We often spend more time with our co-workers than with our family (or at least it feels that way at times). So an office holiday celebration is a fun way to share the holiday spirit with our “Second Family”.
Some ideas for the Office party can include the following:
A personalized card for everyone. Maybe a candid photo of the group transformed into a special holiday memento for each person.
A grab bag. Keep to inexpensive gifts (set a $ limit) or gifts that have to be handmade. Or choose a theme for the gifts.
Make it a “pot luck” luncheon. Everyone has their holiday favorites that are family “secrets” or a special ethnic food. Imagine a party with fresh guacamole dip with tortilla chips, Greek spanokipita pie, baked manicotti and for desserts; Scottish shortbread and payasam (an Indian version of rice pudding). There could be so many new and delicious items to try!
And after the food, how about a Karaoke contest? We found at one office party that if people were anxious about venturing this alone, if they teamed up with one or two others, they were an instant “rock group”.
Whatever works for your team of friends in the office; just the time spent together sharing in a relaxed social event helps “ring the holidays in” for all.
Secret Santa is always great with a $ amount set. Or from our bosses one year – they had bags all set up same size and they had gift cards in them from $100 to $300.00 – and after our luncheon we all went and picked a bag from the company for our surprise.
I really enjoy participating in grab bags, it makes me feel like I’m a kid again. I think everyone deep down misses waking up on Christmas morning and opening presents from Santa. This gives an opportunity to feel that way again. I think a holiday themed karaoke session is awesome too, with group songs it will let everyone have fun and feel the embarrassment as a team!
My office used to do a secret santa, but there are just too many people now. We do a nice breakfast just before Christmas instead which works out great.
I like the concept but it tends never to work out well.
Love the grab bag idea
Personalize everything is my motto. I like the card idea
My job has someone dressed as Santa come in, and employees can bring their children to work to enjoy the festivities! It’s always a fun time!
I agree, I spend more time with my co workers than my family. I think I may try some of these suggestions.
Annie is so right. I see my coworkers more than anyone else! Good tips.
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