How to Host a Holiday Party in a Corporate Setting

While traditional in-person holiday parties are becoming more unpopular, a trend toward more restrained corporate parties is beginning to emerge. Whether you prefer to throw a virtual holiday party or plan a more casual one, this article will provide you with the tips and tricks you need to host a holiday party, including reducing costs and planning the event in an emergency. In addition, you’ll find a few useful ideas on what to do if your party is cancelled because of an epidemic or an unexpectedly large number of guests.


Corporate holiday parties are trending in a more restrained direction

The global pandemic may have forced companies to rethink the value of traditional holiday parties, which used to involve catered food, bartenders and music. However, many companies are limiting the number of external vendors they allow and are insisting that all employees get Covid-19 vaccinations. And even more companies are experimenting with new ways to support employees. Regardless of how the pandemic affects holiday parties, they will likely continue to evolve as a mix of options.

For those worried about liability risks, many companies are limiting the size of holiday parties. In fact, nine out of 10 companies hosted holiday parties last year. But these holiday gatherings are becoming more restrained. One recent Seamless survey of 1,500 companies showed that 22 percent of offices opt for a potluck party instead of an elaborate dinner. Of those that do, 44 percent don’t serve alcohol, while 21 percent banned it.


Alternatives to in-person parties

Despite the rise of digital technologies, real-life holiday parties are still very much alive and well. According to Challenger, Gray & Christmas, Inc., which surveyed 182 human resources executives, companies are scrambling to find online alternatives to holiday parties. Even Party City reports increased holiday-themed sales. If you’re still planning an in-person party this year, you might want to consider the following options.

One popular alternative is the virtual holiday scavenger hunt. It takes teamwork, video and photo evidence, and a great deal of fun. It’s perfect for companies looking for a way to spread holiday cheer without having to invite employees to travel. And since it’s virtual, it’s free to join! In fact, some employees even prefer virtual holiday parties to their traditional office parties. But which ones are the best?


Cost of hosting a holiday party

If you’re looking for ways to cut down on the cost of hosting a holiday party, consider holding a raffle. One recent survey revealed that 53% of companies give gifts to employees at their holiday parties. Employees love prizes, but it can get expensive to purchase and serve alcohol. Luckily, there are many ways to reduce the cost of holiday party food without sacrificing the quality of your event. Listed below are three ways to cut costs while hosting a holiday party.

Millennials are among the most likely to host a holiday party. Compared to other generations, millennials are most likely to incur debt in order to throw a holiday party. In fact, 55% of them say that they will at least partially incur debt. And, millennials spend the most money on gifts for the hosts: They’re the ones most likely to incur debt to host a party. Moreover, nearly 30% of Americans will bring gifts to holiday parties, and one in five will spend up to $981 on presents for their hosts.


Planning a party after a pandemic

If you’re worried about having a holiday party this year, plan ahead by considering the following precautions. Make sure all attendees receive vaccinations for the Covid virus. You can even have a mandatory vaccination testing before the party. If you’re unsure of whether your community is at risk, consider having your holiday party at your office. It’s also safer than committing to a venue.

While office holiday parties are back on the menu, their traditional incarnations have undergone a transformation. While holiday parties still involve catered food, bartenders, and music, many companies have started to limit outside vendors, and they require employees to show proof of vaccination. Some have even begun offering Covid-19 testing at their holiday parties. Companies have realized that even though they’re unable to have traditional holiday parties, offering employees something special is still a good idea.