The holiday season is here, and so are those office parties. Balancing festivities and professionalism can be tricky, but it's worthwhile. A well-executed event can boost morale, strengthen team bonds, and reward hard work. Whether you're a seasoned planner or a first-timer, fresh ideas can make all the difference. We've gathered some creative and practical ideas to help you plan a memorable party. From themed events to virtual fun, these tips will help you throw a bash that hits the right note. With the right guidance, you'll create an unforgettable event that leaves everyone smiling with unique team holiday gifts.
Giftpack makes team bonding easy with company branded swag, offering personalized gifts that align with your company’s culture.
What is a Work Holiday Party?
Work holiday parties are an end-of-year celebration where coworkers can unwind and enjoy the festive season away from the usual office routine. These gatherings typically happen in December and are often themed around holidays like:
- Christmas
- Hanukkah
- New Year’s
They're a time for everyone to socialize, celebrate the year's accomplishments, and bond in a laid-back atmosphere.
What to Expect at the Party
There’s usually an abundance of food and drinks, music, and sometimes even games or gift exchanges like Secret Santa. While the vibe is relaxed and fun, it’s still a work function, so maintaining a professional demeanor is key. These parties are a fantastic opportunity to chat with colleagues you might not interact with daily and show appreciation for the hard work everyone’s put in throughout the year.
The Social Side of Things
The social aspect is a big deal at these events. Making connections is a big part of the experience. You get to know coworkers personally, boosting morale and teamwork when you return to the office. It’s a chance to let loose and enjoy yourself before diving into the new year.
The Importance of Participation
Getting involved in the festivities is important. Whether helping with the planning or just showing up and having a good time, being part of the celebration shows your investment in the team. It’s a chance to share some laughs, relax, and maybe even learn something new about your colleagues.
Why are Holiday Parties for Work Important?
Holiday parties and team-building activities are key to boosting morale and motivation. They create a sense of camaraderie among employees. Did you know that 85% of employees say holiday parties positively impact morale? Celebrating together makes teams feel more connected, increasing productivity and a happier work environment.
Employees Love Seasonal Events
Employees enjoy the holiday spirit. A study by Travel Perk found that 60% of employees prefer seasonal events, like holiday parties, over traditional team-building activities. Holiday-themed gatherings are often more engaging and relaxed, making team members feel more comfortable and open to bonding.
Affordable Celebration Options
Many companies worry about the costs of throwing holiday parties, but these events don’t have to break the bank. While an average in-office holiday party might cost between $3,000 and $4,000, plenty of more affordable options exist. Companies can opt for simple holiday games, virtual parties, or even potlucks to celebrate the season without overspending.
Employers Covering Costs Matters
A TTF survey showed that 70% of employees feel their employer should pay for food and drinks during holiday parties. When companies invest in these events, employees feel valued and appreciated. This can go a long way in building loyalty and a stronger connection to the company.
Benefits for In-Person and Remote Teams
Whether your team is in the office or working remotely, holiday team-building activities are a great way to bring everyone together. For in-person teams, shared experiences like holiday games or volunteer work can deepen relationships. For remote teams, virtual holiday gatherings allow colleagues to connect in a more relaxed, personal setting, breaking down the isolation of remote work.
Happiness
Team building events inherently promote honest feedback, mutual respect, and openness. Research suggests that happy employees are up to 20% more productive. In addition, well-designed team-building exercises break up the workday/week and give employees a chance to have some fun with each other! We think almost everyone can agree that more fun leads to more happiness!
Custom AI-Powered Gift Selection Process
At Giftpack, our driving force is to simplify the corporate gifting process while maximizing the impact of each gift. Utilizing our custom AI algorithm, we create highly customized scenario swag box options for you. We deliver globally and have an extremely user-friendly platform. We curate the most fitting gifts from a vast catalog of over 3.5 million products worldwide (which is ever-increasing).
By carefully considering an individual's basic demographics, preferences, social media activity, and digital footprint, we tailor each gift selection process regardless of whether the recipient is an employee, a customer, a VIP client, a friend, or a family member. With a wide range of locally and globally sourced gifts, we ensure that personalized gifting is accessible and achievable on a large scale, delivering meaningful connections across the globe.
Try Giftpack's client gifting service for free today.
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How Do I Plan an Office Holiday Party?
Save the Date: A Key First Step
Kick off the planning by setting a date as soon as possible. Your team’s calendars are likely filling up, so get your event penciled in early. Consider early December or mid-January to avoid holiday travel conflicts. Decide whether to hold the party during or after work hours. Having a few time options can help when you book the venue.
Set the Tone: Establish the Vibe
Determine the mood and theme of your office holiday party. Will it be a formal, casual, or a fun ugly sweater event? Selecting a theme helps you create a cohesive experience. Choose invitations and decor that match the vibe. This clarity makes other decisions easier as you move forward.
Budgeting: Crunch Those Numbers
Get a handle on costs by budgeting for the:
- Venue
- Food
- Drinks
- Entertainment
- Decorations
Keep about 15% aside for unexpected expenses. Tight budget? No problem. Consider hosting at the office, organizing a potluck, and setting up some simple games to keep the fun rolling.
Venue Selection: Secure Your Spot
Find a venue that fits your budget, party size, entertainment needs, and availability. Popular spots fill up quickly, so aim to book at least two months in advance. This ensures you have a space that accommodates your vision and guest list.
Invitations: Get the Word Out
It's time to let everyone know about the holiday bash! Include all the essential details, such as the date, time, location, event description, dress code, and whether plus-ones are allowed. Decide who to invite:
- Individuals
- Department
- Whole company
Menu Planning: Food and Drink Decisions
Food is often the highlight of an office holiday party. Once you know how many people will attend, start planning the menu. Decide between hors d’oeuvres, buffet style, or a formal sit-down dinner. Don’t forget about drinks. Be mindful of dietary restrictions to ensure everyone can enjoy the feast.
Entertainment Options: Keep the Energy Up
Keep guests entertained with activities or games like bag toss or darts. If your budget allows, hire a DJ or band. If not, play music from office speakers and let guests vote on their favorite tunes. This is also a great time for leadership to express appreciation and highlight team achievements.
Build Excitement: Keep the Hype Going
Get your team fired up by sharing sneak peeks and updates on social media. Encourage employees to engage by reacting and commenting. Building anticipation helps ensure the party is a topic of conversation leading up to the event.
Enjoy the Moment: Celebrate Together
When the day arrives, embrace the moment. Approach the event with warmth and excitement. Connect with your team personally and show appreciation for their hard work. Let loose and have fun!
Keep the Party Alive: Share and Reflect
Post photos on your company newsfeed to maintain the buzz. Allow employees to interact with the posts to boost engagement. Share a survey to gather feedback on the event. This helps you understand what to keep and improve for the next holiday party.
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45 Creative & Fun Holiday Party Ideas for Work
1. Tree Decorating Competition
Spark creativity by hosting a tree decorating contest. Provide mini trees and decorations, or have remote employees share their festive setups. Encourage sustainable materials for an eco-friendly twist. Let the team vote on categories like Most Creative or Best Use of Recycled Materials.
2. Gingerbread Decorating
Get creative with a gingerbread house or cookie decorating session. Provide kits with pre-baked pieces and eco-friendly decorations. Set up virtual or in-person sessions where team members can showcase their creations. Add themes like Most Creative Design or Best Use of Natural Ingredients.
3. Xmas Photo Scavenger Hunt
Organize a holiday-themed scavenger hunt. Create a list of festive items to find and photograph. Teams can hunt around the office or their homes and share their findings. Add bonus challenges like Most Creative Photo or Funniest Holiday Scene.
4. Wrap Battles
Host a gift-wrapping competition with a twist. Encourage the use of eco-friendly materials. Provide sustainable wrapping supplies and set up stations for teams to compete. For remote teams, hold a live wrapping session over a video call. Let the team vote on the Most Creative or Best Use of Materials.
5. Send a special holiday package
Surprise employees with a holiday gift box. Build anticipation by having employees wait to open them until the party. Include fun and thoughtful items that reflect the holiday spirit.
6. Secret Santa gift exchange
Organize a Secret Santa gift exchange where employees draw names and anonymously exchange gifts. This classic holiday activity fosters surprise and camaraderie.
7. Holiday trivia challenge
Host a holiday trivia challenge with seasonally related questions. Test employees’ knowledge of holiday traditions, history, and pop culture. This activity is perfect for virtual or in-person gatherings.
8. Ugly sweater contest
Hold an ugly sweater contest to inject humor and creativity into the workplace. Encourage employees to wear their most outrageous and festive sweaters and compete for the ugliest (and most amusing) holiday attire.
9. Virtual caroling session
Bridge the gap for remote teams with a virtual caroling session. Coordinate a time for employees to join a video call and sing their favorite holiday tunes together. This uplifting activity fosters togetherness and spreads holiday joy.
10. Holiday Pictionary tournament
Host a holiday-themed Pictionary tournament. Create a list of holiday-related words or phrases and have teams compete in a series of rounds. This lively game encourages communication and teamwork.
11. Virtual holiday cookbook
Encourage employees to share their favorite holiday recipes in a virtual cookbook. Collect recipes for festive dishes, treats, and drinks from team members and compile them into a digital cookbook.
12. Holiday charity drive
Organize a holiday charity drive. Collaborate with a local charity and encourage employees to:
• Donate items • Funds • Volunteer time
This philanthropic activity brings the team together for a common cause and positively impacts the community.
13. Festive virtual escape room
Challenge teams to a virtual escape room with a holiday twist. Choose a themed escape room that encourages problem-solving and collaboration.
14. Holiday movie marathon
Organize a holiday movie marathon. Create a list of festive films and schedule a virtual or in-person screening session. Encourage employees to bring their favorite snacks and share their thoughts on the movies.
15. DIY holiday card station
Set up a DIY holiday card station in the office or virtually. Provide materials for employees to create personalized holiday cards. Encourage them to write notes of appreciation or warm wishes for their colleagues.
16. Holiday ice skating
Organize a team ice skating outing. Book a time at a local ice rink and encourage employees to bring or rent their skates. This seasonal activity is perfect for December.
17. Carol Karaoke
Host a Carol karaoke session. Grab a karaoke machine and queue up a Christmas karaoke playlist. Encourage employees to belt out their favorite holiday tunes.
18. Holiday Origami
Organize a holiday origami session. Gather paper in Christmas colors and play an origami tutorial. This creative activity allows employees to make ornaments, decorations, or gifts.
19. Merry Murder Mystery
Host a Christmas-themed murder mystery party. Choose a script and gather props and costumes. This interactive activity encourages employees to get into character and work together to solve the mystery.
20. Cookie Swaps
Organize a cookie swap where employees bring in homemade cookies to share. Arrange the treats buffet-style and encourage employees to make up a plate of assorted goodies.
21. Video Christmas Card
Create a video Christmas card with your team. Decide on a theme and shoot a greeting. Edit the footage together and send it to the team, or post it on a company page.
22. Ultimate Holiday Game Show (in-person or virtual)
Host an Ultimate Holiday Game Show where teams face off in a series of classic game show challenges with seasonal twists.
23. New Year’s resolutions reflection
Facilitate a reflective session where employees share their accomplishments and set goals for the upcoming year. This activity encourages self-awareness and team support.
24. Holiday desk-decorating contest
Host a holiday desk-decorating contest where employees transform their workspaces into winter wonderlands. This friendly competition promotes individual expression and creates a festive atmosphere.
25. Virtual gift-wrapping workshop
Organize a virtual gift-wrapping workshop. Hire a professional gift-wrapping expert or have team members share tips and tricks.
26. Holiday scavenger hunt
Organize a holiday-themed scavenger hunt in the office or virtually. Create a list of festive items or clues and have teams compete to find or solve them.
27. Virtual potluck party
Host a virtual potluck party where employees share their favorite holiday recipes and dishes. Participants can showcase their culinary skills by preparing and presenting their recipes.
28. Team-building board games party
Arrange a board games party with holiday-themed games or classics. This relaxed activity allows team members to unwind, engage in friendly competition, and strengthen their bonds.
29. White Elephant Gift Exchange
Organize a White Elephant Gift Exchange where employees bring humorous gifts to swap. This activity guarantees laughs and amusement for all participants.
30. Edible Paint Night with a Christmas Twist
Host an edible paint night where employees use cocoa butter-based paints to create artistic works.
31. Holiday Relay/Olympics
Organize a series of holiday-themed relay races or Olympic-style events. Create teams and set up different stations for activities like snowball toss, Christmas tree decorating races, or a gift-wrapping sprint.
32. Christmas Light Tours
Organize a Christmas light tour, during which employees drive or walk through neighborhoods known for their elaborate light displays. End the evening with a round of cocoa.
33. Merry Meme-making
Organize a meme-making session. Employees use a meme generator to add text to pictures. Share the creations in team emails or Slack threads.
34. Holiday Happy Hours
Host a holiday happy hour with a menu of Christmas cocktails. Include holiday games and activities like trivia, Bingo, and icebreaker questions.
35. Holiday Feud
Host a Holiday Feud game in which teams compete to create the most popular responses to seasonal questions.
36. Ice Skating
Organize a team ice skating outing at a local rink. Encourage employees to bring their skates or rent them.
37. Team Recipe Book
Create a team recipe book by asking employees to submit their favorite holiday recipes. Organize the recipes into book form and send the anthology to the team.
38. Stocking Stuffers
Encourage employees to hang stockings on their desks or office doors and fill them with kind notes and small gifts.
39. Advent Calendar Activities
Create an advent calendar with a surprise schedule of seasonal events. Each day, teams will check the calendar to find out the activity for the day.
40. Fantasy Christmas List
Organize a Fantasy Christmas List activity where employees build extravagant wish lists full of expensive and over-the-top items.
41. Hot Cocoa Breaks
Set up a hot cocoa station with mix-ins like whipped cream, marshmallows, and peppermint dust, and invite employees to indulge in the drinks and interact with each other.
42. Holiday Movie Night
Host a holiday movie night with a pajama dress code, fuzzy blankets, and Christmas-themed snacks. Use an app like Teleparty to sync video for remote teams.
43. Christmas Tradition
Start a team Christmas tradition by choosing an annual activity to commemorate the holiday season.
44. Seasonal Team Playlist
Ask employees to name their favorite Christmas songs to create a seasonal team playlist. Play the playlist in the office or send the link to remote employees.
45. Ice Bar
Visit an ice bar, where everything from the tables to the drink glasses is made of ice. This unique experience creates a great photo op and a memorable holiday outing.
5 Tips to Throw a Successful Holiday Party for Work
1. Get Everyone's Input for a Great Party
Start by involving your team in the planning process. Use a survey to ask about past activities and gather fresh ideas. Encourage team members to suggest themes and party favors. Let them contribute to a shared playlist. This involvement boosts excitement and makes everyone feel part of the celebration.
2. Celebrate All Winter Holidays
It’s crucial to remember that not everyone celebrates the same holidays. Include secular winter activities to ensure everyone feels comfortable. This approach fosters an inclusive atmosphere where everyone can enjoy the party without feeling left out.
3. Pick a Fun and Unique Theme
Choosing something unique while a classic holiday theme works can elevate the experience. Consider a pajama party, an ugly sweater contest, or themes inspired by holiday movies. These themes encourage participation and create memorable experiences.
4. Try New Activities This Year
Introduce new activities to keep the energy up. Reflect on past parties to avoid repetition. Make small tweaks to traditional games and add fresh ones to the mix. This keeps the party exciting and ensures everyone has a great time.
5. Send Guests Home with a Thoughtful Gift
As the party wraps up, send guests home with a small token of appreciation. It could be a Christmas ornament, a self-care kit, or a personalized thank-you note. Use an employee gifting platform like Giftpack to find practical and meaningful gifts. This gesture extends the holiday spirit and leaves a lasting impression.
Related Reading
• Holiday Gifts For Remote Employees • Holiday Bonuses • Office Holiday Party Gift Ideas • Gift Giving At Work Guidelines • Holiday Staff Appreciation Ideas • Account Based Marketing Gifts • Holiday Party Gift Ideas For Employees • Thanksgiving Employee Appreciation Ideas
Build A Meaningful Employee Recognition Program With Ease with Giftpack's Client Gifting Service
At Giftpack, our driving force is to simplify the corporate gifting process while maximizing the impact of each gift. Utilizing our custom AI algorithm, we create highly customized scenario swag box options for you. We deliver globally and have an extremely user-friendly platform. We curate the most fitting gifts from a vast catalog of over 3.5 million products worldwide (which is ever-increasing).
By carefully considering an individual's basic demographics, preferences, social media activity, and digital footprint, we tailor each gift selection process regardless of whether the recipient is an employee, a customer, a VIP client, a friend, or a family member. With a wide range of locally and globally sourced gifts, we ensure that personalized gifting is accessible and achievable on a large scale, delivering meaningful connections across the globe.
Try Giftpack's client gifting service for free today.
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