Excuses not to attend a work Christmas party?

[Janedoe95]

I’m on Mat leave anyway and it’s about 2 hours away so I’m not interested in going far away from my breastfed baby… especially as I can’t even drink lol

but I need a reasonable excuse so that I still seem committed to my job.

I don't think people really care much if people go or don't go to the Christmas party. Maybe it's different in more shmoozy industries, but generally speaking, people aren't really bothered. The poor sod doing the party organising just wants people to respond to the email. Someone who responds promptly with a 'no' is better than someone who refuses to respond at all.