“12 Days of Christmas” Surprise Countdown
Celebrate over 12 days leading up to Christmas with small daily surprises for the team. Ideas include festive snacks, fun challenges, mini games, or small gifts like socks, candles, or personalized notes. Wrap it up with a grand finale party!
“Christmas Around the World” Potluck
Assign each team member or group a country to represent. They bring food, decorations, or music inspired by that culture’s Christmas traditions. It’s educational, festive, and delicious!
Holiday Karaoke Battle
Set up a karaoke machine (or use a karaoke app) and have the team perform their favorite holiday tunes. Turn it into a fun competition with categories like “Most Enthusiastic” or “Most Hilarious Performance.”
“Build a Gingerbread Dental Office” Contest
Instead of regular gingerbread houses, challenge the team to create gingerbread versions of your dental office! Use graham crackers, candy, and frosting for building materials, and award prizes for creativity.
Ornament Exchange with a Twist
Have everyone bring a handmade or upcycled ornament for a fun exchange. Add a storytelling element where participants explain the meaning or inspiration behind their creation.
Festive Escape Room Challenge
Create a DIY escape room in the office. Use dental-related clues (like solving a riddle about oral health) to “unlock” the holiday cheer. Divide the team into groups for a friendly race.
“Elf on the Shelf” Scavenger Hunt
Hide an elf (or other holiday figurine) around the office with clues or tasks each day leading up to the party. During the celebration, award prizes to those who found it the most times or completed challenges.
Holiday DIY Photo Booth
Set up a corner with inexpensive props like Santa hats, elf ears, and funny signs. Encourage team members to take silly pictures, which you can share in a digital holiday card or slideshow.
Winter Wellness Day
Focus on relaxation and self-care. Provide hot teas, soothing music, and affordable activities like chair massages or a mini yoga session. End with a festive snack table or dessert bar.
Office “Holiday Lights” Tour
Carpool to a local holiday lights display or set up a walking tour if the weather allows. Pack thermoses of hot cocoa or cider to keep things cozy.
Festive Charity Challenge
Split into teams and give each group $20 to create the most impactful donation to a local charity (like building a gift box for a child or creating care packages). Present your creations during the party and vote on the most creative idea.
“Reindeer Games” Team Olympics
Host mini-games like candy cane ring toss, holiday trivia, or a snowball toss (use cotton balls). Award silly prizes like “Most Likely to Outrun Rudolph” or “Best Fake Snowball Pitcher.”
Bonus 2024 Trends to Incorporate:
- AI Secret Santa: Use a gift generator app or AI tool to match team members with personalized gift ideas.
- Digital Keepsakes: Create a holiday recap video from team photos or videos throughout the year.
- Eco-Friendly Touches: Opt for sustainable decor like dried orange garlands or recycled crafts.
These ideas bring a fresh and personal twist to your 2024 celebration while staying budget-friendly!
Hollie Bryant-Foust
CEO & Founder