The office Christmas party is looming, and while team holiday gifts are sorted, the food situation is different. Planning the menu can be daunting, but it doesn't have to be. With the right mix of creativity and strategy, you can whip up a feast that will have everyone raving. Whether thinking of going full-on traditional or spicing things up with something new, we have ideas and recipes to suit every palate.
And if you're feeling the stress, company-branded swag from Giftpack can help ease the load, offering a unique way to combine team holiday gifts with delicious treats.
What is an Office Christmas Party?
A work Christmas party is your chance to let loose and celebrate the holiday season with your coworkers. Your company usually puts it on as a way to say thanks for all the hard work you’ve done throughout the year. While it’s a Christmas party, many companies try to include holidays like Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and even the general winter season. Everyone feels welcome and ready to celebrate!
Why Do Companies Even Throw These Parties?
It’s about more than just having a good time. Companies throw these parties to show appreciation for their employees hard work and allow everyone to unwind and socialize outside the regular work environment. It’s also a chance to build relationships and strengthen the workplace bond as you enter the new year.
Get to Know Your Colleagues: The Social Side of Things
One of the best parts of a work Christmas party is getting to know your colleagues outside the usual workday hustle. Whether chatting over appetizers or teaming up for a party game, it’s a great time to break down some barriers and make new connections. And who knows? You might even discover you have more in common with your coworkers than you thought!
Related Reading
• Holiday Gifts For Employees • Holiday Message To Employees • Christmas Gifts For Employees • Holiday Gifts For Coworkers • Work Christmas Party Games • Christmas Team Building Activities • Staff Christmas Gifts • Holiday Team Building Activities
Why Throw an Office Christmas Party?
Staff Engagement, Motivation, and Retention: Keep Your Team in High Spirits
When employees are happy, they’re more productive. Studies show that unhappy workers have higher absenteeism and make more mistakes. Happy employees can be up to 20% more productive. A Christmas party can be a great way to boost morale and show employees they’re valued. When workers feel appreciated, they’re more motivated to do their best and less likely to leave the company.
Boost Team Morale with End-of-Year Festivities
The holiday season can be stressful, especially when business is booming. Long hours and high-pressure targets can take a toll on staff morale. A Christmas party can provide a much-needed break and give employees something to look forward to. It’s a chance for everyone to come together, celebrate their hard work, and feel like part of a team.
Build Better Relationships with Non-Work Talk
People spend a lot of time at work, but that doesn’t mean they form meaningful connections. A Christmas party can help employees bond over non-work-related topics, strengthening their working relationships. When people get along, they’re more productive and better at problem-solving. It’s a chance for everyone to have fun and let loose.
Break Down Barriers Between Staff and Senior Management
If there’s a divide between employees and senior management, it can be hard for workers to voice concerns or make suggestions. A Christmas party is a chance for everyone to mingle and get to know each other personally. Employees can see that their bosses are human, too, which can make them feel more comfortable bringing up issues or sharing ideas.
Use Your Holiday Party as a Marketing Opportunity
A Christmas party isn’t just good for employees, it’s good for business. Promoting your event on social media can help attract new talent. Potential hires want to work for companies that value their employees and foster a positive work environment. 86% of companies host holiday parties, so you don’t want to be part of the 14% that don’t. Showcasing your party can set you apart from the competition.
Save Money with Tax-Deductible Party Expenses
Throwing a holiday party can be expensive, but the costs are often tax-deductible. This can help offset some of the expenses and make it more feasible for your company to host an event. The benefits of a party, like improved morale and productivity, can outweigh the costs in the long run.
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.
Office Christmas Party Food Ideas: 30 Ideas for Appetisers & Finger Foods
1. Mini Caprese Skewers
Cherry tomatoes, mini mozzarella balls, and fresh basil leaves are arranged on small skewers drizzled with balsamic glaze. These are light, refreshing, and easy to assemble, perfect for a fresh bite between heavier items.
2. Stuffed Mushrooms
Button mushrooms stuffed with cream cheese, garlic, parmesan, and fresh herbs. Baked until golden, they offer a savory, melt-in-your-mouth treat that's rich yet bite-sized.
3. Pigs in a Blanket
Mini sausages wrapped in flaky puff pastry and baked to perfection. Serve with mustard or ketchup for a classic, crowd-pleasing snack.
4. Bruschetta
Crisp slices of baguette topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and basil. Add balsamic vinegar or parmesan for extra flavor. Light, crunchy, and festive.
5. Cheese and Charcuterie Board
Cheese, cured meats, nuts, dried fruits, crackers, and olives are easy to assemble and look impressive without too much effort.
6. Deviled Eggs
Hard-boiled eggs were halved and filled with a creamy mixture of egg yolk, mayonnaise, mustard, paprika, or chives. These classic appetizers are rich and tangy.
7. Spinach and Feta Pastries
Phyllo dough or puff pastry is stuffed with spinach, crumbled feta, and herbs and baked until golden brown. These flaky bites are a hit with everyone.
8. Cranberry Brie Bites
Mini puff pastry cups filled with brie cheese and cranberry sauce. When baked, the brie melts and combines with the tart cranberry for a festive combo.
9. Mini Quiches
Small quiches filled with combinations like ham and cheese, spinach and mushroom, or bacon and cheddar. Versatile bites served warm or at room temperature.
10. Meatballs
Cocktail-sized meatballs made with ground beef or turkey simmered in a sweet, tangy cranberry or BBQ glaze. They're easy to eat with toothpicks and packed with flavor.
11. Shrimp Cocktail
Chilled, poached shrimp are served with a zesty cocktail sauce made of ketchup, horseradish, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce. It's simple, elegant, and always a hit.
12. Holiday Cheese Balls
Mini cheese balls made from cream cheese mixed with herbs, garlic, or sharp cheddar, rolled in chopped nuts, dried cranberries, or fresh herbs. Serve with crackers or vegetable sticks.
13. Stuffed Mini Peppers
Sweet bell peppers filled with cream cheese and chives, goat cheese, or herbed ricotta are colorful and easy to grab in one bite.
14. Antipasto Skewers
Skewers with olives, salami or prosciutto slices, mozzarella cubes, and marinated artichoke hearts or roasted red peppers are packed with bold flavors and textures.
15. Chicken Satay
Grilled chicken skewers marinated in a blend of spices are served with a peanut dipping sauce. This is a more substantial finger food that’s also fun to eat.
16. Bacon-Wrapped Dates
Medjool dates stuffed with almonds or cheese, wrapped in bacon, and baked until crispy. The sweet and salty combo is irresistible.
17. Garlic Parmesan Wings
Crispy chicken wings tossed in a buttery garlic and parmesan sauce. Full of flavor without being overly spicy.
18. Fruit and Cheese Kabobs
Skewers of grapes, strawberries, and cubes of cheddar or gouda cheese. Light, refreshing, and offer a sweet-savory balance.
19. Sausage Rolls
Ground sausage wrapped in puff pastry and baked until golden. British-style savory pastries are perfect for nibbling.
20. Mini Sliders
Beef or turkey patties are served on slider buns with cheese, pickles, and condiments. For variety, veggie or pulled pork sliders are also available.
21. Cucumber Bites
Slices of cucumber topped with cream cheese, smoked salmon or hummus, and fresh herbs are cool, crunchy, and light.
22. Crostini with Smoked Salmon
Toasty baguette spread with cream cheese, topped with smoked salmon, capers, and fresh dill, elegant bites that are easy to prepare.
23. Loaded Potato Skins
Baked potato skins filled with melted cheese, crumbled bacon, and sour cream. Garnish with chives for a flavor-packed appetizer.
24. Vegetable Crudités
A platter of fresh vegetables, such as carrots, celery, bell peppers, and cucumbers, served with dips such as:
- Hummus
- Ranch
- Guacamole
It is a refreshing option.
25. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries
Strawberries dipped in melted dark or milk chocolate, then chilled to harden. A sweet and elegant treat.
26. Ham and Cheese Pinwheels
It's made with crescent roll dough and layered with ham, cheese, and ranch-flavored cream cheese. It's an all-time crowd-pleaser.
27. Cabbage Salad
A crunchy, colorful salad with apple slices and pecans. Brings freshness to the holiday table.
28. Crab Rangoon
Wonton wrappers are filled with a creamy mix of pressure and fried until crunchy. They are delicious when served with sweet chili sauce for dipping.
29. Waldorf Salad
A classic salad with a creamy dressing served in crisp lettuce cups for an elegant touch.
30. Turkey Meatballs
Mini meatballs with dipping sauces like soy-ginger or lemon-herb yogurt are perfect for serving as a party appetizer.
Related Reading
• Best Gift Cards For Employees • Team Christmas Gifts • Holiday Party Ideas For Work • What To Get Employees For Christmas • Gift Cards For Employees Taxable • New Year Gifts For Employees • Thanksgiving Corporate Gifts • Christmas Theme Ideas For Work • Thanksgiving Gifts For Employees
Office Christmas Party Food Ideas: 35 Main Course Ideas
1. Roast Turkey
A classic choice, roast turkey is seasoned and cooked until golden. Pair it with gravy, cranberry sauce, and stuffing for a festive spread. It’s tender and juicy, sure to please everyone.
2. Baked Ham with Glaze
This sweet and savory dish is often coated with honey, brown sugar, or maple syrup. Baking with cloves or mustard adds extra flavor. Serve slices with roasted veggies and rolls.
3. Prime Rib
Prime rib is a luxurious roast beef cut with rich flavor. Typically served with au jus and horseradish cream, it’s elegant and hearty for a Christmas feast.
4. Stuffed Chicken Breasts
Stuffing chicken breasts with spinach, feta, or sundried tomatoes brings flavor and a lighter option. Bake or grill these and serve with roasted vegetables or a salad.
5. Lasagna
This hearty baked pasta dish is layered with ground meat, ricotta cheese, mozzarella, and marinara sauce. Vegetarian versions use spinach or other veggies for a lighter meal.
6. Beef WellingtoThis luxurious dish features beef tenderloin with mushroom duxelles wrapped in puff pastry and baked. It’s a showstopper for meat lovers.
7. Lamb Roast
Marinate lamb roast with rosemary and garlic for a tender, flavorful option. Serve with mint sauce or g and with roasted potatoes or veggies.
8. Salmon en Croute
Wrap a salmon fillet in puff pastry with herbs, spinach, or cream cheese for an elegant, light dish. It’s a perfect fish-based alternative to red meat.
9. Chicken Pot Pie
This pie, filled with chunks of chicken, veggies, and creamy gravy, is baked in a golden, flaky crust. It’s hearty, easy to serve, and perfect for a party.
10. Pork Tenderloin
Roast pork tenderloin with honey mustard, apple cider, or cranberry sauce for a festive touch. It’s tender and juicy and pairs well with mashed potatoes and green beans.
11. Vegetarian Shepherd’s Pie
This twist layers a hearty vegetable stew under mashed potatoes. It’s comforting and filling and a great meatless main course option.
12. Baked Ziti
Filled with ground beef or sausage, marinara sauce, and loads of mozzarella cheese, this baked pasta dish is comforting, easy to serve, and great for large groups.
13. Slow-Cooked Beef Brisket
Brisket becomes tender and flavorful when slow-cooked for hours. Serve with BBQ sauce or a red wine reduction. It’s easy to prepare ahead and serve buffet-style.
14. Vegetarian Stuffed Peppers
Stuff bell peppers with rice, beans, veggies, and cheese, then bake. This colorful, healthy dish is a great vegetarian main course option.
15. Seafood Paella
This dish, cooked with saffron-infused rice, is packed with shrimp, mussels, clams, and chorizo. It’s flavorful, visually stunning, and a crowd-pleaser.
16. Chicken Alfredo
This creamy, decadent dish combines fettuccine with a rich Alfredo sauce and grilled chicken. It’s indulgent and comforting, served family-style.
17. Herb-Crusted Salmon
Top salmon fillets with breadcrumbs, herbs, and lemon zest, then bake for a crispy crust. This light, healthy option is perfect for fish lovers.
18. BBQ Pulled Pork
Shred and mixed with BBQ sauce, slow-cooked pork shoulder is great for a casual party. Serve with rolls for easy sandwiches.
19. Chicken Marsala
This dish features chicken breasts sautéed with mushrooms in a rich Marsala wine sauce. It’s elegant yet approachable, ideal for an office gathering.
20. Ratatouille
This classic French dish layers sliced veggies like zucchini, eggplant, and tomatoes baked in tomato sauce. It’s a healthy, vibrant, vegan-friendly option.
21. Duck à l'Orange
Roast duck with tangy orange sauce offers a festive, luxurious choice. The rich meat and citrus glaze create a unique flavor experience.
22. Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
Cabbage leaves are stuffed with ground meat, rice, and spices and baked in tomato sauce. These rolls are hearty, flavorful, and comforting.
23. Shrimp Scampi
Sauté shrimp in garlic, butter, and white wine, served over linguine or with crusty bread. This seafood dish is light yet flavorful.
24. Beef Stroganoff
Cook tender beef strips in a creamy mushroom and sour cream sauce, served over egg noodles. It’s a hearty, comforting dish.
25. Honey-Glazed Carrots and Parsnips
Roast carrots and parsnips tossed in honey and herbs. With its sweet and savory combination, this side dish can serve as a vegetarian main course.
26. Gnocchi with Pesto
Toss potato gnocchi in fresh basil pesto sauce. It’s a delicious vegetarian option, light but flavorful for pasta lovers.
27. Roasted Vegetable Tart
Fill a savory tart with roasted veggies like zucchini, peppers, and tomatoes, baked in a buttery crust. It’s colorful and hearty.
28. Moussaka
Layer ground lamb or beef with eggplant and béchamel sauce, then bake until golden. This Greek favorite is rich and comforting.
29. Chicken Parmesan
Top breaded chicken breasts with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella, served over pasta or with garlic bread. This classic is sure to be a hit.
30. Roast Beef with Gravy
Tender roast beef with rich gravy is a classic main course. It pairs well with mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables.
31. Lentil Stew
This hearty stew with lentils, carrots, celery, and spices is warm and comforting, perfect for vegetarians or those looking for a lighter dish.
32. Fried Chicken
Crispy, golden-fried chicken is always a hit. Serve it with coleslaw and biscuits for a comforting meal satisfying everyone.
33. Tandoori Chicken
Marinate chicken in yogurt and Indian spices, then bake or grill. Serve with naan bread and yogurt sauce for a flavorful, exotic main course.
34. Roasted Pork Loin
Roast a lean cut of pork glazed with apple cider or honey. Slice it up and serve with roasted vegetables and potatoes.
35. Vegetable Lasagna
This Italian classic features layers of pasta, ricotta cheese, and roasted veggies like zucchini, spinach, and mushrooms. It’s hearty, cheesy, and vegetarian-friendly.
Office Christmas Party Food Ideas: 30 Desserts & Cocktail Ideas
Certainly! Here's a comprehensive list of desserts and cocktails for your office Christmas party.
Sweet Treats to Savor: 15 Dessert Ideas
1. Mini Yule Logs
Small chocolate sponge cakes filled with cream and rolled to resemble traditional Yule logs, dusted with powdered sugar for a festive touch.
2. Gingerbread Cookies
Classic spiced cookies shaped like Christmas trees, stars, or gingerbread men. They’re great for decorating as a party activity.
3. Peppermint Bark
Layers of dark and white chocolate topped with crushed candy canes. Sweet, minty, and perfectly festive!
4. Mini Cheesecakes
Individual-sized cheesecakes topped with festive berries or holiday-inspired sauces like caramel or spiced apple.
5. Eggnog Bread Pudding
A holiday twist on traditional bread pudding, made with rich eggnog and a dash of nutmeg for extra warmth.
6. Christmas Trifle
Layers of sponge cake, custard, whipped cream, and fruits like strawberries or raspberries are served in a clear trifle bowl for a showstopping effect.
7. Sugar Cookies
Buttery cookies cut into festive shapes and decorated with colored icing and sprinkles. Simple yet delicious.
8. Fruitcake Bites
Mini versions of the classic Christmas fruitcake, loaded with dried fruits and nuts, make for easy serving.
9. Chocolate-Dipped Pretzels
Pretzel rods dipped in chocolate and decorated with sprinkles or crushed candy canes for a salty-sweet snack.
10. Cranberry Bars
Tart cranberries baked into buttery shortbread bars for a balance of sweet and tangy flavors.
11. Buche de Noel (Yule Log Cake)
A traditional French Christmas cake made with sponge cake rolled with cream filling and decorated to look like a log.
12. Mini Pavlovas
Crisp meringue shells filled with whipped cream and topped with seasonal fruits like pomegranates or cranberries.
13. Christmas Fudge
Rich, chocolatey fudge infused with festive flavors like peppermint or eggnog, cut into bite-sized squares.
14. Sticky Toffee Pudding
A rich, warm dessert made with dates and topped with a sweet toffee sauce, perfect for the colder months.
15. Spiced Carrot Cake
Moist carrot cake with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, topped with a cream cheese frosting and walnuts.
Cheers to the Season: 15 Cocktail Ideas
1. Spiked Eggnog
Classic eggnog spiked with rum, bourbon, or brandy, garnished with a sprinkle of nutmeg or cinnamon.
2. Mulled Wine
Red wine simmered with spices like cinnamon, cloves, and oranges. It’s perfect for sipping during a holiday gathering.
3. Cranberry Mimosas
A festive twist on the classic mimosa, made with cranberry juice and sparkling wine, garnished with fresh cranberries.
4. Hot Buttered Rum
A warming cocktail made with rum, butter, brown sugar, and a mix of holiday spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.
5. Peppermint Martini
A refreshing holiday cocktail with vodka, peppermint schnapps, and a candy cane rim for a minty kick.
6. Christmas Sangria
A festive sangria made with red wine, brandy, cranberries, oranges, and cinnamon sticks for a seasonal twist.
7. Holiday Moscow Mule
This is a Christmas spin on the Moscow Mule, featuring cranberry juice, vodka, ginger beer, and fresh lime, served in a copper mug.
8. Cinnamon Whiskey Sour
It is a traditional whiskey sour with a hint of cinnamon for a warm, spicy flavor.
9. Spiced Apple Cider Cocktail
Spiked apple cider with bourbon or rum, served warm and garnished with cinnamon sticks and apple slices.
10. Poinsettia Cocktail
A light, bubbly cocktail made with cranberry juice, orange liqueur, and sparkling wine, great for toasting the season.
11. Irish Coffee
Hot coffee spiked with Irish whiskey and sweetened with sugar, topped with whipped cream for a cozy holiday drink.
12. Candy Cane Martini
A mix of vanilla vodka, white crème de cacao, and peppermint schnapps, served with a crushed candy cane rim.
13. Gingerbread Old Fashioned
A holiday twist on the classic Old Fashioned made with bourbon, gingerbread syrup, and a dash of bitters.
14. Snowball Cocktail
A retro holiday cocktail made with advocaat (a creamy egg-based liqueur), lemonade, and a touch of lime for a sweet, bubbly drink.
15. Winter Margarita
This is a margarita with a winter twist. It features cranberry juice, tequila, and a splash of orange liqueur, served with a sugared rim.
How to Plan a Christmas Party for The Office?
Choosing the Right Date
Think about when everyone’s available. Skip big holidays and weekends in December to avoid clashing with other plans. Getting the date right is your first move.
Crafting the Guest List
Decide who cuts. Are you inviting just the team, or do you want a more open vibe with plus-ones? Your budget and venue will guide you here so you can handle the crowd.
Booking the Venue
If you’re not hosting at the office, lock in your venue early. Popular spots fill up fast, and you don’t want to miss out because you waited too long.
Sending Invitations
Get those invites out as soon as your date and venue are set. Everyone’s busy this time of year, so the earlier you send them, the better your turnout will be.
Planning the Menu
Whether you’re going full-on catering or potluck, get your menu sorted. Finger foods like hors d’oeuvres work great for mingling. Throw in some holiday classics like eggnog and cookies to keep things festive.
Setting Up Decorations
You can’t have a Christmas party without the right decor. Think Christmas trees, lights, and festive colors. If you’ve got a theme, make sure your decorations match it.
Organizing Entertainment and Games
Get some entertainment lined up. Maybe you have a talented coworker who can play some music, or you want to organize games like Charades or Pictionary. It keeps the vibe lively.
Preparing Party Favors
Send your guests home with a little something. Think personalized ornaments or holiday treats like cookies. It’s a simple way to say thanks for coming.
5 Extra Tips to Make Your Office Party Successful
1. Involve Your Team in the Planning Process
Get your team’s input. Use a survey to gather insights on past activities and ideas for future ones. Encourage team members to suggest party themes and types of favors. Consider having your team contribute to a shared playlist, making them feel more involved in planning.
2. Be Inclusive
When planning your holiday party, remember that people on your team may celebrate different winter holidays or not celebrate at all. In addition to activities based on specific holidays, some secular winter-based activities are also included to ensure everyone feels included and comfortable.
3. Select a Fun Theme
While a general holiday theme can still make for a fun party, consider selecting a unique, specific theme to add excitement. A pajama party, an ugly sweater party, or a similar theme can get your team members more involved and make the party feel more special. Classic holiday movies or songs can also make great party themes, adding a fun and festive atmosphere.
4. Incorporate New Activities
Keep your team engaged by offering new activities compared to previous holiday parties. If possible, 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 on the schedule.
5. Send Guests Home with a Festive Favor or Gift
A small party favor or gift can be nice 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 keep the holiday spirit going even after the party’s over. You can use an employee gifting platform like Giftpack to order practical and useful gifts that employees would want.
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.
Related Reading
• Holiday Swag Ideas • Holiday Party Gift Ideas For Employees • Holiday Gifts For Remote Employees • Gift Giving At Work Guidelines • New Year Team Building Activities • Account Based Marketing Gifts • Holiday Bonuses • Office Holiday Party Gift Ideas • Thanksgiving Employee Appreciation Ideas • Holiday Staff Appreciation Ideas • New Year Corporate Gifts
Make your gifting efficient and improve employee attrition rates with Giftpack AI
Visit our product page to unlock the power of personalized employee appreciation gifts.
