THE DISH

The Magic of Holiday Team Celebrations

The holidays are about more than just end-of-year deadlines and vacation planning. They're a chance to pause, reflect on achievements, and celebrate the people who made it all possible—your team.

Whether your team is in-office, fully remote, or somewhere in between, there are countless ways to create memorable moments that strengthen bonds and boost morale heading into the new year.

1. Host a Virtual or Hybrid Holiday Party

Gone are the days when holiday parties required everyone in the same room. Today's best celebrations meet people where they are.

For virtual teams:

• Send treat boxes ahead of time so everyone has snacks to enjoy
• Plan interactive activities like trivia or holiday-themed games
• Keep it to 60-90 minutes to respect everyone's time
• Consider time zones when scheduling

For hybrid teams:

• Stream the in-office party for remote colleagues
• Create activity stations that work both online and in-person
• Ensure remote team members receive the same gifts as office attendees

2. Send Personalized Sweet Surprises

There's something special about receiving an unexpected treat during the busy holiday season. A personalized gift of sweets shows you care while giving employees something delicious to enjoy.

The key is personalization. Instead of sending the same generic gift basket to everyone, let employees choose their own favorites. Someone might love gourmet chocolates while their colleague prefers artisan cookies or candy.

When employees choose their own treats, you guarantee they'll receive something they actually want. It's a simple way to make everyone feel seen and appreciated.

3. Create a Year-End Recognition Moment

The holidays are the perfect time to recognize outstanding contributions and celebrate wins from the past year.

Ideas for meaningful recognition:

• Share a company-wide message highlighting team achievements
• Create personalized thank-you notes from leadership
• Put together a fun "awards ceremony" celebrating unique contributions
• Compile a year-in-review video featuring team moments

Recognition doesn't have to be elaborate. Sometimes a sincere, specific thank-you means more than any gift. Tell people exactly what they did well and why it mattered.

4. Give the Gift of Time Off

In our always-connected world, the gift of genuine time off is increasingly valuable. Consider these approaches:

1. Close the office early on the last day before the holiday break
2. Implement a "no meetings" policy during the final week
3. Encourage employees to fully disconnect during their time off
4. Consider adding an extra floating holiday for the season

Respecting work-life balance during the holidays shows employees you value them as whole people, not just workers.

5. Start a Giving-Back Tradition

Many employees find meaning in giving back during the holidays. Create opportunities for your team to make a difference together.

Ways to give back as a team:

• Organize a volunteer day at a local charity
• Set up a donation matching program
• Create care packages for those in need
• Support causes your employees care about

Giving back together creates shared experiences and reinforces company values in a meaningful way.

Making Celebrations Inclusive

Whatever you plan, keep inclusivity at the forefront. Not everyone celebrates the same holidays, and not everyone enjoys the same activities.

• Avoid assuming which holidays people celebrate
• Offer options so everyone can participate comfortably
• Consider dietary restrictions for any food-related activities
• Make participation voluntary, never mandatory

The goal is for everyone to feel welcome and appreciated, regardless of their background or beliefs.

Conclusion

Celebrating your team during the holidays doesn't require a massive budget or elaborate planning. What matters most is the intention behind your efforts—showing employees they're valued members of something meaningful.

Choose one or two ideas that fit your team's culture, execute them thoughtfully, and watch how a little celebration goes a long way.

Want to surprise your team with treats they'll love? Send a Sugarwish and let each person choose their perfect holiday gift from hundreds of delicious options.