The annual tradition of a workplace Christmas or end of year party enables people up and down the country to blow off steam, be merry and celebrate the incoming festive season. For many employers, the Christmas party is a way to say thank you to employees for another year of hard work and dedication to the company. Christmas parties also help staff to bond outside the working environment.
Thanking staff for their continued commitment has never been more important than during these trying times: many employees have spent a vast proportion of the year working in solitude, keeping up productivity from box rooms and dining tables. In one survey by Mental Health Foundation, nearly a fifth of people said that they feel lonely, and there has been a notable decline in peoples’ ability to cope with the stress of a pandemic as time wears on.
But how can companies show their appreciation by throwing a Christmas party in 2020? Technology has been the saving grace for many companies this year – helping colleagues to stay connected and business to continue running remotely – and it is likely to take centre stage in many Christmas parties too.
Christmas Party Ideas for 2020
It’s clear that companies are going to have to be more creative this year. We’ve collated a few suggestions for your 2020 celebrations, so grab a mince pie and be inspired – Christmas jumper optional.
1. The quiz with a twist
Many people have admitted to being ‘zoomed out’ after taking part in so many quizzes over the first lockdown in particular. But with a bit of planning you can really elevate the standard quiz! Send party packs to employees in advance with a bottle of fizz and some festive treats to set a jubilant tone. Host a Christmas jumper competition with a generous prize. Continue the Secret Santa tradition by organising in advance and opening live. This is one of the most affordable options, it just requires a bit of out-of-the-box thinking to make it super special.
2. A socially distanced meal
It doesn’t necessarily have to be an online event, provided your location’s tier system allows such meetings. Many catering companies are innovating to thrive this party season. Longer tables, screens, outdoor events and other measures help to bolster safety and make people feel secure whilst enjoying a delicious feast. Socially distanced meals also help to support your local hospitality sector during this difficult year. Enquire with local catering companies and restaurants about a socially distanced meal for your Christmas party. This option works best for smaller companies whose staff are based locally.
3. Get creative with interactive workshops
Christmas parties don’t always have to be about dancing the night away, you could help your team to take away new skills in a group workshop of your choice. As we all continue to spend more time at home, trying something new together and learning new skills that we can continue to enjoy can be a great way to relax and have fun.
There are many companies who have transformed their services to be able to provide and host your Christmas Party workshop virtually. From virtual cocktail making classes, wreath making, and painting workshops to cooking classes, anything you can think of has now been virtualised.
Ingredients or materials are sent to employees so that you can all have a go at a new skill together, and then enjoy the fruits of your labour. It’s a great way to bond and is guaranteed to be a memorable event!
4. Murder Mystery evening
It’s a classic, and you may think that it is impossible to do virtually. However, specialist companies have put in the legwork to provide you with a thrilling evening of whodunit. And there’s a murder mystery to suit most budgets. For example, some companies are providing downloadable DIY kits to host your own event, whereas others are offering interactive experiences complete with live actors. With a range of themes to choose from, fancy dress could be optional but definitely encouraged.
5. Live entertainment – virtually!
If you normally take the team out for a show, you might be able to find your favourite events have been virtualised this year such as concerts, live performers and comedy acts.
As an example of more mainstream entertainment options available virtually this year, we came across ‘The Ultimate Virtual Christmas Party’ which is taking place on 18th December, hosted by comedian Russell Kane. The evening will include stand up comedy, an interactive ‘Big Fat Quiz of the Year meets the The Chase’, and magic from Britain’s Got Talent Winner, Lance Corporal Richard Jones. Your team can enjoy the entertainment together in a virtual ‘booth’.
Key considerations for organising a Christmas Party in 2020
Of course, organising and attending a workplace Christmas party might not be something employees are interested in this year, given the extra pressures involved due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. Your budget may also be more limited than previous years.
So, it may be preferable to simply wait until you are able to get together as normal, at a safer time down the line. If you do decide against a Christmas Party in 2020, explore other ways of acknowledging your employees’ contributions this year, for example a Christmas package through the post. Creativity is key!
However you choose to celebrate, make sure you take a chance to recognise your achievements over the past extremely challenging year. From all the team at Fitzgerald HR, we’d like to wish you a bright festive season, and a prosperous new year.
If you have any HR requirements you would like to discuss with our team now, or in the new year, please do get in touch.
