The holiday season is upon us, bringing with it the perfect opportunity to plan another company holiday party.

So, we’re diving deep to help HR managers, and team leaders with their event planning to ensure their office party is a smashing success. 

We’ve got you covered with:

• Company holiday party ideas that get everyone in the holiday mood
• Fun game ideas and team-building activities
• Thoughtful gift ideas to appreciate hard work
• Tips for planning a memorable bash without breaking the bank

Ready to get the party planning started? Dig in! 

Table of Contents

Company Holiday Party Themes

Corporate Holiday Party Games

Office Holiday Party Gift Ideas

Tips for Minimizing Expenses When Planning a Corporate Holiday Party

Company Holiday Party Best Practices

Company Holiday Party Themes

Selecting the perfect theme is the first step in planning your work party, as it sets the tone for the entire holiday event.

It can transform a normal gathering into a fascinating experience, and spark excitement among your colleagues. 

Here are some themes to explore:

Winter wonderland gala

Choosing this theme for your company holiday party adds a magical touch that enchants team members with sparkle and shine.

Dress code: Glittering gowns, sharp suits, and winter’s faux fur.

What you’ll need for this theme: 

• Decor: Include hanging snowflakes, icicles, and twinkling lights.
• Food and drinks: Exquisite appetizers, entrees, winter-themed drinks, and hot cocoa for warmth.
• Music: Classic holiday tunes with sophisticated background music.
• Photo booth: A winter-themed booth with snowy props.

Why your colleagues will love it: This theme promises a night of elegance and festivity — one that fosters strong team bonds and leaves lasting memories. 

Masquerade ball

Embrace the allure of mystery and elegance by opting for a Masquerade Ball theme for your company holiday party. 

Dress code: Formal attire complemented with fancy masks.

What you’ll need for this theme: 

• Decor: Use dark colors, velvet drapes, sparkling chandeliers, and masks adorning the walls.
• Entertainment: A dance floor, complete with live classical music or a DJ mixing modern and timeless tunes.
• Add some mysterious touches: Like hidden messages in invitations or surprise performance acts.

Why your colleagues will love it: This theme promises a night of connection, mystery, and unforgettable memories for everyone.

Ugly sweater extravaganza

This fun, light-hearted theme takes the holiday spirit to the next level by encouraging everyone to show off their most outrageous holiday sweaters.

Dress code: The ugliest holiday sweaters you can find, own, or DIY.

What you’ll need for this theme: 

• Decor: Festive decorations, twinkling lights, and holiday-themed props.
• Contest stage: A small stage or designated area for the ugly sweater contest, where participants strut their stuff.
• Gifts: Exciting holiday presents for the ugliest sweater to encourage participation.
• Photo booth: Create a photo booth with holiday props and a backdrop that highlights the theme.

Why your colleagues will love it: This theme offers a fantastic opportunity for employees to let loose, show off their creative side, laugh, and bond. 

Hollywood red carpet affair

Transform your company holiday party into a dazzling sight with a touch of Hollywood.

Dress code: Glamorous gowns, sleek tuxedos, and all that glitters.

What you’ll need for this theme: 

• Decor: A stunning red carpet entrance is a must!
• Photo booth: Include a paparazzi backdrop for that authentic Hollywood feel, so everyone gets their moment in the spotlight.
• Award ceremony: Host an employee award ceremony to highlight achievements and make everyone feel like a star.
• Refreshments: Elegant drinks and snacks — ensure every detail exudes Hollywood charm.

Why your colleagues will love it: This theme provides a glamorous escape from the everyday, where everyone can enjoy a night of elegance and recognition. 

Around-the-world holiday celebration

Take everyone on a global adventure with an around-the-world holiday celebration at your company party. 

Dress code: Attire that represents different countries and cultures.

What you’ll need for this theme: 

• Decor: Set up stations to represent different countries and adorn them with traditional decorations.
• Music: A playlist featuring holiday music from around the world.
• Food: Diverse menu from featured countries or potluck.
• Interactive activities: Games or quizzes related to global holiday traditions.

Why your colleagues will love it: This theme creates an inclusive atmosphere where your team can learn about and celebrate different holiday traditions together. 

Santa’s workshop

Turn your company holiday party into a bustling hub of family-friendly joy with this Santa’s workshop theme. 

Dress code: Casual and festive; perhaps with holiday sweaters or elf hats.

What you’ll need for this theme: 

• Decor: Bright, cheerful decorations. Also, include a Christmas tree and sleigh for a playful atmosphere.
• Craft stations: Set up areas for DIY ornament-making and other holiday crafts.
• Games: Holiday-themed, family-friendly games to keep the fun flowing.

Why your colleagues will love it: This theme offers a fun, relaxed environment for employees and their families to celebrate the holiday spirit together. 

Retro holiday bash

Take your team members on a nostalgic trip back in time with this retro holiday bash theme. 

Dress code: Everything vintage; think ’80s neon and legwarmers or ’90s grunge and denim.

What you’ll need for this theme: 

• Decor: Decorations that scream retro, fitting the chosen decade. Feel free to take inspiration from movies like Home Alone or The Grinch.
• Music: Curate a playlist filled with hit songs from the chosen era.
• Games: Include the games popular during that time in your party.
• Photo booth: Set up a photo booth with props and backdrops that pay homage to the decade.
• Food: A retro-themed food truck with popular snacks or food from the chosen decade.

Why your colleagues will love it: It’s a fun, unique opportunity to enjoy a blast from the past in fashion and music, and share nostalgic moments with coworkers. 

Holiday karaoke

Let the good times roll and the high notes be hit with this holiday karaoke theme! 

Dress code: Casual and comfortable for those daring dance moves and high-energy performances.

What you’ll need for this theme: 

• Karaoke machine: A good quality karaoke machine with a diverse song library.
• Stage: Set up a stage area that’s accessible and visible to all attendees.
• Decor: Festive decorations to set the holiday mood.
• Performances: Create a supportive atmosphere that encourages individual and even team performances.

Why your colleagues will love it: It’s a fantastic way to showcase hidden talents and build bonds through laughter, cheering, and shared fun. 

Festive pajama party

Make your next company holiday party a cozy retreat with this festive pajama party theme! 

Dress code: Everyone’s favorite, coziest pajamas — the more festive, the better.

What you’ll need for this theme: 

• Cozy setup: Arrange comfortable seating with plenty of cushions and blankets.
• Hot chocolate bar: Set up a hot chocolate bar with various toppings for personalized drinks.
• Movie: Organize a screening of classic holiday movies to enjoy together.
• Snacks: Snacks perfect for movie moments.

Why your colleagues will love it: It’s a laid-back and heartwarming way to celebrate in the most comfortable attire possible!

Corporate Holiday Party Games

Engaging in fun and interactive games is a fantastic way to break the ice and boost team spirit at your corporate holiday party. They’re entertaining and also foster team spirit among colleagues. 

Here are some captivating game ideas:

Gift wrap relay 

Participants form teams to race against time while wrapping and decorating presents. Each team member takes turns to contribute to the wrapping process. 

How to play: 

• Equip each team with wrapping paper, tape, ribbons, and decorations. 
• Set a specific time for each person’s turn and start the timer.
• Once the timer buzzes, the gift should be fully wrapped and adorned. 
• Judges then assess the results — considering both the wrapping quality and the decoration creativity — to declare the winning team. 

Holiday Pictionary 

Get ready for laughter and friendly competition with this festive twist on the classic drawing and guessing game. 

Teams take turns to sketch holiday-themed words or phrases, while their teammates try to work out the artistic clues before time runs out. 

How to play: 

• Prepare a list of holiday-related words or phrases and divide players into teams. 
• One person from each team draws while the others guess, rotating artists each turn. 
• Set a timer for each round; the team with the most correct guesses when the game ends wins. 

Holiday movie trivia 

This is a perfect game for testing your team’s knowledge of classic festive films. 

In this game, teams compete to answer questions about famous quotes, iconic characters, and unforgettable movie scenes. 

How to play: 

• Divide your colleagues into teams and prepare a list of trivia questions based on popular holiday movies. 
• Ask each question to the teams in turns, awarding points for each correct answer. 
• The team with the most points at the end of the game is declared the ‘Holiday Movie Trivia Champion.’

Escape room challenge

For this game, participants are divided into teams to face a series of puzzles, clues, and tasks themed around the office or holiday celebrations.

How to play: 

• Create an escape room experience in a designated space, setting up various puzzles and challenges related to the holiday theme. 
• Teams will enter the room, and the clock starts ticking.
• They must work together to solve the puzzles, solve the clues, and complete the tasks required to “escape” within the allotted time. 
• The first team to successfully complete the challenge or the team that progresses the furthest when time runs out is declared the winner. 

Cookie decorating contest

Unleash the creativity of your colleagues as they transform plain cookies into edible masterpieces. 

This activity is perfect for stirring up some festive cheer and indulging in the sweet side of the holiday season. 

How to play: 

• Provide each participant or team with a set of plain cookies, a variety of colored icing, and an assortment of toppings. 
• Set a time limit. 
• Once the time is up, a panel of judges (or all participants) evaluate the cookies based on creativity, presentation, and holiday spirit. 
• The cookie with the highest score for its decorative flair and delicious appeal wins the contest. 

Pin the nose on Rudolph

This fun, lighthearted activity is sure to spark laughter and competitive spirit as blindfolded participants attempt to place Rudolph’s shiny red nose in its proper place. 

How to play:

• Hang up a large poster or drawing of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer on a wall, ensuring his nose is missing. 
• Provide a red sticker or cut-out, which will act as Rudolph’s nose, and attach double-sided tape to the back. 
• Blindfold the first participant, gently spin them around to confuse their sense of direction, and guide them towards Rudolph. 
• The player will then attempt to stick the red nose in the correct spot. 
• Once everyone has had a turn, the person who placed the nose closest to its correct position is declared the winner. 

White elephant gift exchange

This popular holiday game brings an element of unpredictability and laughter, as participants get to unwrap new gifts or “steal” from others. 

How to play:

• Each participant brings a wrapped, anonymous gift and places it in a central location. 
• Players draw numbers to determine the order of gift selection. The first player picks a gift and opens it. 
• The following players can choose to either open a new gift or “steal” an already opened one from someone else. 
• If a gift is stolen, the person who lost it gets to immediately pick a new gift (either from the pile or by stealing from someone else, but they cannot steal back the gift just taken from them). 
• The game continues until everyone has a gift. 

Santa limbo

This game allows participants to channel their inner Santa and showcase their flexibility under the candy cane limbo stick. 

It’s a hilarious and lively addition to your holiday party, guaranteeing laughter and fun. 

How to play: 

• Players take turns leaning backward and attempting to move under the candy cane without it falling. 
• Each round, lower the candy cane slightly to increase the challenge.
• Participants must wear a Santa hat while taking their turn, adding an extra element of holiday cheer and difficulty. 
• The player who successfully limbos under the lowest height without falling or touching the cane is declared the winner. 

Snowman building contest

This game is perfect for when the weather outside isn’t cooperating for a real snowman. 

Teams get together to craft their own unique snowmen using various materials, unleashing their creativity and holiday spirit. 

How to play: 

• Divide participants into teams and provide each group with an assortment of craft materials — cotton balls, construction paper, glue, markers, and any other festive accessories. 
• Set a time limit for the competition, challenging teams to build the most impressive and creative snowman they can come up with. 
• Once the time is up, have everyone vote on their favorite snowman (excluding their own team’s creation) or designate a panel of judges to pick the winner. 

The team with the most votes or judges’ approval takes the glory and perhaps a small prize.

Office Holiday Party Gift Ideas

When planning an office party, finding the perfect gift can truly add a special touch to the festivities. 

Whether you’re participating in a Secret Santa, White Elephant, or just spreading some holiday cheer, selecting a thoughtful and enjoyable gift matters.  

Here’s a list of versatile and delightful gift ideas:

1. Gift baskets

Gift baskets provide a versatile and personalized gift option for company holiday gifts. They can be tailored to suit individual preferences, adding a thoughtful touch to your present.

A mix of gourmet snacks, high-quality coffees, fine teas, and items related to personal hobbies can create a Christmas gift basket that’s also an experience.

Why it’s a great gift: Corporate gift baskets offer a little bit of everything. They can cater to all tastes — whether your colleagues are foodies, health-conscious folks, or tea aficionados, a well-curated gift basket can hit the right note.

Where to get: SwagDrop

2. Experience vouchers

Experience vouchers provide recipients with the opportunity to enjoy activities such as spa days, cooking classes, adventure excursions, or tickets to special events. 

This type of gift creates lasting memories and allows individuals to indulge in experiences they might not seek out themselves. 

Why it’s a great gift: Gifting an experience encourages recipients to take time for themselves or try something new, which is meaningful during the holiday season.

Where to get: Any gift experience provider.

3. Tech gadgets and accessories

Tech gadgets and accessories are a hit in the corporate world, as they offer both functionality and a touch of luxury. 

From wireless chargers and Bluetooth speakers to smart home devices and high-quality headphones, there’s a variety of options to cater to everyone’s tech preferences and needs.

Why it’s a great gift: Tech gifts are practical and enhance daily life — whether it’s for work, leisure, or convenience. They also show that the company is modern and forward-thinking.

Where to get: SwagDrop

4. Personalized company swag

Personalized company swag adds a unique touch to gifting that allows employees to feel a part of something bigger. 

Custom hoodies, cozy blankets, and notebooks can be personalized with an employee’s name or a special message, to foster a sense of belonging and appreciation.

Why it’s a great gift: A personalized employee gift demonstrates thoughtfulness and care as employees can use it in their daily lives, while it also reminds them of their valued place within the team.

Where to get: SwagDrop

5. Customized desk accessories

Customized desk accessories add a personal touch to an employee’s workspace, making them feel valued and appreciated. 

Think engraved pens, desk organizers, and unique stationery sets personalized to suit each employee’s style and preference.

Why it’s a great gift: Personalized desk accessories show thoughtfulness and attention to detail, improving the recipient’s connection to the company and boosting their morale.

Where to get: SwagDrop

6. Wellness and self-care packages

Encourage your team to unwind with wellness and self-care packages, filled with items aimed at promoting health and relaxation. 

These wellness packages can include essential oils, bath bombs, yoga mats for physical and mental balance, and aromatherapy diffusers to fill their space with calming scents.

Why it’s a great gift: In today’s fast-paced work environment, promoting employee well-being is crucial. These packages show your company cares about their health and stress levels, contributing positively to their work-life balance and overall job satisfaction.

Where to get: SwagDrop

7. Subscription boxes

Treat your team to a gift that keeps on giving with subscription boxes tailored to their unique tastes and interests.

There’s a subscription box for everyone — from gourmet food for the foodies, captivating books for the avid readers, and wellness products for those in need of relaxation, to hobby-related items.

Why it’s a great gift: Subscription boxes are a thoughtful way to show appreciation. Plus, they will offer a delightful surprise each month or quarter, keeping the holiday spirit alive long after the season ends.

Where to get: Any small business that offers subscription-based packages.

8. Outdoor adventure gear

Elevate your team’s outdoor experiences with high-quality outdoor adventure gear this holiday season.

From durable camping equipment and spacious backpacks to portable hammocks, there’s something for every nature enthusiast — ensuring they’re well-equipped for their next hiking or camping trip.

Why it’s a great gift: Outdoor adventure gear makes a thoughtful gift that supports your team’s adventurous spirit and well-being by promoting an active lifestyle.

Where to get: SwagDrop

9. DIY craft kits

Ignite the creative spark in your colleagues with DIY craft kits this holiday season.

These kits come complete with all the necessary materials and instructions for various hands-on projects like candle-making, painting, knitting, or model building. 

They also offer a fun and engaging way for your colleagues to learn a new skill or indulge in a favorite hobby.

Why it’s a great gift: DIY craft kits not only provide a creative outlet, but they also offer a sense of accomplishment once the project is completed. 

Where to get: SwagDrop

Tips for Minimizing Expenses When Planning a Corporate Holiday Party

When planning an in-person office holiday party, it’s possible to create a memorable corporate event without breaking the bank. 

Here are our top tips:

• Book a party venue and hire vendor services early, as last-minute bookings often come with a premium price tag (or don’t come at all if everywhere is booked). 
• Don’t shy away from negotiating deals with vendors — especially if you can offer something in return, such as promotion or future business. 
• Look out for budget-friendly corporate gifts that will still leave a lasting impression.
• Take advantage of the existing resources within your company: you might have talented employees who can double as entertainers or decorators, significantly cutting down costs. 
• Seek sponsorships or partnerships with local businesses in exchange for some promotional opportunities at your event. They might even be willing to provide goods or services at a reduced rate or even for free. 
• Be transparent with your budget when discussing plans with your team and vendors. This keeps everyone on the same page and helps you make the most of the available resources.

Now, let’s dive into some best practices to ensure your company holiday party is a smashing success.

Company Holiday Party Best Practices

Creating a memorable and enjoyable company holiday party calls for careful consideration and strategic planning. Here are some best practices to guide you through the process:

• Plan early: This gives you ample time to book your preferred venue, hire entertainers, and make other necessary arrangements. Last-minute planning can lead to rushed decisions and potentially higher costs.
• Communicate effectively: Use various channels such as email, intranet, or physical invitations to ensure everyone is informed and excited about the party.
• Invest in quality entertainment: Whether it’s a live band, DJ, or interactive games, choose entertainment that suits the theme and will keep your guests entertained.
• Cater to diverse preferences: Ensure there is a variety of food options, and consider different cultural or religious sensitivities when planning activities and entertainment.
• Create a safe environment: Make it clear that the company’s policies on harassment and discrimination are in effect during the party, and ensure there are options for safe transportation home.
• Balance tradition and innovation: Maintain a balance between traditional holiday elements and new, innovative ideas. This keeps the event familiar, yet exciting.

• Allow for feedback: After the event, gather feedback from attendees and evaluate what worked well and what could be improved. This information is invaluable for planning future events.

Where can you get more corporate holiday party inspiration?

Keep reading…

Need More Corporate Holiday Inspiration?

From well-planned office Christmas party ideas to thoughtful corporate gifts, we’ve covered a variety of suggestions to add a sparkle to your festivities. 

For an extra dose of inspiration, ideas, tips, tricks, and corporate holiday wisdom, we invite you to explore the SwagDrop blog. 

Remember, the spirit of the season lies in connection, appreciation, and joyous celebrations.

Let’s make it memorable together!