25+ Festive Work Christmas Party Ideas to Try This Year
A great work Christmas party brings people together in a way few workplace events can. The decorations feel a little brighter, the conversations feel a little lighter, and the entire team gets a moment to celebrate everything they’ve accomplished together. Planning one, though, can feel like its own full-time job. You want something fun, festive, and memorable, but it also needs to be realistic, easy to pull off, and something your employees will genuinely look forward to.
Companies often default to the same holiday routines every year, which is why finding fresh, thoughtful work Christmas party ideas is so valuable. A mix of classic favorites, creative twists, and a few new trends can turn a simple gathering into an event people talk about long after January rolls around. Whether your team loves a good white elephant exchange, prefers a cozy night of treats and games, or needs remote-friendly options that keep everyone involved, there are plenty of ways to make your celebration feel special.
The sections ahead walk through a range of ideas, from decor and themes to activities and gifts, designed to spark inspiration and help you build a holiday event your whole team will enjoy.
Office Christmas Decor Ideas That Sleigh
Creating a festive atmosphere is one of the easiest ways to lift spirits during the holiday season. A well-decorated office sets the tone for your celebration and gives employees an instant mood boost as soon as they walk in. You don’t need a big budget to make the space feel warm and cheerful, just a few thoughtful touches that make everyday work areas feel a little more magical.
- Modern minimalist greenery. Natural greenery is having a moment, and it’s a simple way to elevate your holiday decor without overwhelming the office. Think eucalyptus garland along reception desks, mini potted evergreens near workstations, or a simple wreath with neutral ribbon.
- A “merry mailroom” display. Turn a wall or cubicle divider into a holiday mail station where employees can pin up cards, leave notes of appreciation, or drop off small treats. It looks cheerful and makes it easy for coworkers to share holiday cheer.
- Cozy corner lounge. Designate a small break room or unused corner as a winter lounge with soft lighting, a faux fireplace video on loop, warm blankets, and a few seasonal pillows. The cozy vibe becomes a natural gathering place throughout the season.
- Themed tree with team-ornament activity. A Christmas tree is a classic office staple, but it becomes more personal when the team helps decorate it. Provide clear ornaments and let employees fill them with glitter, confetti, or handwritten notes.
- Festive window or glass wall art. For offices with lots of glass, removable window clings or white chalk markers are easy ways to add snowflakes, stars, and simple holiday illustrations without leaving residue. It’s subtle, clean, and instantly brightens the workspace.
- Photo-ready backdrop wall. Set up a holiday photo backdrop with a fabric banner, string lights, and a few tasteful props. People love taking pictures at work events, and having a dedicated spot elevates the experience.
- DIY hot cocoa bar setup. A small table with jars of cocoa mix, marshmallows, candy canes, and seasonal mugs brings warmth into the office and doubles as a team-building moment. Employees appreciate the festive pick-me-up during busy days.
- Desk decor starter packs. Offer employees a mini kit (think a small ornament, a strand of garland, or a tiny holiday figurine) to decorate their desk. It encourages participation without requiring people to bring in their own supplies or go overboard.
Classic Work Christmas Party Ideas That Always Impress
Some traditions never lose their charm, especially during the holidays. Classic work Christmas party ideas stay popular because they strike the right balance between nostalgia, simplicity, and genuine fun. These options are familiar, easy to plan, and consistently bring people together; perfect for teams that enjoy reliable, crowd-pleasing activities.
1. White elephant gift exchange
A white elephant exchange adds lighthearted chaos to any gathering. Set a spending limit, choose a theme if you want, and let the swapping begin. Employees always end up laughing, negotiating, and trying to outsmart one another; every year, it becomes a highlight.
2. Secret Santa with personalized gift notes
Secret Santa remains a favorite because it encourages thoughtful giving. Invite employees to include a short note explaining why they chose the gift or what they appreciate about their coworker. The added personal touch brings warmth to the exchange without requiring a big budget.
3. Holiday potluck with a “family favorites” twist
A potluck is classic, but asking everyone to bring a dish tied to a family tradition makes it far more personal. People love sharing the stories behind their recipes, which opens the door to fun conversations you don’t normally hear at work. The mix of food and nostalgia creates an easy, natural way for the team to connect.
4. Cookie decorating or holiday treat tasting
A cookie-decorating table gives employees a fun, relaxing activity they can join whenever they have a few free minutes. It keeps the atmosphere lively and encourages conversations as people compare their creations. If you prefer something simpler, a holiday treat tasting offers the same festive spirit with less setup.
5. Office cookie swap
A cookie swap brings out everyone’s inner baker and gives employees the chance to take home a variety of treats without having to do all the work themselves. Ask each participant to bring a batch of their favorite holiday cookies, then set up a simple table where people can trade and fill a mixed box to take home. The sharing aspect makes it feel festive and personal, and the assortment always becomes a talking point at the party.
6. Ugly sweater day + photo booth
Ugly sweater day always sparks laughter and gives everyone the chance to show off their most outrageous holiday look. Adding a small photo booth moment (string lights, a backdrop, and a few props) makes the experience feel even more memorable. It also gives the company fun photos to share internally after the event.
7. Classic holiday movie hour
A holiday movie hour is a low-effort, high-impact way to bring people together during the season. Pick a crowd favorite, add popcorn and candy, and you’ve got an easy break from the usual workday routine. If your team prefers a quick option, short holiday clips or nostalgic throwbacks work just as well.
8. Ornament decorating station
Set up a table with plain ornaments, paint pens, glitter, ribbon, and stickers. Employees can personalize one for their tree at home or create a keepsake for their desk. This hands-on station adds a personal touch and keeps people engaged.
9. Hot cocoa + coffee bar upgrade
Upgrading the usual refreshments with toppings like crushed candy canes, flavored syrups, and whipped cream feels small but makes a big difference. People appreciate having something festive to sip on during a busy workday. The setup also doubles as a gathering spot where employees naturally mingle.
Creative and Unique Work Christmas Get-Together Ideas for 2025
Teams are always looking for something a little different during the holidays; activities that feel current, fun, and memorable without requiring weeks of planning. These ideas blend creativity with practicality so your celebration stands out while still being easy to execute. Each one adds a modern twist to the traditional work Christmas party and gives employees something to look forward to genuinely.
10. Holiday “taste tour” around the office
Turn different areas of the office into mini tasting stations featuring seasonal snacks or drinks from various regions or cultures. It’s a casual way for employees to wander, explore, and try new flavors together. The experience feels elevated but requires only simple setups and small bites.
11. Build-your-own ornament bar
Instead of a standard decorating table, offer modern materials such as wood slices, clear, fillable ornaments, metallic paint pens, and dried botanicals. Employees enjoy the chance to create something aesthetic that fits their home decor. People often leave the event talking about the designs they made, which leaves a lasting impression.
12. Mystery stocking challenge
Fill a few stockings with wrapped items (some useful, some silly) and give employees clues before they choose one. The mix of mystery and humor brings out everyone’s competitive side without feeling over-the-top. It’s quick, festive, and perfect for teams that enjoy a little guessing game.
13. Holiday cocktail/mocktail competition
Invite teams to craft a signature holiday drink and present it for a group taste test. You can keep cleanup simple with disposable cups, a few mixers, and premade bases. The friendly competition energizes the room and leads to lots of laughter as people compare their creations.
14. Desk decorating contest
Give each department a small decor budget and let them create a themed desk area, then open the office for a walkthrough. Categories like “Most Creative,” “Coziest Corner,” or “Best Use of Lights” add structure without making it too competitive. The results always spark conversation and bring a bit of joy to the workday.
15. Cozy fireside chat with leadership
Set up a casual, comfortable space with soft lighting and host an informal Q&A session with company leaders. People appreciate the chance to ask questions, share wins, and reflect on the year in a relaxed setting. It’s meaningful, cost-effective, and builds connection heading into the new year.
16. Holiday minute-to-win-it games
Quick, silly challenges (like stacking cups, candy cane relays, or ornament balancing) bring out everyone’s playful side. Employees can join for a few minutes or stay for the whole set, making it flexible for various schedules. The energy stays high without needing a full party agenda.
17. Micro-volunteering event
Set up stations for quick volunteer activities, such as writing holiday cards for seniors, assembling small care kits, or wrapping donated gifts. Employees feel good knowing they’re making an impact during the season. It’s meaningful, easy to coordinate, and aligns perfectly with end-of-year giving efforts.
18. Festive charcuterie board workshop
Bring in a local chef or have a skilled team member teach a short class on building holiday-themed snack boards. Employees enjoy learning something useful while sampling their creations afterward. The photos alone make this a memorable event.
19. Holiday trivia showdown
Host a trivia competition featuring Christmas movies, songs, traditions, and fun pop-culture questions. Trivia is approachable for everyone and keeps the energy upbeat, especially when small prizes are on the line. It’s one of the easiest ways to spark friendly competition without elaborate planning.
Work Christmas Party Themes to Elevate Your Event
A great theme pulls the entire celebration together and makes your planning feel intentional instead of last-minute. You don’t need elaborate props or big budgets to create something memorable, just a clear direction and a few thoughtful touches. These work Christmas party themes strike the right balance between festive and achievable, giving you options that appeal to all kinds of teams.
20. Cozy cabin Christmas
Lean into soft lighting, faux greenery, plaid tablecloths, and rustic touches for a warm, lodge-inspired atmosphere. Serve comfort foods like chili, charcuterie, or hot cider to match the vibe. Employees love how relaxed and inviting this theme feels during a busy time of year.
21. Winter wonderland whiteout
Decorate with all-white elements: snowflakes, frosted accents, soft white lights, and shimmering details. The monochromatic look feels elegant and surprisingly easy to pull together. It gives the entire office an elevated, wintry glow without requiring bold colors.
22. Christmas pajama party
Give the team permission to show up in their coziest holiday pajamas for a lighthearted, comfortable celebration. Pair it with a hot cocoa bar, holiday movie clips, or games for a relaxed event that feels like a nostalgic snow day. People love the low-effort charm and playful spirit this theme brings out.
23. Santa’s workshop
A workshop theme adds a fun, hands-on element to your celebration. Include stations for building ornaments, wrapping small gifts, or personalizing items that employees can take home. The setup encourages creativity and keeps the energy high throughout the event.
24. Holly jolly happy hour
Keep things simple with a festive drink menu, light bites, and holiday playlists. Whether you include cocktails, mocktails, or both, the atmosphere stays upbeat without needing a complete program. It’s perfect for teams that want something social and easygoing.
25. Around-the-world holiday celebration
Highlight how cultures around the world celebrate the season through decor, snacks, music, and traditions. Employees enjoy exploring unique holiday customs, trying new foods, and discussing their own traditions. The theme feels thoughtful, inclusive, and conversation-worthy.
26. Sparkle & shine soirée
If your team enjoys dressing up, a glitzy metallic theme creates an instant sense of celebration. Gold, silver, and champagne tones paired with soft lighting and simple decor elevate the whole experience. It’s an excellent option for a formal holiday dinner or after-hours event.
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Company Holiday Party Ideas for Remote Teams
Remote teams deserve celebrations that feel intentional, not like another mandatory Zoom meeting. The key is choosing activities that naturally create connection, spark conversation, and keep the mood light without relying on complicated tech or long-term commitments. These ideas help remote employees feel included and appreciated during the holiday season, no matter where they’re logging in from.
27. Virtual holiday cookie swap
Ask each person to share a favorite holiday cookie recipe in advance, then compile them into a team recipe booklet. Everyone can bake a batch before the event and bring their creations to the call for a casual show-and-tell. It’s simple, personal, and adds a cozy touch to a virtual gathering.
28. Online gingerbread house competition
Send participants a small gingerbread kit or give them a budget to purchase one locally. During the event, set a timer and let everyone build while chatting and showing their progress on camera. The final reveal always leads to laughter and friendly bragging rights.
29. Virtual “holiday around the world” tour
Invite team members to share a tradition from their culture, background, or family while the group enjoys holiday music. You can also play short, pre-selected videos highlighting unique celebrations from around the globe. It’s educational, uplifting, and helps teammates learn something new.
30. Festive trivia game night
Host a holiday trivia session with categories spanning movies, songs, winter traditions, and pop culture moments. Small prizes like digital gift cards make participation fun without complicating logistics. Trivia keeps the energy high and works well for groups of any size.
31. Cozy virtual coffee or cocoa chat
Keep things simple by mailing everyone a seasonal drink mix (cocoa, cider, or a specialty coffee) and scheduling a short, relaxed call. People enjoy sipping something festive while catching up on non-work topics. It’s low-pressure, warm, and perfect for teams that don’t want a big production.
32. Holiday background contest
Encourage employees to join the call with their best festive virtual background or DIY backdrop. Categories like “funniest,” “most creative,” or “coziest” add a playful twist. It leads to instant laughs and sets a fun tone from the moment the meeting starts.
33. Remote white elephant exchange
Use an online generator to assign swap partners and allow everyone to choose a gift within a set price limit. Items can be shipped directly to the recipient after the event, with a group unwrapping moment at the end. The surprise factor keeps the tradition alive, even from afar.
Related: Virtual Team Building Activities Your Team Will Actually Enjoy
Holiday Gifts Your Team Will Fa-La-La-Love
Finding a holiday gift that appeals to everyone on the team can feel like a challenge, but the best choices are thoughtful, useful, and easy to personalize. Employees appreciate gifts that fit their everyday lives, add a bit of comfort, or feel like a treat they wouldn’t necessarily buy for themselves. These ideas strike the right balance between budget-friendly options and higher-end picks that still feel thoughtful instead of generic.
- Gourmet snack boxes. A curated box filled with quality snacks (artisan popcorn, cookies, chocolates, or seasonal treats) always goes over well. People can enjoy them at home, share with family, or keep at their desk for an afternoon pick-me-up. It’s a simple, universally appreciated option that feels festive without being flashy.
- High-quality cozy blankets. A soft throw blanket is practical, comforting, and perfect for the winter months. Choose neutral patterns or solid colors so they complement any home style. Employees love gifts they can use daily, and a cozy blanket checks that box.
- Digital gift cards to popular retailers. A digital gift card gives employees the freedom to pick something they truly want. Choose retailers with wide appeal; Amazon, Target, or Starbucks tend to be the most popular. It requires minimal setup on your end and is always well-received.
- Desk-friendly wellness gifts. Think calming candles, essential oil diffusers, mini desk plants, or stress-relief kits. These small touches help make the workday feel a little more enjoyable. Wellness items work for both in-office and remote teams.
- Premium water bottles or coffee tumblers. A sleek, insulated bottle or tumbler is something most people use daily, whether at home or at the office. Choose a neutral, timeless color that suits everyone’s style. It’s a functional gift that feels upgraded without going over budget.
- Experience-based gifts. Give employees something fun to look forward to with digital experiences like cooking classes, wine tastings, escape rooms, or creative workshops. Experiences feel more personal than physical items and work well for teams in various locations. This option adds novelty and encourages people to try something new.
- “Holiday at home” comfort kits. Put together small kits with hot cocoa, a seasonal candle, fuzzy socks, or a holiday snack. It’s cozy, simple, and brings a little extra warmth to someone’s home during the season. These kits feel personal without requiring a large budget.
Final Thoughts
Planning a memorable work Christmas party doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. A few thoughtful ideas, whether it’s a creative activity, a fun theme, or a small gesture that brings people together, can turn a simple gathering into something your team genuinely enjoys. What matters most is choosing moments that make employees feel appreciated, connected, and excited to celebrate the season together.
If your holiday planning has you thinking about how to strengthen your team in the new year, our recruiting experts are here to help. Explore our staffing solutions and contact us today to learn how we can support your hiring goals in 2025 and beyond.
