Do the words “company holiday party” conjure up images of cheesy decorations, cringy party games, and secret Santa gifts nobody wants? Don’t worry, this is not your boss’s holiday party. Try these 11 concepts that are actually cool instead.
1. Fun and Inclusive Themes
Many companies, especially in NYC, have employees from different countries, cultures, and religious backgrounds, so it’s important to host inclusive parties that everyone can enjoy. Try one of these themes or create your own.
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- Winter Wonderland
- Masquerade Ball
- Tropical Escape
2. Multicultural Celebration
A wonderful way to ensure everyone on the team feels included and valued is to have a multicultural celebration. Invite team members to share their holiday traditions and bring a dish to share with the group. Everyone learns about each other’s cultures while sampling foods from around the world.
Pro Tip: Invite employees to share ideas for decorations that reflect their holiday traditions, or opt for an “around the world” theme.
3. Activity-Centric Party
One of the best ways to throw a holiday party employees will actually enjoy is by having the entire party centered around an activity. It’s a great way to bond as a team without the pressure that comes along with many holiday parties.
Try:
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- Ballet
- Ice skating
- Theater
4. Volunteering as a Team
Nothing starts the holiday season off on a better note than spending time helping others. That’s why volunteering as a team makes our list of concepts that are actually cool. Your team makes a difference, employees feel good about themselves, and your brand gets an image boost, too.
Try:
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- Holding a toy drive or distributing toys for children in need.
- Preparing and serving meals at a soup kitchen
- Creating care packages for families who have a member facing a serious medical condition.
5. Immersive Activities
Everyone loves immersive activities, so incorporate them into your holiday party. Remember, this is not your boss’s holiday party, so out-of-the-box thinking is encouraged!
Try:
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- Escape Room
- Murder Mystery
- Paint and sip
6. Incredible Entertainment
The right entertainment turns your holiday party into the can’t-miss event of the year. Book early if the entertainers you want are in high-demand.
Think:
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- Comedians
- Street performers
- Musicians
- Aerial performers
7. A New Way of Exchanging Gifts
White elephant and secret Santa exchanges have been done to death. Why not mix it up this year with a new way of exchanging gifts?
Try:
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- Bringing stocking stuffers to fill a stocking for each attendee
- A decorated cookie exchange
- Musical gifts (pass a gift around the circle until the music stops. The person holding it keeps the gift and leaves the circle. This continues until everyone has a gift.)
8. Fun Competitions
Everyone loves a little friendly competition, so add some to your holiday party. It’s even better if winners get valuable prizes, like tech, PTO, or gift cards.
Try:
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- Gingerbread house making contest
- Trivia
- Scavenger hunt
9. Learn a New Skill
Nothing keeps guests engaged like learning a new skill that’s actually cool. Your guests will love participating, and they can show off their new skill to family and friends after the party, too.
Try:
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- Mixology class
- Gourmet cooking lesson
- Cake decorating
10. Employee Awards
A company holiday party is a great time to host an award ceremony. Make it a black tie gala, book an upscale caterer, and hold a ceremony that conveys how much the company appreciates its staff.
Pro tip: involve the team by having them vote on serious or funny awards for management and employees alike.
11. Holiday Cruise
Ditch the traditional settings, and turn your company party into a holiday cruise this year. Treat staff to views of the city skyline, delicious catering, phenomenal musicians, and an experience they won’t soon forget!
This year, hire the pros at EMRG Media to make sure your holiday party is anything but ordinary. From the most exclusive venues to the latest trends in entertainment, we know exactly how to make your holiday party the best one yet!
