15 Office Holiday Party Ideas to Boost Team Morale and Festive Spirit

Office holiday parties really bring coworkers together. I’ve seen how a well-planned event can lift team spirit and spark memories that last.

If you want to throw a holiday party everyone will actually enjoy, you’ll need ideas that fit your team’s style and budget. Striking the right balance between fun and professionalism is key—otherwise, it just feels forced.

1) Themed Costume Party (e.g., 80s Retro, Winter Wonderland)

Starting with a themed costume party gets everyone engaged from the jump. Go with something like 80s Retro—think neon, big hair, and wild outfits.

A Winter Wonderland theme also works if you want a calmer, sparkly vibe. People can show up in cozy sweaters or something a little more glitzy.

Both themes make the party feel like an actual event, not just another day at work. Plus, picking a theme helps you plan food, music, and activities without overthinking it.

2) Holiday Trivia Game with Prizes

Holiday trivia is always a hit. I usually come up with questions about traditions, movies, or music—stuff everyone can take a shot at.

Handing out fun prizes gets people a little more competitive. You don’t have to spend much; even silly prizes work.

You can play in person or online, so it’s flexible for remote teams too. For more prize ideas, try best Christmas game prizes.

3) Cookie Decorating Station

A cookie decorating station brings out everyone’s creative side. Just set out plain cookies, colorful icing, and toppings like sprinkles and candies.

With all the supplies ready, anyone can jump in and decorate. It’s a relaxed way for people to chat and unwind.

Toss in some boxes or bags so folks can take their creations home. For setup tips, here’s a cookie decorating station guide.

4) Virtual Escape Room Challenge

Virtual escape rooms are surprisingly good for team building. Everyone works together to solve puzzles in a holiday-themed digital world.

It keeps things interactive, even if your team’s remote. You don’t need a bunch of supplies—just a good platform and a group willing to play.

Try these ideas if you want to set one up.

5) Secret Santa Gift Exchange

Secret Santa keeps gift-giving simple and fun. Everyone draws a name and buys a present for that person—no one knows who’s buying for whom.

Setting a budget keeps things fair. Adding a theme or quirky rule can make it more interesting.

If you want to spice it up, check out 30+ Creative and Fun Secret Santa Workplace Ideas.

6) Karaoke Holiday Hits Contest

Karaoke always livens up an office party. Set up a machine or just use an app—holiday classics and throwback hits are both fair game.

I like throwing in prizes for best performance or most enthusiasm. It’s not about talent, just about having a good laugh.

7) DIY Hot Chocolate Bar

A DIY hot chocolate bar feels cozy and festive. Let people top their drinks with marshmallows, cinnamon, or chocolate chips.

You don’t need anything fancy—just a few cocoa mixes, whipped cream, and maybe some peppermint sticks. Throw in a few cute mugs and a little sign, and you’re set.

It works for any size group and gives everyone a reason to linger. Here are some cozy hot cocoa bar ideas.

8) Ugly Sweater Contest

Ugly sweater contests never get old. Everyone shows up in their worst (or funniest) holiday sweater and tries to outdo each other.

Offer prizes for “ugliest” or “most creative.” It gets people talking and breaks the ice fast.

For tips on organizing, check 15 office holiday party ideas for a festive work celebration.

9) Office Decorating Competition

An office decorating competition brings out people’s creative sides. Teams can deck out their workspaces or desks—no need for fancy supplies.

Set a time limit and maybe pick a theme like “Winter Wonderland” or “Santa’s Workshop.” Judging can be by vote or a small panel.

10) Cocktail-Making Class

A cocktail-making class adds something different to the usual party routine. You can keep it casual with a couple signature drinks or go hands-on and let everyone try mixing.

Maybe throw in a light competition, but nothing too serious. It’s a good fit for teams who want to try something new.

11) Charity Gift Wrapping Event

A charity gift wrapping event is simple to organize and makes a real difference. Collect donated gifts and wrap them together in a festive spot.

Turn on some holiday music, put out snacks, and you’ve got a warm, giving atmosphere. It’s a team activity with a feel-good twist.

You don’t need extra money—just some time and effort. For planning help, check this gift-wrapping fundraiser guide.

12) Photo Booth with Festive Props

Photo booths are a blast at holiday parties. Stock up on festive props like Santa hats, goofy glasses, or reindeer antlers.

People love snapping silly pics together. It’s a great way to loosen up the vibe.

A themed backdrop makes the photos pop. If you have the budget, print a few as keepsakes.

13) Holiday Movie Screening

A holiday movie screening makes the party feel low-key and cozy. Pick a classic or a goofy comedy—whatever fits your group.

Set up a projector or just use a big screen in the break room. Popcorn and snacks are a must.

It’s easy, affordable, and gives people a reason to hang out without forced mingling. For more like this, see 15 office holiday party ideas.

14) Potluck Style Dinner with International Holiday Foods

A potluck dinner with dishes from different countries is always interesting. Everyone brings something from their own background or a place they love.

It’s a great way to share cultural traditions and try new flavors. Plus, it’s less work for whoever’s organizing.

You can even theme the dinner around global holiday foods. It sparks conversation and makes the party feel special. If you need ideas, international potluck dish lists are everywhere online.

15) Team-Building Scavenger Hunt

I love throwing a scavenger hunt into office holiday parties—it gets people moving and talking, which is honestly half the battle. You can toss in holiday-themed clues and hide them around the office.

That way, folks end up working together and breaking out of their usual routines. It’s a sneaky way to push teamwork without making it feel forced.

If you split everyone into smaller teams, things get a lot more lively and, let’s be real, a bit more competitive. Setting a timer keeps the vibe upbeat and stops things from dragging.

A scavenger hunt might sound basic, but it really does help people connect and make some good memories. If you want more ideas, teamout.com has some handy tips.