The holiday season can feel overwhelming—year-end deadlines, social commitments, and the rush to buy gifts often leave little room for anything else.
Organising some festive fun at work might seem like a low priority, but a little effort can go a long way in brightening the mood for everyone. Here are some simple ideas that won’t take much time to arrange but will add a festive spark to your office in the final days of 2024.
1. Op Shop Secret Santa
Secret Santa is a classic holiday activity, but why not give it a creative twist by making all gifts second-hand? Require participants to purchase their gifts from an op shop (thrift store). Not only is this budget-friendly, but it also supports charitable causes, and if the recipient doesn’t love their gift, they can donate it back guilt-free!
Tips for a successful Op Shop Secret Santa:
Set a budget: A $10 limit works perfectly for op shop finds, keeping it fun without breaking the bank.
Use a Secret Santa app: Apps like DrawNames or Elfster can randomly assign names, saving you time and hassle.
Add a playful twist: Include a rule like “The gift must be an accessory the recipient can wear on the last workday of the year.”
2. Office Christmas Lunch
Sometimes, simple is best. Few things bring people together like sharing a meal. An office Christmas lunch doesn’t have to be complicated—just ask everyone to bring a dish to share.
Things to keep in mind:
Plan the menu: Set up a shared list (like a whiteboard or Google Doc) where everyone can note what they’ll bring. This avoids duplication—no one needs five plates of sausage rolls!
Cater to dietary needs: Ensure there are options for everyone by accommodating dietary restrictions and labeling dishes with common allergens, like nuts.
Don't forget the bon bons: They're great fun and nothing screams holidays like everyone wearing a paper hat! There are some great budget options out there too, so you don't have to spend too much. Try Target or Kmart for starters...
3. Coffee Time Trivia with Prizes
Transform your regular coffee break into a team-building trivia session. Set up an online quiz in the boardroom, grab some snacks, and spend 15 minutes having fun together.
How to make it work:
Use a trivia platform like The New Daily’s Quiz to set up the game.
Add a fun incentive: For example, if the team scores over 80%, the boss buys lunch the next day! (NB: check with boss first😜)
Make Time for Joy This Season
No matter which idea you choose, the goal is to create moments of connection and joy during the busy end-of-year period. With a little creativity and teamwork, you can turn the office into a festive and fun space everyone will appreciate.
Happy holidays!