Looking for a guide to the most creative holiday party ideas for remote employees of all kinds? Look no further – we’ve created a list of the most unique and inspired ideas so you can come up with your most successful holiday event yet!
Whether your team is composed of local office-goers, globe-trotting digital nomads, families, singles, or a diverse mix, our list is designed to offer ideas and tips that resonate with everyone. Our commitment at Newlywords lies in prioritizing communication and fostering connections, and we’re eager to assist you in creating an unforgettable and inclusive team-building experience.
So, let’s get into it!
Holiday Party Ideas for Remote Employees: Preparation & Set Up for Success
Your remote employees may include families with young kids, singles, nomads and locals. Here are our top tips for making your party work for everyone, as well as what to think about in advance to prep for success:
- Time zones: Ask your employees where they’ll be based on the date of your party, and come up with a time that works for everyone if possible. If it’s not going to work for everyone, make sure to record the party to send to anyone who can’t make it!
- Choose a host or hosts: Make sure you choose a host (or more than one) who knows how to keep a party going, and knows when to move onto something new in a seamless way. If you’re not sure who this person is, there are companies you can hire to host your party for you.
- Introduction time for families, pets, friends etc: Have a time for families, friends and pets to be introduced and included in the party, to make it fun and more personal.
- Make it structured, but leave extra time for the unexpected: Have a pre-planned agenda to keep things moving, but make sure it’s a suggested agenda, not a rigid schedule, so people can have fun!
- Decide your hosting platform and make sure everyone has access: Whether you’re using Zoom, Google Meet or something else, make sure everyone is prepared in advance to avoid hiccups.
Photo by Nataliya Vaitkevich on Pexels.com
- Leave time for people to join in the beginning, but plan something for that time: Give people some time to show up late, but don’t have everyone waiting idly and awkwardly; plan some icebreakers, a guessing game (like guess that holiday tune) something else fun to start off strong and create a lively atmosphere for people as they join in.
- Send out a poll ahead of time to find out what employees want to do most out of your list: Pick your favorites out of this list, and then poll your employees to find out what they’re most excited about to ensure the highest rate of success for your event. In addition, you can have employees volunteer to plan and lead some of these, only if they want to.
- Send Fun Evites: Make it more enticing by sending out fun evites and calendar invites, so people don’t forget and to build some anticipation!
- Festive Zoom Backgrounds: Send out tips and tutorials for adding holiday-themed Zoom backgrounds to make things even more fun.
- Holiday themes: You can always pick a theme and run with it for your party, and tailor any of the ideas on this list to that specific theme!
- Supplies Needed & Gifts sent in advance: As you look through this list, some ideas include in-advance planning, like gingerbread houses, gift exchanges, and more organized activities. Make sure to have supplies sent to employees in time, and if the employees are exchanging gifts, have a deadline for them to be mailed out to each other.
47 Holiday Party Ideas For Remote Employees
1. Virtual Piano Bar Extravaganza
Who doesn’t love an entertaining afternoon at the piano bar? While you can’t treat your employees to an afternoon out on the town, you can break up the monotony of virtual meetings by organizing a Zoom session with a guest piano player. Instead of talking shop, your team can offer up song requests and enjoy some music and some relaxing fun. This musical journey will not only provide entertainment but also bring your team closer together as they bond over their favorite tunes.
2. Gingerbread House Decorating Competition
Bring some festive fun to your remote workforce by sending gingerbread house kits to each employee’s home address. Host a virtual gingerbread house decorating competition where team members can showcase their creative skills. Encourage them to share their final masterpieces during a virtual gathering. Or better yet, have your team build their houses live over Zoom to see what they can create with some fun, competitive pressure. You can even offer prizes for the most imaginative creations!
3. Secret Santa Gift Exchange by Mail
Secret Santa is a classic holiday tradition that lives on, even in today’s remote work landscape. Use a Secret Santa generator website (such as Elfster) to assign each employee a gift recipient and set some gift-giving parameters. Then, have everyone mail their chosen gifts directly to their assigned colleague. The anticipation and excitement of receiving a surprise package will add a touch of magic to the holiday season.
4. Collaborative Memory Book
Create a sense of togetherness and preserve memories from the year by crafting a collaborative memory book. A platform like Newlywords helps you compile stories, photos, and achievements from each employee. It even allows you to invite your team to contribute their own photos, encouraging thoughts, or fun memories. You could do a company yearbook, an achievement book and more! This digital (or printed) book not only serves as a keepsake but also acknowledges and celebrates your team’s accomplishments.
5. Virtual Cooking Class
Bring a culinary twist to your remote holiday celebration by organizing a virtual cooking class. Collaborate with a professional chef or even a local restaurant to guide your team through preparing a festive dish or dessert. Most programs offer a prep packet so your team has the right ingredients and tools in place to make the most of the experience. Better yet, you can send out gift cards to cover the cost of the materials needed for the cooking class. This interactive experience is a great way to spread some holiday cheer while allowing employees to learn new cooking skills and enjoy a delicious meal together.
6. Online Escape Room Adventure
Escape rooms have gained popularity over the past few years as great team-building activities. Now, thanks to technology and demand, you can book a virtual escape room experience for your remote team. Solving puzzles and riddles together, even in a virtual environment, might improve morale and foster stronger teamwork. Not only that, but it can be an exciting and challenging way to celebrate the holidays together.
7. Secret Challenges
Inject an extra layer of fun into your virtual holiday party with secret challenges, such as the classic “take a sip every time someone says [a specific word].” Spice things up by having a designated participant unaware of the chosen word, creating an entertaining guessing game with the promise of a prize. Keep the excitement flowing by rotating this secret challenge throughout the night, ensuring laughter and surprises at every turn!
8. Customized Virtual Trivia Night
Trivia night doesn’t just happen at your local pub. Test your employees’ knowledge and create a competitive yet enjoyable atmosphere with a virtual trivia night. To make it more personal (and provoke some solid laughs) customize the trivia questions to include company facts, inside jokes, and holiday-themed queries. If you’re new to the trivia scene, platforms like Trivia Plaza to make trivia night planning a breeze.
9. Online Art and Craft Workshop
Get your team’s creative juices flowing with a holiday-themed virtual art and craft workshop. Ship art supplies to your employees’ homes and arrange for an art instructor to lead the session on your company’s preferred digital platform. This hands-on activity allows team members to explore their artistic talents and create holiday-themed masterpieces (or at least have a good laugh while trying something new!).
10. Virtual Talent Show
Unleash your team’s hidden talents by hosting a virtual talent show. Encourage employees to showcase their unique abilities, whether it’s singing, dancing, stand-up comedy, or even magic tricks. Add a little holiday flare by challenging your staff to make their talent holiday-focused. This lighthearted event will not only entertain but also foster a sense of community among your remote workforce. Not familiar with talent show etiquette? Check out these great talent show tips and ideas.
Celebrating holidays with remote employees requires thinking outside the box, especially when traditional office gatherings aren’t possible. These creative ideas not only break the monotony of endless Zoom meetings but also promote team bonding, recognition, and the festive spirit. By embracing these innovative approaches, you can ensure that your remote workforce feels appreciated and connected during the holiday season, no matter where they are located.
11. Scavenger Hunt
Plan an exciting online scavenger hunt that will have your remote team on the edge of their seats. Prepare a list of fun and quirky items or challenges for your colleagues to find or complete within a set time frame – make sure it’s items they can find in their homes. Use video conferencing to share clues and keep the energy high as everyone races against the clock. The winner could receive a special holiday-themed prize to add an extra layer of excitement!
Some ideas of things to find include:
- Specific holiday decorations, like a Menorah or Santa Hat
- Kitchen items for baking
- Clothing items for the holiday or general (like running shoes, ugly sweater or holiday jewelry)
- A pen and paper or holiday cards
- A gift
- Wrapping paper
- Tape
- Scissors
12. Make a collaborative holiday recipe book
Photo by Karolina Grabowska on Pexels.com
Bring a taste of the holidays to your virtual office by creating a collaborative recipe book (like this one with Newlywords)! Have each team member share their favorite holiday recipe, complete with easy-to-follow instructions and a festive photo. Compile these recipes into a digital cookbook that can be shared with the entire team. Not only will you get to enjoy some delicious dishes, but you’ll also strengthen the bonds within your team through a shared love of cooking.
13. Have a Contest/Giveaway to Incentivize motivation and excitement
Boost motivation and excitement by organizing a festive contest or giveaway during your virtual holiday party. Whether it’s a quiz, a raffle, or a creative challenge, make sure there are exciting prizes up for grabs. This will add an element of friendly competition and encourage active participation. Consider gift cards, holiday-themed items, or even extra days off as enticing rewards.
14. Recognize employees throughout the party (and get everyone involved)
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Spread holiday cheer by recognizing your hardworking colleagues throughout the party. Before the event, encourage team members to submit shout-outs or virtual high-fives to recognize their peers for their accomplishments or positive contributions. During the party, share these accolades, allowing everyone to feel appreciated and valued. It’s a simple yet powerful way to boost morale and create a positive atmosphere.
15. Karaoke/Lip Sync Carols Battle
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Turn up the holiday tunes and let the singing (or lip-syncing) begin! Organize a virtual karaoke or lip sync battle where team members can showcase their musical talents or just have a good laugh together. Create a festive playlist and let each participant pick their favorite holiday song. This lighthearted activity is sure to bring joy and entertainment to your remote holiday celebration.
16. Paint and sip
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Unleash your team’s creativity with a virtual paint and sip session. Send out paint kits to each employee’s home and schedule a live painting class over video conferencing. A professional artist can guide the group through creating a festive masterpiece while everyone enjoys sipping on their favorite beverages. It’s a delightful way to foster teamwork and artistic expression in a relaxed, social setting.
17. Murder Mystery
Transform your virtual holiday party into a thrilling adventure with a murder mystery activity. Choose a holiday-themed storyline, assign roles to your team members, and let the mystery unravel over video conferencing. This engaging and interactive experience will have everyone working together to solve the puzzle while enjoying a unique and entertaining holiday celebration.
18. Virtual Travel/Tours
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Take your team on a virtual journey around the world with a holiday-themed travel and tour experience. Explore different countries’ holiday traditions, customs, and festive decorations through virtual tours and presentations. This educational yet entertaining activity allows your team to embrace the diversity of holiday celebrations and learn something new together.
19. Gift-wrapping party
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Turn the task of gift-wrapping into a fun and collaborative activity. Schedule a virtual gift-wrapping party where team members can showcase their creativity and share wrapping tips. Encourage everyone to use festive wrapping paper and embellishments. This not only adds a touch of holiday spirit but also turns a routine chore into a shared, joyful experience.
20. Gifts for a charity gift-wrapping or send-off party
Spread the holiday spirit by organizing a gift-wrapping party with a charitable twist. Have each team member wrap a gift to donate to a chosen charity. You can also use this opportunity to send off care packages to frontline workers or military personnel. Share the joy of giving back and make a positive impact on your community while celebrating the holidays together.
21. Holidays around the world
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Celebrate the richness of global holiday traditions with a virtual journey to holidays around the world. Have team members share stories, customs, and unique celebrations from their cultural backgrounds. This enlightening experience fosters cultural awareness and strengthens the bonds within your diverse team.
22. Cocktails/Mocktails Party/Virtual Class
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Raise a virtual toast with a festive cocktails/mocktails party or a mixology class. Send out a list of ingredients in advance, allowing everyone to prepare their favorite holiday drinks. A professional mixologist can lead the group through the process, offering tips and tricks for creating delicious beverages. It’s a spirited way to unwind and enjoy each other’s company during the holiday season.
23. Cookie Decorating
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Bring out the inner pastry chef in your team with a virtual cookie decorating activity. Ship cookie decorating kits to each participant and let the sugary creativity flow during a live video session. Share tips, tricks, and holiday-themed designs, and watch as your team creates tasty and visually appealing treats together.
24. Guessing Songs
Test your team’s musical knowledge with a fun and interactive guessing songs game. Create a playlist of holiday tunes and play short snippets for your colleagues to guess. You can use online platforms that allow participants to submit their answers in real-time. It’s a playful activity that adds a musical twist to your virtual holiday celebration.
25. Holiday movie night
Transform your virtual gathering into a cozy holiday movie night. Pick a festive film that everyone can enjoy, and use a platform that allows synchronized streaming. Encourage team members to prepare their favorite movie snacks and cozy up for a shared cinematic experience. After the movie, you can discuss your favorite scenes and share laughs together.
Some ideas for movies include:
- Elf
- Miracle on 34th Street
- It’s a Wonderful Life
- The Nightmare Before Christmas
- White Christmas
- A Christmas Story
- The Man Who Invented Christmas
- All I Want Is Christmas
26. Holiday TV show round-up
Celebrate the season with a virtual holiday TV show round-up. Have each team member recommend their favorite holiday-themed TV episodes or series. Create a watchlist and schedule a time to enjoy these shows together over video conferencing. It’s a relaxed and enjoyable way to share laughter and holiday spirit.
27. Holiday book club
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Encourage a love for reading during the holidays by organizing a virtual book club. Choose a festive book, novella, or collection of short stories related to the season, or a personal development book everyone has on their list but hasn’t made the time for yet! Set a timeline for reading and host a discussion over video conferencing. It’s a thoughtful and intellectual way to connect with your team while embracing the holiday spirit.
28. Virtual holiday games
Bring back the nostalgia of classic games with a virtual holiday games session. Choose from favorites like BINGO, Pin the Tail on the Donkey, Pictionary, Charades, and more. Use online platforms to facilitate these games and create an atmosphere of joy and friendly competition. It’s a fantastic way to engage your team in light-hearted fun.
29. Talent Show
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Unveil the hidden talents within your team by hosting a virtual talent show. Invite team members to showcase their unique abilities, whether it’s singing, dancing, playing an instrument, or any other skill. This entertaining activity allows your colleagues to express themselves creatively and fosters a sense of community.
30. Sharing favorite holiday traditions
Create a warm and inclusive atmosphere by inviting team members to share their favorite holiday traditions. Whether it’s a special family recipe, a unique cultural celebration, or a cherished annual activity, this sharing session builds understanding and connection within your team.
One great way to do this for large groups is to split into smaller groups so people have more time to share. Then, when you come back together have a group leader for each breakout to share their favorite tradition or story from the group!
31. Superlatives and/or “Guess the employee…”
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Inject some humor and camaraderie by hosting a superlatives session or a “Guess the Employee…” game. Create playful categories like “Most Festive Decorations” or “Best Holiday Pajamas” and let your team vote or guess the winners. It’s a lighthearted way to celebrate individuality and add a touch of friendly competition.
32. Costume Contest and/or Ugly Sweater Party
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Get into the holiday spirit with a virtual costume contest or ugly sweater party. Encourage team members to dress up in festive attire or show off their most creatively ugly sweaters. You can even have categories like “Most Creative Costume” or “Ugliest Sweater.” This playful activity adds a dose of humor and holiday cheer to your virtual gathering.
33. New Year’s Resolutions/Goal-Setting Workshop
Gear up for the upcoming year by hosting a New Year’s resolutions or goal-setting workshop. Discuss aspirations, share personal and professional goals, and inspire each other to start the new year on a positive note. This reflective session promotes team bonding and sets a forward-looking tone for the future.
Some ideas:
- Make vision boards
- Pick a goal, choose steps and put them on the calendar
- Choose accountability partners or groups and times to check-in with one another
34. Gift Ideas Mastermind
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Spark creativity and collaboration by organizing a gift ideas mastermind session. Have team members share unique and thoughtful gift ideas for different occasions or recipients to help them choose presents for their family and friends. This brainstorming session not only helps everyone discover creative presents but also generates a lively and festive discussion.
35. Rewrite Classic Holiday Tunes & Tales
Put a creative spin on holiday classics by organizing a re-writing session. Encourage your team to rewrite the lyrics of a beloved holiday song or craft a modern twist on a traditional tale. This imaginative activity allows your colleagues to express their creativity and share a good laugh.
You can also make Mad Libs for a really fun laugh!
36. Skill-Learning Session with an Expert
Bring in an expert to conduct a skill-learning session during your virtual holiday party. Whether it’s a cooking class, a crafting workshop, or a dance tutorial, this interactive experience adds a unique and educational element to your celebration. It’s a great way to learn something new together and create lasting memories.
37. Play the Story Game
Embark on a storytelling adventure with the Play the Story Game. Here’s how it works:
- Assign each participant a number.
- Set the theme for the story; for example, “A Snowy Day in the North Pole.”
- Ask each person to write two sentences on a piece of paper, contributing to the theme.
- Begin the story with two sentences you prepared earlier, setting the scene.
- Call out number one to read their lines, followed by number two, and continue in order.
- Record the session to capture the laughter and spontaneous twists.
- Conclude the story with the last two sentences you provide.
This lighthearted and collaborative game often results in a hilarious narrative. After the party, type up the story and share it with each guest as a keepsake.
38. Guess Who
Get ready for a delightful guessing game that combines pictures and stories. Here’s how to play:
- Before the party, ask participants to send in a picture of themselves along with a short holiday-related story or memory.
- Compile the pictures and stories without revealing who each participant is.
- During the party, share the pictures and stories one by one without disclosing the identities.
- Encourage the team to guess which colleague is represented in each picture and story.
- Revel in the laughter and surprises as the group tries to match the anecdotes with the right faces.
This interactive and engaging game not only sparks joy but also allows your team to learn more about each other’s holiday experiences in a fun and unique way.
39. The Gift of a Memorable Meal
While traditional office parties might be out of the question, you can still create a memorable holiday experience for your remote employees. Consider giving each team member an American Express Gift Card to enjoy a special dinner with their significant other. This not only allows employees to relish a delicious meal but also strengthens their personal connections, a crucial aspect of remote work. Depending on the size of your team and how much time you have, you can take it up a notch by giving gift cards to each employee’s favorite restaurant or somewhere new and fun they wouldn’t normally treat themselves.
40. DIY Ornament Decorating
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Ship ornament decorating kits to each team member’s home and host a virtual DIY ornament decorating session. Provide various craft supplies and let your team unleash their creativity. You can even turn it into a contest with categories like “Most Festive,” “Most Creative,” or “Best Use of Glitter.”
41. Holiday Storytelling Open Mic
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Create a cozy virtual space for your team to share their favorite holiday stories. Encourage team members to prepare short anecdotes, memories, or even read a holiday-themed poem. It’s a heartwarming way to celebrate the season and learn more about each other’s cherished traditions.
42. Virtual Icebreaker Bingo
Break the ice and foster connections with a holiday-themed icebreaker bingo game. Create bingo cards with holiday-related statements or activities (e.g., “Has watched Home Alone this season” or “Decorated the house with holiday lights”). The first team member to complete a row can win a festive prize.
43. Holiday Cheers & Jeers
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Set up a virtual Cheers & Jeers session where team members can share their highlights (Cheers) and funny mishaps (Jeers) from the year. It’s a humorous and reflective way to acknowledge the challenges while celebrating the successes, creating a positive atmosphere for the upcoming year.
44. DIY Hot Cocoa Bar
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Send out hot cocoa kits to each team member’s home and host a DIY hot cocoa bar over video chat. Include a variety of toppings like marshmallows, whipped cream, and sprinkles. Everyone can create their custom cup of cocoa while enjoying a warm and cozy conversation.
45. Holiday Charitable Challenge
Turn your holiday celebration into an opportunity to give back. Challenge your team to participate in a charitable activity, such as a virtual charity run, fundraising competition, or volunteering from home. Celebrate the collective impact your team can make during the holiday season.
46. Holiday Desk Decorating Contest
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Encourage team members to showcase their festive spirit by hosting a virtual desk decorating contest. Set specific themes or categories, like “Winter Wonderland” or “Best Use of Office Supplies.” Have everyone give a virtual tour of their decorated workspace, and let the team vote for the most creative setup.
47. Virtual Fireside Chat
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Create a virtual fireside chat setting with a crackling fireplace background. Invite a special guest, such as a motivational speaker or industry expert, for a relaxed and insightful conversation. It’s a unique way to bring a touch of warmth and inspiration to your virtual holiday gathering.
FAQs: Holiday Party Ideas Remote Employees Will Love
How do you throw a remote holiday party?
To host a remote holiday party, schedule a virtual gathering on platforms like Zoom or Microsoft Teams, plan festive activities like games or a virtual Secret Santa, and ensure everyone has the necessary details to join in the fun.
How do I make a virtual office Christmas party?
Create a virtual office Christmas party by coordinating a date and time, choosing a video conferencing platform, planning engaging activities like games or a virtual gift exchange, and fostering a festive ambiance with decorations and holiday spirit.
What is a virtual holiday party?
A virtual holiday party is an online gathering where people connect remotely to celebrate the holiday season. It often includes activities like games, virtual gift exchanges, and shared moments of holiday cheer over video conferencing.
How do you celebrate remote work?
Celebrate remote work by organizing virtual team-building activities, recognizing achievements through online shout-outs, and fostering a positive work culture with occasional virtual gatherings or themed events.
What are Christmas ideas for Microsoft teams?
Christmas ideas for Microsoft Teams include hosting virtual games, a festive office decorating contest, or organizing a digital Secret Santa gift exchange to bring holiday cheer to your remote team.
How to do a Zoom Christmas party?
To host a Zoom Christmas party, schedule a meeting, plan virtual activities like holiday trivia or games, encourage festive attire, and create a joyful atmosphere with decorations or a virtual background.
How do you play Secret Santa long distance?
Play Secret Santa long distance by using online Secret Santa generators to assign gift recipients, setting a budget and shipping deadline, and exchanging thoughtful gifts through mail or online delivery.
How do you make Secret Santa fun virtually?
Enhance virtual Secret Santa by incorporating interactive elements like online games or challenges, creating a guessing game for recipients, and adding a festive touch to the gift exchange experience.
How long should a virtual party be?
A virtual party should ideally last between 60 to 90 minutes, providing enough time for engaging activities and socializing without causing online fatigue.
How can I make my office more Christmassy?
Make your office more Christmassy by decorating with festive ornaments, incorporating holiday-themed desk accessories, organizing a decorating contest, and playing cheerful holiday music to create a joyful atmosphere.
How do you socialize at an office Christmas party?
Socialize at an office Christmas party by engaging in conversations, participating in team-building activities or games, and making an effort to connect with colleagues in a relaxed and festive atmosphere.
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Conclusion: The Most Creative Ways to Celebrate Holidays with Remote Employees
Hosting a memorable and engaging remote holiday party for your team is not only possible but can also foster a sense of togetherness and festive joy. Whether through virtual games, creative activities, or shared traditions, the magic of the holiday season can transcend physical distances. Embrace the spirit of connection, laughter, and celebration as you bring warmth to your virtual workspace.
May your remote holiday party be filled with moments of shared happiness, making this season truly special for your team. Here’s to creating cherished memories and spreading holiday cheer in the most innovative and delightful ways!