Corporate Holiday Event Ideas and Planning Tips
The holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and connection, making it the perfect opportunity for companies to show appreciation for their employees’ hard work throughout the year. Planning a memorable corporate holiday party can be a delightful experience but a big responsibility. To help you navigate through the planning process, here’s a comprehensive checklist.
10 Corporate Holiday Party Event Ideas
Each of these ideas offers a unique way to celebrate the holiday season, ensuring your corporate event is memorable, inclusive and enjoyable for all employees.
1. Casino Night
Transform your venue into a casino with game tables, slot machines, and professional dealers. Employees receive a set amount of play money to enjoy the games without any real gambling involved, creating a fun and engaging atmosphere.
2. Charity Event
Organize a charity auction or a fundraising dinner where proceeds go to a chosen charity. This will make the event meaningful while reflecting well on your company’s values. Who doesn’t love the chance to combine celebration with social responsibility?
3. Interactive Cooking Class
Host a cooking class where employees can learn to make holiday dishes or desserts. Cooking together is a great team-building activity. Plus, it’s a fun way to engage everyone by teaching them how to create delicious treats they can make for loved ones.
4. Murder Mystery Dinner
A murder mystery dinner is an interactive event that involves everyone. Employees play different characters in a story; together, they must figure out who the “murderer” is, offering a night of intrigue and teamwork.
5. Holiday Craft Workshop
Set up a workshop where employees can make holiday crafts, such as ornaments or gingerbread houses. This is a relaxing and creative way to spend time together, fostering creativity and relaxation.
6. Outdoor Adventure
If your team is adventurous, consider an outdoor activity like ice skating, a snowshoeing expedition, or a group hike. Follow the activity with a cozy gathering around a fire with hot cocoa and snacks. This is a perfect way to break out of the office and channel your adventurous spirits.
7. Talent Show
Host a talent show where employees can showcase their non-work-related talents. This is a fun way to learn more about each other and enjoy some entertainment. Your team will surely enjoy celebrating each other’s talents alongside the holiday!
8. Virtual Holiday Party
For remote teams, a virtual holiday party can be just as fun. Organize online games, a virtual Secret Santa or holiday-themed trivia. Send out party kits in advance with snacks and goodies to bring the festive spirit to everyone’s home.
9. Cultural Celebration
Celebrate the diverse cultures within your company by having a party where employees can share their holiday traditions, foods, and stories, fostering inclusivity and cultural appreciation.
10. Festive Movie Night
Host a movie night with holiday classics. Set up a cozy space with comfortable seating, popcorn, and hot chocolate for a relaxed and enjoyable evening, perfect for unwinding and getting into the holiday spirit.
Step-by-Step Corporate Holiday Party Planning Checklist
Once you’ve finished brainstorming, it’s time to move into the logistics phase. Here’s your step-by-step holiday party planning guide to ensure nothing falls through the cracks while planning.
Step 1: Set Your Objectives and Budget
Before diving into the details, define what you want to achieve with your holiday party. Is it purely social, or do you have specific business goals? Next, establish a budget. This will guide your decisions on the venue, food, entertainment, etc.
Step 2: Choose the Date and Time
Select a date and time that works best for most employees. Consider holding the event on a weekday to ensure higher attendance. Send out a ‘Save the Date’ as early as possible.
Step 3: Select the Perfect Venue
The venue sets the tone for your event. Look for spaces that align with the size of your group and the theme of your party. Consider accessibility, parking and accommodation options for attendees.
Step 4: Plan the Menu
Whether you opt for a formal dinner, a buffet or cocktail-style catering, ensure the menu caters to various dietary preferences. Don’t forget to include festive drinks and desserts!
Step 5: Organize Entertainment
Entertainment is key to a successful party. This could range from a DJ or live band to interactive activities like photo booths or holiday-themed games.
Step 6: Decorations and Theme
Decide on a theme and coordinate decorations to enhance the festive atmosphere. Themes can range from classic winter wonderland to more creative concepts like a masquerade ball.
Step 7: Send Invitations
Create and send out invitations that reflect the party’s theme. Include all necessary details and consider using digital platforms for RSVPs for ease of management.
Step 8: Arrange Transportation
If the venue is out of town or if alcohol will be served, consider arranging transportation for your employees. This ensures everyone’s safety and enjoyment.
Step 9: Plan for Gifts or Awards
A holiday party is a great time to recognize employees’ efforts. Plan for any gift-giving or awards ceremony to make the event more special.
Host Your Holiday Event at The Hotel at Arundel Preserve
One way to ensure your office holiday party is a hit is to hold it in one of the Hotel at Arundel Preserves many event spaces. We’ll take the bulk of your party-planning stress off your shoulders. Take advantage of our full-service catering, custom services and hybrid meeting packages.
We’d be honored to be your company’s host. Contact us today to learn more about our event spaces and services!
