The holiday season is rolling around, and for many, this means the all-important office Christmas party. It’s a chance to unwind, connect, and celebrate a year of hard work, but it’s also a chance for you to show your team how much you appreciate them. And what better way to do that than with the right team holiday gifts? We’ll help you pick out great Christmas gifts for your employees, so you can give them an unforgettable end to the year.
Giftpack is the ultimate company branded swag platform for companies. You can use it to create custom gifts for your employees, like branded apparel, drinkware, and tech gadgets. They’ll love these thoughtful gifts, and you’ll love how easy it is to make them happen.
What Is A Christmas Party For Employees?
A work Christmas party is a festive event hosted by employers to celebrate the holiday season and bring employees together in a more relaxed, social setting. These parties usually happen at the office or a rented venue like a restaurant or event space. While they’re centered around Christmas, many companies make an effort to recognize other holidays like:
• Hanukkah
• Kwanzaa
• Winter season
Why Do Companies Host Work Christmas Parties?
Beyond celebrating the holidays, work Christmas parties offer a chance to reflect on the past year's hard work. They’re often seen as a thank you from employers, recognizing the efforts of their team. It’s also a time for everyone to unwind, socialize outside of the regular work environment, and reset before the new year kicks off.
The Perks of a Festive Gathering
One of the best things about a work Christmas party is connecting with colleagues outside of the usual workday hustle. Whether you’re chatting over appetizers or teaming up for a party game, it’s a great time to build relationships and strengthen the workplace bond.
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Why Throw An Office Christmas Party For Employees?
Boost Engagement and Retain Top Talent
Throwing a holiday party can do wonders for employee engagement. When team members enjoy each other's company, they connect with the company's goals and become more motivated. Studies show that disengaged workers have higher absenteeism and make more errors.
Engaged and happy employees are up to 20% more productive. And who doesn't want a productive team? Feeling valued by an employer leads to a motivated and loyal team, reducing turnover.
Lift Team Morale
When business is booming, it's usually because your team is working their tails off. Long hours and stress can take a toll, leading to burnout. A holiday party gives everyone something to look forward to and boosts morale. It shows employees they're valued and part of something bigger. It creates a common ground for everyone to bond, strengthening your team.
Build Better Relationships
Just because employees spend a lot of time at work doesn't mean they know each other well. A holiday party provides the perfect setting for team members to connect on a personal level. Stronger personal connections lead to better working relationships and collaboration, boosting productivity.
Humanize Senior Management
If employees feel there's a barrier between them and senior management, they're less likely to voice concerns or offer suggestions for improvement. A holiday party brings everyone together and gives employees a chance to see the human side of their bosses. It also gives management an opportunity to show they can have fun, helping break down those barriers.
Leverage a Great HR Marketing Opportunity
Hosting a holiday party isn't just good for employees, it's also a great HR marketing tool. It shows potential hires that you're a great place to work. If you're trying to attract new talent, showcasing the benefits you offer can make all the difference. Plus, when employees feel valued, they're more likely to recommend your company to others.
Take Advantage of Tax Deductions
Throwing a holiday party does cost money, but many of the expenses are tax-deductible. So while you're giving your team a great time, you're also doing something good for your bottom line.
Personalized Client Gifting Made Easy
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5 Way To Make Your Christmas Party For Employees Fun & Interactive
1. Themed Dress-Up Contest: Unleash Your Inner Holiday Character
A themed dress-up contest can transform your Christmas party into a lively celebration. Encourage employees to get creative by dressing as holiday characters such as:
• Elves
• Reindeer
• Snowflakes
You could also opt for the classic ugly sweater theme. Offer a small prize for the most inventive outfit. Watch as laughter and camaraderie unfold, creating an atmosphere of friendly competition and festive cheer.
2. Gift Exchange with a Twist: The Joy of Surprise
Add excitement to traditional gift-giving with a twist.
• Organize a “White Elephant” or “Secret Santa” exchange. In White Elephant, participants pick a wrapped gift from the pile, but others can “steal” it, leading to hilarious interactions.
• Setting a theme like “gifts under $20” or “handmade gifts” can add an extra layer of fun.
These exchanges engage everyone and create memorable moments.
3. Interactive Games and Competitions: Let the Fun Begin
Bring energy to your party with interactive games and competitions. Activities like trivia, holiday charades, or a scavenger hunt can be great icebreakers. Divide employees into teams and offer prizes for winners. If your team is remote or hybrid, these games can easily be adapted for virtual play. They not only entertain but also build connections among staff.
4. DIY Holiday Craft Stations: Get Creative
Craft stations allow employees to express their creativity. Set up areas where they can decorate Christmas ornaments, make holiday cards, or create ugly sweater accessories. These hands-on activities encourage conversation and creativity, and employees can take home personalized mementos of the celebration.
5. Photo Booth Fun: Capture the Memories
A photo booth with holiday-themed props adds an element of fun and creates lasting memories. Props like Santa hats, elf ears, and reindeer antlers allow everyone to let loose and enjoy posing with colleagues. You can print photos for attendees to take home or compile a digital album to share with the team later.
75 Unique Christmas Party Gift Ideas For Employees
1. Personalized Notebooks
Custom notebooks with names or logos offer a personal touch. They're practical for meetings and brainstorming, serving as a constant reminder of your appreciation.
2. Extra Paid Time Off
During the busy holiday season, extra time off is invaluable. It's a thoughtful way to show you care about their work-life balance.
3. Customized Mugs
Personalized mugs with names or inspirational messages make coffee breaks special. This simple gesture enhances daily routines.
4. Portable Phone Chargers
Essential in today’s tech-driven world, branded power banks keep devices charged for business or personal use.
5. Bluetooth Speakers
Compact and portable, these speakers are ideal for music or podcasts, enhancing relaxation at home or during breaks.
6. Ergonomic Desk Accessories
Items like adjustable stands and wrist rests show you care about comfort and well-being, promoting good posture and efficiency.
7. Gift Cards
To popular stores or restaurants, gift cards offer flexibility, allowing employees to choose something they genuinely want.
8. Custom Apparel
Branded T-shirts or hoodies foster team spirit and pride, perfect for casual Fridays or company outings.
9. Self-Care Kits
Kits with bath salts and essential oils encourage relaxation, showing employees you value their well-being.
10. Personalized Calendars
Custom calendars with company milestones remind employees of achievements while helping them plan.
11. Wireless Earbuds
Ideal for remote workers or commuters, wireless earbuds provide a tech-savvy way to enjoy music or take calls.
12. Office Supplies Kits
Stylish sets of pens and planners help employees stay organized, boosting workplace efficiency.
13. Insulated Water Bottles
Personalized bottles encourage hydration and reduce plastic waste—useful for staying hydrated at the office or on the go.
14. Fitness Trackers
Promote wellness with trackers that monitor health metrics, supporting health goals and work-life balance.
15. Scented Candles
Calming fragrances like lavender transform any room into a relaxing space, promoting a peaceful atmosphere.
16. Work-from-Home Care Packages
For remote workers, care packages with snacks and coffee enhance the home office setup.
17. Personalized Caps
Custom caps add style and practicality, perfect for casual outings or team events, promoting a unified spirit.
18. Noise-Canceling Headphones
These block out distractions, helping maintain focus in busy office environments or during remote work.
19. Customized Phone Cases
Personalized phone cases add style to a frequently used item, offering a daily reminder of individuality.
20. Gourmet Coffee or Tea
Specialty blends cater to tastes, providing a comforting ritual during the workday.
21. Stress Balls or Fidget Toys
These offer a way to unwind during breaks, helping reduce stress and improve focus.
22. Inspirational Wall Art
Motivational quotes or custom artwork inspire positivity and personal growth, adding beauty to their environment.
23. Branded Hoodies or Jackets
Comfortable hoodies or jackets with the company logo build company culture and serve as a wearable reminder of team value.
24. Home Office Décor
Stylish organizers or framed pictures improve home office aesthetics, creating a personal and inspiring workspace.
25. Healthy Snack Boxes
Filled with healthy options, these boxes provide guilt-free snacking, supporting wellness goals.
26. Board Games
Encourage bonding with interactive board games, ideal for break time or team-building exercises.
27. Personalized Laptop Sleeves
Stylish sleeves with names or designs protect tech accessories, offering a practical and personalized gift.
28. Eco-Friendly Reusable Bags
Durable bags made from eco-friendly materials reflect a commitment to sustainability, useful for daily activities.
29. Customized Face Masks
Stylish branded masks provide comfort and protection, a thoughtful gift as health and safety remain priorities.
30. Memory Foam Pillows for the Office Chair
Ergonomic pillows provide lumbar support, showing care for physical well-being during long work hours.
31. DIY Craft Kits
Kits encourage creativity, offering a hands-on break from work while developing new hobbies and skills.
32. Subscription Boxes
Tailored to interests, these boxes provide recurring enjoyment, offering a personal and thoughtful experience.
33. Fitness Equipment
Resistance bands and yoga mats encourage a healthy lifestyle, promoting wellness in the workplace.
34. Personalized Desk Nameplates
Custom nameplates add a personal touch to workspaces, making desks feel truly theirs.
35. Cookbook with Recipes from Around the World
A cookbook featuring international recipes inspires culinary adventures, encouraging the exploration of different cultures.
36. Portable Humidifiers
Improve air quality with compact humidifiers, enhancing comfort in the office or home office.
37. Custom Pens
Luxury engraved pens make writing special, offering a practical yet sophisticated gift.
38. Mindfulness Journals
Journals encourage reflection and mental wellness, helping maintain balance and mindfulness.
39. Mini Desk Games
Desk-sized games offer a fun way to take a quick mental break, adding playfulness to the office.
40. Subscription to a Meditation App
App subscriptions provide guided meditations, helping reduce stress and improve focus.
41. Travel Mugs
Insulated mugs keep beverages hot or cold, perfect for on-the-go or home use.
42. Tech Organizer Pouches
Organizer pouches keep tech accessories neatly stored, a practical gift for staying organized.
43. Booklight
A portable booklight is perfect for late-night reading sessions, whether for work or leisure.
44. Digital Photo Frames
Display rotating collections of photos, personalizing workspaces with joyful images.
45. Recipe Box
Stylish boxes store and organize favorite recipes, ideal for those who love to cook.
46. Leather Bound Planners
Elegant planners keep employees organized, adding sophistication to daily tasks.
47. Virtual Cooking Class Voucher
Cooking class vouchers offer a fun way to learn new skills and bond with loved ones.
48. Branded Backpack
High-quality backpacks are perfect for commuting or travel, personalized with logos or names.
49. Personalized Coasters
Coasters with initials or designs add a personal touch to desks or homes, protecting surfaces.
50. Indoor Herb Garden Kits
Herb garden kits allow employees to grow fresh herbs, adding greenery to spaces.
51. Gourmet Chocolate
Artisanal chocolates offer a sweet treat, perfect for enjoying during breaks.
52. Streaming Service Subscription
Subscriptions provide relaxation and enjoyment, perfect for unwinding after a long day.
53. Desk Fan or Heater
Personalized fans or heaters enhance comfort, maintaining the perfect temperature year-round.
54. Essential Oil Diffusers
Diffusers create a calming atmosphere, helping employees feel refreshed.
55. Portable Espresso Maker
For coffee lovers, portable espresso makers offer high-quality coffee during work breaks.
56. Coffee Table Books
Beautifully designed books inspire creativity, providing visual enjoyment.
57. Wireless Charging Pads
Charging pads offer convenience, allowing devices to charge without cords.
58. USB Mug Warmers
Keep beverages warm with USB mug warmers, perfect for long hours at the desk.
59. Personalized Socks
Fun designs or initials make socks quirky and personal, offering comfort and uniqueness.
60. Personalized AirPods Case
Custom cases protect AirPods, offering a stylish and practical gift.
61. Craft Coffee Kits
Kits allow experimentation with brewing methods, elevating the coffee experience.
62. Virtual Reality Headsets
VR headsets offer immersive experiences, perfect for gaming or virtual meetings.
63. Healthy Living Books
Books on wellness inspire employees to prioritize health and personal growth.
64. Pet Accessories
Personalized pet tags or toys show you value employees' furry companions.
65. Handwritten Note of Appreciation
A heartfelt note expresses gratitude, showing you value them beyond material items.
66. Phone Mount for Desk
Stands or mounts keep devices visible and accessible, improving workspace organization.
67. Cooking Gadgets
Innovative kitchen tools like air fryers make meal prep fun for cooking enthusiasts.
68. Audiobook or eBook Subscriptions
Subscriptions provide access to thousands of titles, perfect for enjoying during commutes.
69. Amazon Prime Subscriptions
Prime offers discounted delivery and access to streaming services, a valuable gift.
70. Learning & Development Subscriptions
Subscriptions to services like MasterClass offer skill development and personal growth.
71. Charitable Donations
Donations in employees' names to worthy causes show social responsibility and appreciation.
72. Dinner Out
Gift cards for meals out offer an experience to enjoy with family or friends.
73. Travel Gift Cards
Gift cards for AirBnB or hotels help fund vacations, brightening up the winter season.
74. Airline Gift Cards
Airline gift cards support travel plans, perfect for remote workers who love to explore.
75. Spa Days
Spa day vouchers help employees unwind, offering relaxation and stress relief.
What Makes A Perfect Gift For An Employee?
Gifts Employees Love: Practicality
When thinking of holiday gifts for your team, start with practical items they can use every day.
• Gifting a high-quality water bottle that features a sleek design and a leak-proof lid.
• Consider ergonomic desk accessories that improve comfort and productivity.
• Tech gadgets like wireless chargers or noise-canceling headphones can also elevate their work experience.
These gifts are not just functional, they also remind employees of your company each time they use them.
Personal Enjoyment and Wellness: Show You Care
Gifts that promote well-being are always a hit.
• Think cozy blankets, perfect for a lazy Sunday, or wellness kits that include herbal teas and soothing bath bombs.
• A personalized journal can be a great way for employees to unwind and reflect.
• Aromatherapy candles or relaxation tools can add a personal touch that shows you care about their happiness beyond work.
Trendy and Tech-Savvy Items: Stay Relevant
Keeping up with tech trends can make your gifts feel modern and relevant.
• Smart home devices like voice-activated speakers or wireless earbuds are popular choices.
• Sustainable products are also on-trend, and items like eco-friendly gear or accessories can align with your employees' values.
These gifts are not only trendy, but they also show that you’re in tune with current preferences.
Personal and Thoughtful: Make It Special
Personalization is the key to making your gifts stand out.
• Custom-branded apparel can be a fun way to show team spirit, while gifts that reflect individual interests can make employees feel seen and appreciated.
• Consider a DIY terrarium kit as a thoughtful gift.
Personal touches go beyond standard corporate gifting and create a sense of recognition.
How Do I Plan A Christmas Party For Employees?
Lock in the Date and Time
Start by setting the date. Employees' calendars fill up quickly during the holiday season, so aim for early December or mid-January. Choose a time that's convenient, whether during or after work hours. Keep a few options open when booking your venue.
Decide on the Vibe
Think about the tone you want for the event. Is it a formal affair, a casual get-together, or a fun theme party? Your choice will guide everything from invitations to decor, making for a cohesive experience.
Nailing Down the Budget
Break out the spreadsheets. Allocate funds for the venue, food, drinks, entertainment, and decorations. Keep 15% of the budget flexible for last-minute additions. Don't worry if your budget's tight—there are plenty of ways to create a memorable event without breaking the bank.
Pinpoint the Perfect Venue
Choose a location that fits your budget, party size, and entertainment plans. Venues book up fast during the holiday season, so secure your spot a couple of months in advance.
Invitations: The First Impression
Send out invitations with all the key details:
• Date
• Time
• Location
• Dress code
Let employees know if they can bring a plus-one. To get everyone excited, make sure the invitations match the theme.
Crafting the Menu
Food is the star of any holiday party. Decide on a menu that suits the vibe—whether it’s hors d’oeuvres, a buffet, or a sit-down dinner. Take into account dietary restrictions to ensure everyone has something to enjoy.
Entertainment That Clicks
Keep guests entertained with games, music, or live performances. If budget allows, consider hiring a DJ or band. Otherwise, a well-curated playlist and some interactive music choices will do the trick. This is also a great time for leadership to give speeches and recognize achievements.
Build the Buzz
Get employees excited with sneak peeks and regular updates. Use social media to build anticipation and keep the event top of mind.
Party Time!
When the day arrives, dive in and enjoy. This is your chance to connect with employees and show appreciation. Let loose and soak in the atmosphere.
Keep the Energy Going
After the party, share photos and highlights on company channels to keep the buzz alive. Gather feedback with a survey to see what worked and what could improve next time.
5 Best Tips To Make Your Christmas Party For Employees Successful
1. Gathering Input from Your Team
Empower your team with a party they’ll truly enjoy. Use a survey to gather insights on past activities and potential new ones. Encourage team members to suggest themes and party favors. You might even have them contribute to a shared playlist.
2. Creating an Inclusive Environment
When planning your holiday party, consider that people on your team may celebrate different winter holidays, or not celebrate at all. Include some secular winter-based activities to ensure everyone feels included and comfortable.
3. Choosing a Unique and Fun Theme
A general holiday theme is fine, but a unique, specific theme can add an extra element of excitement. Consider a pajama party, an ugly sweater party, or something similar. Classic holiday movies and songs also make great themes, adding a fun and festive atmosphere.
4. Incorporating New Activities
Keep your team engaged by offering new activities compared to previous holiday parties. Reflect on past parties and think about what activities you’ve already done. Make small changes to annual activities to keep them exciting, and include a few completely new games or crafts.
5. Sending Guests Home with a Festive Favor or Gift
A small party favor or gift can be a nice touch to end the evening. It could be something simple, like a Christmas ornament, a self-care kit, a holiday treat, or a personalized thank-you note. It’s a thoughtful way to show appreciation and keeps the holiday spirit going even after the party’s over.
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FAQs On Christmas Gift Giving For Employees
Thoughtful Gifts for Colleagues: Keep It Simple and Meaningful
When giving Christmas gifts to coworkers, aim for a balance between thoughtfulness and appropriateness. Opt for items that show appreciation without veering into overly personal territory. Consider practical gifts like: • Stylish notebook
• Gourmet coffee assortment
• Decorative desk plant
You could also choose experiences like a group lunch or a team-building activity. The key is to recognize the professional relationship while keeping the gesture light and considerate.
Team Gifts: Fostering Camaraderie and Connection
Gifting to a group of coworkers? Look for something everyone can enjoy together. Think of items that promote team bonding, like a board game for the break room or a shared subscription to a streaming service. Other options include:
• Catered lunch
• Group outing
• Custom gift basket filled with snacks and goodies
The goal is to create a shared experience that strengthens team spirit and acknowledges collective efforts.
Boss-to-Team Gifts: Boosting Morale and Showing Appreciation
Should bosses give employees holiday gifts? Absolutely. It’s a fantastic way to show gratitude for a year of hard work. The gift doesn’t need to be extravagant; it’s the thought that counts. Consider personalized items for each team member, or go for something universally appreciated, like a holiday bonus or extra time off. You could also arrange a team lunch or an outing to celebrate the season. Whatever the choice, make it clear that you value your team’s contributions.
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