weather resilience. Equipment must operate safely and efficiently in cold, wet and windy conditions.

Choosing the right equipment ensures compliance with safety standards, protects staff and guests, and keeps the event running smoothly from setup to pack-down.

Powering Christmas Parties

Any event that outgrows a plug socket needs a reliable power source, especially during winter when heaters, catering equipment and lighting all demand their share of energy.

That’s where diesel generators come into their own. They’re tough, steady and unbothered by icy temperatures. Once running, they provide clean, consistent electricity to everything from festoon lights to sound desks to catering units.
 

Popular Generator Options
 

Stephill 6.0kVA Diesel Generator
A compact electric-start diesel generator that delivers 110V or 240V power through multiple sockets. Ideal for small catering units or bar equipment.
 

Stephill 20kVA Diesel Generator (Silenced)
Super-silenced diesel generator. Ideal for small to medium events, indoor halls and backstage areas.
 

Stephill 60kVA Diesel Generator (Silenced)
Excellent for larger winter sites needing stable, quiet power for multiple zones.

JCB 100kVA Diesel Generator
Trailer-mounted diesel generator. Perfect for large-scale festivals, winter trails and full-site distribution.
 

We also supply the cables, junction boxes, transformers and distribution boards that keep power flowing exactly where it’s needed. And when you want total peace of mind, we can even handle the entire installation and fuel management. (We looked after more than 1000 electrical hookups at the British Grand Prix, along with marquee power, lighting towers and fuel services, so you’re in very warm hands.)
 

Heating Solutions for Winter Events

Diesel heaters are built for the kind of consistent, long-duration heating that winter events demand. Temporary structures such as marquees and barns lose heat rapidly, especially when doors open frequently. A diesel heater provides the continuous warm air needed to maintain a comfortable temperature throughout the day or evening.

They also don’t require an electrical supply, making them ideal for remote locations.

Popular Diesel Heating Options

Master BV 77 Indirect Oil Heater
A dependable mid-sized heater that produces clean, fume-free warm air. Ideal for medium marquees and event venues.

Indirect Oil Heater (85kW / 29,000 BTU/hr)
Looking for a reliable way to heat large indoor spaces? Delivers strong airflow and fast heat-up times.

AIRREX AH-300i Infrared Heater 
A highly efficient infrared heater that provides clean, odourless warmth. Perfect for workshops, garages and medium commercial spaces.

AIRREX AH-800i Infrared Heater 
Need powerful, low-emission heat for larger areas? Offers exceptional coverage, rapid warmth and quiet operation.
 

Best Practices for Event Heating

To achieve consistent heat:

• Pre-heat marquees 1-2 hours before guests arrive
• Position heaters outside the structure and duct warm air inside (for indirect units)
• Use multiple smaller heaters rather than one oversized heater for even coverage
• Add an entrance heater to maintain temperature when doors are opened frequently
• Keep fuel topped up and accessible for long-running events

Diesel heaters require no electrical power and can run independently of the main generator, which helps reduce the overall power load for the event.

Lighting Solutions for Winter Events

Lighting is critical during winter - not just for presentation, but also for safety. As daylight fades mid-afternoon, event sites rely on a combination of practical and decorative lighting to create a safe, welcoming environment.

Choosing Suitable Lighting

Warm-colour lighting can make a space feel more comfortable and inviting, especially when guests are arriving from the cold. Warm whites, ambers, golds and soft yellows help avoid the cold appearance created by bright, blue-toned LEDs.

For Outdoor Areas

Paths, car parks, service tracks and catering zones all need to be lit safely. Temporary floodlights, tower lights and task lighting ensure guests never stumble and staff can work efficiently even when night falls before tea-time

Legal Requirements for Site Lighting

Under the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992, employers must ensure that workspaces have sufficient and suitable lighting. During winter, artificial lighting is essential due to shorter daylight hours.

Site lighting may need to be fixed to scaffolding, tower cranes, temporary buildings or mobile supports. Reliable lighting helps prevent accidents, supports accurate work and ensures productivity throughout darker periods of the day.

View our full range of site lighting equipment or contact our team on 01280 822282 to find out more.

Additional Safety Considerations for Winter Projects

Whether you’re running an event or managing a construction site, winter introduces several predictable hazards. Taking preventive steps reduces risk and improves overall efficiency.

Clearing Hazardous Areas
Areas prone to ice should be regularly cleared and treated with grit. Hazard signage is recommended around high-risk zones.

Educating Staff
Workers and event crew should understand how to operate equipment safely in adverse weather. Clear instructions and signage help prevent accidents.

Maintaining Visibility
Adequate lighting ensures safe movement around the site. Poor lighting is a major contributor to slips, trips and machinery errors.

Monitoring Worker Health
Cold conditions can lead to fatigue, reduced coordination or early signs of hypothermia. Staff should be encouraged to take regular warm breaks and wear suitable PPE such as thermal gloves and strong, insulated boots.
 

Keep Your Winter Event Safe, Warm and Operational

Whether you’re organising a festive event or keeping a construction site operational throughout the winter months, our team can help you choose the right equipment for safe and comfortable operation. Call us on 01280 822282 to learn more about how we can support you all year round.