Christmas planning starts now: fresh alternatives to the ‘usual’ work Christmas party
Christmas party planning can be a bit of a nervy venture. Alcohol-fuelled mishaps, questionable social media posts and post-party absenteeism can send HR teams into a spin.
The traditional office Christmas party can, of course, be fun but Christmas work celebrations don’t have to revolve around a late-night bar tab. There are plenty of creative alternatives that still bring the festive spirit while simultaneously helping teams connect in a more relaxed and inclusive way.
Here are some constructive and inspiring work Christmas party ideas that will bring your team together and won’t lead to an emergency HR meeting on Monday morning.
The gift of CSR
Christmas is the season of giving. Therefore, it’s the perfect time to organise a team activity that’s meaningful.
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activities provide teams with a shared sense of purpose that can have powerful effects. Studies consistently show that employees feel more engaged and motivated when they believe their work and organisation is making a positive difference.
And beyond the workplace, 77% of consumers are more likely to buy from companies committed to making the world a better place (research from Harvard Business School).
Toy For Life is a hands-on team building activity that brings people together to build classic wooden toys for children in need, combining problem solving, collaboration and creativity with a meaningful purpose. Teams work with pre-formed pieces to create toys that are quality checked and then donated in your company’s name to schools and hospitals across Uganda, Cambodia and India. The result is a rewarding shared experience that not only strengthens teamwork but also leaves a lasting, tangible impact for children facing adversity.
(Take a look at our other Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activities that connect people to communities at home and overseas - and connect team mates in the process.)
Festive bake-offs
Or you can choose to ramp up the competitive baking element. For those who fancy themselves one of Mary Berry’s proteges, our Christmas team bake-offs will spark oodles of excitement and frenetic energy. While we can’t promise the lady herself, we can promise friendly competition, expert baking tips, a series of fun baking challenges and demonstrations from a head chef.
If Yule logs and gingerbread houses jangle your jingle bells, then a festive team bake-off could be the perfect recipe for your work Christmas celebration. (And if Christmas is already booked, don’t worry - we run other seasonal bake-offs throughout the year.)
Archery
If your spirit animal is more Katniss Everdeen than Mary Berry, an archery session might be on target.
It’s a surprisingly mindful and rewarding activity - not to mention older than the nativity itself. Under the guidance of qualified GNAS Archery Leaders, your team can learn the basics and then compete in friendly challenges.
Archery makes for an engaging way to try something new at the end of the working year and enjoy a sense of non-work-related achievement - all while cheering on your colleagues.
Traditional festive crafts
Sometimes the simplest activities can be the most enjoyable.
Creative festive workshops such as wreath- or candle-making offer a relaxing way to end a busy year. No artistic experience required, just a willingness to get hands-on and enjoy the process.
Guided by expert tutors, participants create their own festive decorations in a calm, welcoming environment. There’s no pressure, no competition, it’s simply a chance to switch off from work and create.
Interestingly, the people who are most convinced they “aren’t creative” are often the ones who leave feeling the proudest - taking home a beautiful Christmas decoration and a renewed sense of what they’re capable of.
(We also offer wreath or candle-making as an add-on creative activity as part of a larger event.)
A treasure hunt is not just for Easter
Answer questions, find clues and objects and complete cryptic challenges - all while competing against your teammates and racing against the clock.
Scavenger hunts get everyone out of the office and into fresh air. Our scavenger challenges take place in beautiful locations such as Windsor & Eton, Henley-on-Thames, Marlow and Goring & Streatley so participants get the added bonus of exploring and enjoying their surroundings while completing their missions.
Ok this is all great, but we’re still going to have a Christmas party.
In which case, how about adding a real sense of occasion with a theme? Budget doesn’t allow for a trip to Vegas? Bring Vegas to the team!
A casino night brings the glamour and excitement of Las Vegas or Monte Carlo to your venue without anyone risking their real money.
Guests can try their hand at classic games such as blackjack, roulette and poker, on full-sized tables and authentic equipment guided by professional croupiers who keep the atmosphere lively and welcoming.
Learn more about our festive activities
So, what are you waiting for? Get ahead of the game this year and get in touch with us to start planning the perfect celebration!
To talk to us about any of the above activities, or if you’d like help creating a structured, year-round wellbeing or team building plan, speak to us today on 07767 250192 email us on events@tag-events.com