Corporate Holiday Party ideas

Holding a company holiday party is a fun way to boost morale and show appreciation for your employees. It gives them a chance to mingle and bond outside the office setting. If you are looking to try something new at your next corporate holiday party, consider some of these ideas.

Create a theme for your company party.

Choosing a great theme can set the mood for the whole night. Pick something unique and different from previous years. Ideas to consider: Winter Wonderland, Christmas Around the World, or theme it after a classic movie like A Christmas Story.

Play fun Games.

Include some light hearted games at the party, such as Name That Tune using Christmas songs or Holiday Movie Trivia. These can be played in groups as a great team building activity.

Give out door prizes.

Randomly raffle off some bigger prize like a television, gift certificates, or a Keurig. You can also give them out by citing silly requirements, like “person with the most pennies” or “The first person to bring me a pen.” Be creative. The whole reason you are having a company holiday party is for fun, right?

Rent a photo booth.

This is a great way for employees to remember this fun day. Choose a holiday themed booth with fun props to get everyone in the spirit! (AUFC Suggestion: If renting a photo booth is too expensive for your budget, consider creating one using a backdrop, camera and projector with screen. Ask you IT department for help!)

Hire exciting entertainment.

Most events will hire a band or dj, but the way to stand out is by booking great corporate entertainment. Choose an act like “Speed Painter Tim Decker, ” who will amaze as he whips up oversized portraits of icons in mere minutes. Finished pieces can even be included in the raffle.

Incorporate a charitable cause.

Holiday parties are a perfect time to give back since people are in a giving mood. Consider holding a toy drive, collecting canned goods, or adopting a family for the holiday season. This is a great reminder of what’s really important this time of year.

Hold a contest.

Organize a competition for things like the ugliest sweater or the most festive outfit. Have employees cast their vote and award prizes to the winners.

Coordinate a cookie swap.

Those that are interested in participating should bake up a big batch of cookies to trade with others at the event.

Organize a gift exchange.

There are endless ways to exchange gifts at a party. Some classic examples are Secret Santa and White Elephant. Be sure to set a price range so people do not over or under spend, which can ruin the fun of the game.

Be sure to give everyone a gift from the company.

Think outside the box and avoid giving a cheesy gift with the company logo on it. Fun options may include an ornament, external battery charger, or smartphone dock. Gift cards, cash and time off are also always much appreciated.