As you plan year-end work gatherings, these tips for holiday parties can keep celebrations positive and welcoming.
This time of year naturally encourages us to pause and appreciate the people who support our work and enrich our lives. Eileen recently shared a reminder of how traditions connect us, including one of her own family’s most unforgettable memories: her grandmother’s habit of keeping live fish in the bathtub until the big day arrived. (If you missed her reflection on family traditions, you can read it here.
While holiday customs have evolved, the meaning of the season has stayed the same: connection, joy, and gratitude. The HR Team extends heartfelt thanks to every client, partner, and colleague who placed their trust in us this year. We believe the greatest gift is the time we spend together and the community we build. And as workplace teams continue to reconnect after years of distancing and virtual events, holiday celebrations feel more meaningful than ever.
It’s also the perfect time to refresh your strategy for hosting (or attending) holiday parties that stay festive and professional. Below are practical, people-centered do’s and don’ts for holiday parties to help your organization create a memorable event that’s positive, inclusive, and stress-free.
8 Holiday Party Do’s: Keep It Festive, Safe, and Fun
- Set expectations early.
A friendly message about conduct, respect, and boundaries helps set the tone for a positive holiday event. HR experts note that sending a short “respect memo” before the big day can reduce confusion and prevent inappropriate behavior at workplace gatherings (Source: SHRM – “How to Survive Your Office Holiday Party”).
- Keep track of RSVPs.
Knowing the headcount helps with seating, catering, and activities, whether you’re hosting Secret Santa, offering signature cocktails, or serving treats your guests will love. Tracking RSVPs also ensures enough food and drinks for everyone.
- Consider the timing.
Holding the party right after work helps reduce pre-event drinking and keeps the evening predictable. HR experts recommend a reasonable timeframe to maintain holiday spirit without letting things drift into late-night territory.
- Provide transportation options.
If alcohol is included, rideshares, shuttles, or encouraging designated drivers helps your team enjoy the evening safely. Holiday party planning should always prioritize getting everyone home without risk.
- Offer an inclusive menu.
‘Tis the season for indulgence, but it’s important to consider dietary restrictions, allergies, and preferences. A thoughtful menu helps all attendees feel welcome and included.
- Choose a theme.
Themes bring a sense of fun and help guide decisions about decorations, activities, and attire. Whether it’s winter sparkle, plaid and flannel, or retro holiday cheer, themes make events more cohesive and memorable.
- Make sure leaders model appropriate behavior.
Employees often take their cues from leadership. When managers demonstrate professionalism and enjoy the festivities without overindulging, it sets a clear tone and helps prevent problems before they start. A strong example goes a long way in keeping the event positive and respectful.
- Incorporate structured activities.
A group photo, trivia round, raffle, or small team-building moment breaks up unstructured time and keeps the event engaging. Well-planned activities can also help reduce unnecessary trips to the bar.
Holiday Party Don’ts: Avoid these 8 Common Pitfalls
- Don’t make attendance mandatory.
Holiday parties should feel enjoyable—not required. Encourage participation but respect personal commitments and preferences.
- Don’t overserve alcohol.
Provide drink tickets, avoid shots, and close the bar well before the event ends. Signature cocktails and mocktails can make the celebration festive without encouraging excess.
- Don’t show up sick.
Even though distancing requirements have changed, encouraging wellness and health-conscious choices remains important, especially during the holiday season.
- Don’t steer into sensitive topics.
Politics, personal issues, and other potentially divisive subjects can quickly derail the holiday spirit. Keep conversations light and supportive.
- Don’t cross personal boundaries.
Skip the hugs with colleagues who aren’t typically huggers, the mistletoe moments, and any overly bold dance moves. Keeping interactions respectful ensures everyone feels comfortable and included.
- Don’t post photos or videos without permission.
Some people prefer to keep their personal lives and party outfits private. Always ask before sharing anything online.
- Don’t pressure employees to spend money or bring gifts.
Participation in Secret Santa or gift exchanges should always be optional and affordable.
- Don’t forget remote or hybrid employees.
If your team works across different locations, find simple ways to include everyone. A virtual toast, mailed treats, or a shared activity can help remote employees feel involved and cared for.
Holiday parties offer a meaningful opportunity to build connections and enjoy time together. With thoughtful planning and clear communication, organizations can create celebrations that reflect their culture while ensuring everyone feels safe, respected, and appreciated.
At The HR Team, we believe people remember how a workplace makes them feel, especially during meaningful moments like holiday gatherings. A well-planned event leaves employees feeling valued, and that’s the real heart of the season.
If your organization could use personalized guidance or additional tips for holiday parties, or you’re seeking strategic planning for a successful year ahead, The HR Team is ready to help. Contact us today to start the new year with confidence.
About The HR Team, a Ravix Group company: Founded in 1996, The HR Team is a Maryland-based human resources outsourcing firm committed to developing strategic, customized solutions that respond to the unique needs and cultures of organizations of all types and sizes. Available as a one-source alternative to an in-house HR department or on an à la carte project basis, the company’s flexible service models address the full spectrum of HR needs that many organizations struggle to address. The HR Team helps clients achieve their highest level of success by providing value-driven human resources services that leave them time to focus on what they do best: directing business growth and profitability. Headquartered in Columbia, Maryland, the firm serves all of Maryland, Washington, DC, and Virginia. To learn more about The HR Team, call 410.381.9700 or visit https://www.thehrteam.com/.
