Team holiday party planning checklist

Start with the format, not the venue

Ask what the team would actually enjoy. A long dinner, a daytime lunch, a volunteer afternoon and an evening mixer all work, and they suit different people. Pick the format first, then look for places that fit it.

• Decide if partners or guests are invited. It changes the headcount, the room and the tone.
• Choose a time that works for people with caregiving, commutes or early shifts.
• Check your company's policy on alcohol at events before you book anything.

Count heads before you commit

• Set an RSVP date and tell people it is firm.
• Include remote teammates. Decide whether they get a delivered treat, a video toast or a stipend, and say so in the invitation.
• Ask for dietary and accessibility needs in the same form.
• Confirm your numbers with the venue or caterer. Minimums, deposits and cancellation terms differ, so get them in writing.

Plan the drinks and the non-drinks

Not everyone drinks, and nobody should have to explain why. Make the non-alcoholic options as good as everything else. Serve real food, set a clear end time and keep water easy to find.

Plan the ride home

Decide this before the party, not at the end of it. Put ride options in the invitation: a shuttle, ride credits or transit times. Encourage anyone who has been drinking to use them, and never drive after drinking. Managers set the tone, so they should use the options too.

Pick one thoughtful extra

A note from a manager, a small gift or a short thank-you speech lands better than a pile of extras. If you are choosing a gift, our guide to thoughtful year-end gifts for teams starts with the gesture before the product.

Team gifts for adult celebrations

If a gift fits your group, see our corporate recovery kits. For a team order, contact us with your recipient count and need-by date.

Planning a conference trip instead? See the people-first corporate conference planning guide.

Team holiday party planning FAQ

How far ahead should I plan a team holiday party?

Start as soon as you have chosen the format. Venues and caterers can book up in the holiday season, and availability varies by city and date, so confirm directly with each one.

How do I plan a holiday party that works for people who don't drink?

Make the non-alcoholic options a real part of the menu, serve good food, keep the end time clear and don't make drinks the focus of the event.

What should a team holiday party invitation include?

The date, time, place, who is invited, the RSVP deadline, dietary and accessibility questions, dress code, end time and how to get home.

How do I help everyone get home safely after a work party?

Share ride options in advance, such as a shuttle, ride credits or transit times, and encourage anyone who has been drinking to use them. Never drive after drinking.

Should I include remote employees in the holiday party?

Yes. Decide on a delivered treat, a video toast or a stipend, and say what it is in the first invitation.