The holiday season is fast approaching, and with it comes the much-anticipated office Christmas party. While some may approach it with a sense of duty, envisioning monotonous small talk and awkward social interactions, we believe that the office Christmas party can be so much more. It’s an opportunity to create memorable experiences, strengthen team bonds, and bring a sense of joy and togetherness to the workplace. And what better way to achieve this than by injecting a healthy dose of fun into the festivities? That’s why we’ve compiled a list of Office Xmas Party Games that truly don’t suck – games that are guaranteed to liven up your Christmas party and leave your colleagues talking about it well into the new year.
So, dust off that Santa hat, gather your co-workers, and get ready to embrace the holiday spirit with these fun and engaging office Xmas party game ideas that will make your Christmas party truly unforgettable! For each game in the list, you will find a brief description, the recommended number of participants, what you will need, and the expected effort.
In a hurry? Jump to:
- Escape the North Pole
- Christmas Movie Emoji Riddle
- Snowman Building Contest
- “Mystery Secret Santa” Gift Exchange
- Festive Minute to Win It Games
- Reindeer Antler Toss
- Ugly Christmas Sweater Fashion Show
- “Santa’s Little Helper” Obstacle Course
- “Merry Mingle” Office Christmas Party Icebreaker
- Virtual Christmas Carol Karaoke Extravaganza
- “Holiday Cooking Showdown” Bake-Off Challenge
- “Santa’s Workshop” DIY Craft and Gift-Making Station
- “Christmas Around the World” Cultural Celebration
- “Festive Memory Lane” Office Christmas Party Time Capsule
- “Office Christmas Party Oscars” Ceremony and Skits
1. “Escape the North Pole” Office Christmas Escape Room
The North Pole: a place of enchantment, mystery, and, in our scenario, a daring escape mission! If your colleagues are fans of puzzles, teamwork, and immersive experiences, then the “Escape the North Pole” Office Christmas Escape Room is the perfect activity to make your Christmas party unforgettable. In this thrilling adventure, your office will be transformed into a winter wonderland (well, metaphorically speaking) as you and your co-workers embark on a quest to “escape” from the North Pole. The room will be filled with a series of challenging puzzles, riddles, and tasks that require collaboration, problem-solving skills, and a sprinkle of holiday magic to solve. With each puzzle you conquer, you’ll inch closer to freedom and, most importantly, earn the admiration of your colleagues as the ultimate escape artists!
If you don’t have the resources or time to create a physical escape room in your office, fear not! There are plenty of online platforms that offer virtual escape room experiences, allowing you to enjoy the thrill of solving puzzles from the comfort of your office (or your living room, we don’t judge where you spend your free time).
- Ideal number of participants: 4-6 per group, scalable to the number of participants
- Things you need: Puzzles, clues (can be digital or physical), optional decorations
- Effort: High (for a self-created escape room), low (for pre-made online escape room)
- Spice it up: Offer a reward to the team that is able to escape from the “North Pole” in the fastest time.
2. The Great Christmas Movie Emoji Riddle
Netflix and chill? Not at your office xmas party! The Great Christmas Movie Emoji Riddle is a brain-teasing game that will put your colleagues’ movie knowledge and emoji deciphering skills to the test. The concept is simple yet oh-so-entertaining: Create a series of emoji riddles that represent well-known Christmas movie titles. The task is to crack the code and guess the correct movie. From holiday classics to modern favorites, these riddles will take your co-workers on a cinematic journey through the magical world of Christmas movies. Get ready for some “Egg-nogging” teamwork and friendly competition as you race to be the first to solve the riddles and claim your title (and maybe a price / drink) as the ultimate Christmas movie connoisseur! (Here are some movie ideas on Pinterest)
- Ideal number of participants: 2+
- Things you need: Smartphones, emoji keyboard
- Effort: Low
- Spice it up: Insert a humorous emoji translation that doesn’t quite make sense as a bonus question. For example, a string of random emojis that hilariously leads to a non-existent Christmas movie title.
3. Snowman Building Contest
When the first snowflakes start to fall, children and creative adults alike eagerly rush outside to build their own snowman. But why should the fun stop there? At your office Christmas party, you can unleash your inner artist and take part in a Snowman Building Contest that promises heaps of laughter and a sprinkle of friendly rivalry. The rules are simple: Teams or individuals (depending on the number of participants) will have a set amount of time to sculpt their very own snowman using a not-so-frosty material—no, we’re not suggesting you import real snow into the office (If you actually have snow and a suitable area nearby, go for it!). Instead, get your hands dirty with options like play dough, paper mache, or even recycled office supplies. The only limit is your imagination! Once the time is up, it’s time to showcase your snowman creations and let the office community decide on the most impressive, creative, or downright hilarious masterpiece.
- Ideal number of participants: 2+
- Things you need: Play dough, paper mache, or other materials for building, optional additional decoration
- Effort: Low to medium, depending on the chosen material
- Spice it up: Choose a theme for the snowmen, such as “Part of the Leadership Team” or “Future Employee.
4. “Mystery Secret Santa” Gift Exchange
The annual tradition of Secret Santa gift exchanges is a beloved staple of office Christmas celebrations. But this year, we’re spicing things up with a little twist that will add an extra element of intrigue and excitement to the gift-giving process. Introducing the “Mystery Secret Santa” Gift Exchange! In this version of the classic game, the gift-giving experience is transformed into a series of clues and riddles, turning it into a thrilling treasure hunt that will keep your colleagues on the edge of their seats. Here’s how it works: Each participant becomes both a Secret Santa and a gift recipient. The twist? Instead of revealing who their chosen giftee is right away, they will leave a trail of cryptic clues and hints around the office. These clues can be in the form of riddles, puzzles, or even personalized hints that lead the recipient to their gift. As the rest of the office deciphers the clues, the anticipation and excitement will build until the grand reveal, creating a sense of mystery and fun that elevates the gift exchange to a whole new level.
- Ideal number of participants: 4+
- Things you need: Clue cards, envelopes, or digital devices for sending clues
- Effort: Medium
- Spice it up: Add a “company gift” such as cash or gift cards (e.g. “extra day off”) to one of the hidden gifts to increase motivation even more.
No worries, our team’s here to help, and there’s zero obligation. Reach out today!
5. Festive Minute to Win It Games
Time is of the essence, especially when the clock is ticking down to Christmas! Our Festive Minute to Win It Games are a high-energy and fast-paced way to inject some adrenaline into your office Christmas party. Inspired by the popular TV game show “Minute to Win It,” these mini-challenges will put your speed, precision, and, let’s be honest, your ability to look absolutely ridiculous, to the test. The best part? You can tailor the games to fit the holiday theme, using common Christmas items and a dash of creativity to create a series of entertaining and wacky tasks. From stacking red and green plastic cups into a festive pyramid to transferring ornaments from one end of the room to the other using nothing but a spoon clenched between your teeth (yes, we said it was wacky), these games are guaranteed to elicit laughter, create memorable moments, and determine who among your colleagues is the undisputed “Minute to Win It” champion.
- Ideal number of participants: 2+
- Things you need: Christmas items (ornaments, candy canes, plastic cups, etc.), stopwatch
- Effort: Low to medium, depending on the chosen games
- Spice it up: Combine multiple games to crown the “Minute to Win Champion”.
6. Reindeer Antler Toss
It’s time to put those antlers to good use! The Reindeer Antler Toss is a delightful game that will test your aim and agility, all while embracing the festive spirit of the season. Here’s how it works: Participants will be tasked with donning a pair of inflatable reindeer antlers (yes, you read that right) and attempting to toss rings onto them. Sounds easy? Think again! The wobbly antlers will make this game both hilarious and challenging, as your colleagues try to master the art of precision while looking like Santa’s four-legged companions.
- Ideal number of participants: 2+
- Things you need: Inflatable reindeer antlers, toss rings (can be purchased or DIYed)
- Effort: Low
- Spice it up: Increase the challenge by blindfolding participants, or make it mandatory to turn three times before throwing.
7. Ugly Christmas Sweater Fashion Show and Contest
Ah, the Ugly Christmas Sweater – an office xmas party games classic that has transcended the boundaries of taste and style, embracing the beauty of kitsch and nostalgia. If your colleagues have a flair for the flamboyant and a love for all things delightfully tacky, then the Ugly Christmas Sweater Fashion Show and Contest will be a highlight of your office Christmas party. The rules are simple: Participants will proudly don their most eye-searing, pom-pom-adorned, LED-light-flashing, and tinsel-laden Christmas sweaters, turning the office into a veritable runway of questionable fashion choices. As they strut their stuff down the makeshift catwalk, they’ll have the chance to showcase their sweaters with all the confidence and pizzazz they can muster.
After all the eyes have been sufficiently dazzled, the audience – that’s your co-workers cheering them on – will have the opportunity to cast their votes and determine the winners in categories like “Most Outrageous,” “Most Creative,” or, paradoxically, “So Ugly It’s Actually Beautiful.” The Fashion Show and Contest will not only celebrate the art of embracing the unconventional and letting your festive flag fly high, but also provide a platform for your colleagues to showcase their unique personalities and, let’s face it, their questionable fashion sense. Who knows, you might discover a hidden talent for bedazzling and tacky sweater design that will earn someone a spot on next season’s “Project Runway: Christmas Edition”!
- Ideal number of participants: 4+ (More participants will add to the variety and hilarity of the contest, but the number should be manageable for everyone to showcase their sweaters.)
- Things you need: Ugly Christmas sweaters (each participant must have their own unique and, preferably, outrageously ugly sweater), optional catwalk or stage for the fashion show (to add a dramatic touch), festive music (to set the mood and accompany the fashion show)
- Effort: Low (Preparing and organizing the contest is relatively easy, and participants only need to put in the effort to find or create their own Ugly Christmas sweaters.)
- Spice it up: Declare a winner in the special category “Best Overall Outfit” for the employee whose entire outfit screams “Christmas”.
Celebrate Virtually
Did you know we host awesome Virtual Christmas Parties for your remote colleagues?
8. “Santa’s Little Helper” Obstacle Course
It’s time to put your physical prowess, agility, and, let’s be honest, your ability to navigate through a maze of holiday-themed chaos to the test with the “Santa’s Little Helper” Obstacle Course! This high-energy, action-packed activity is a surefire way to get your colleagues moving, laughing, and possibly questioning their level of fitness as they sprint, jump, and crawl their way through a series of festive challenges.
The obstacle course can be customized to include a variety of fun and holiday-themed tasks, such as hurdling over “snow drifts” (we’re talking about pillows strategically placed on the floor), shimmying through a “chimney” (a makeshift tunnel), or balancing carefully on a “sleigh” (a plank of wood or something similar) to deliver presents with unwavering precision. Teams or individuals will race against the clock to conquer each obstacle, proving their speed, coordination, and, of course, their unyielding holiday spirit. So, lace up those running shoes and get ready to embark on an epic journey that would make even Santa’s little helpers proud!
- Ideal number of participants: 4+
- Things you need: Obstacle course materials (e.g., pillows, tunnels, planks), stopwatch
- Effort: Medium
- Spice it up: Turn the team races into relay races to increase the thrill
9. “Merry Mingle” Office Christmas Party Icebreaker
The “Merry Mingle” Office Christmas Party Icebreaker is more than just a game – it’s a social lubricant that will banish awkward silences and transform your office Christmas party into a lively and interactive gathering. This activity is designed to get your colleagues mingling, chatting, and getting to know each other in a fun and festive atmosphere. The “Merry Mingle” Icebreaker consists of a series of holiday-themed prompts, questions, or tasks that participants can use as conversation starters while they navigate the party. These prompts can range from lighthearted holiday trivia to personal fun facts about your colleagues. For example, participants might be encouraged to share their favorite Christmas memory, reveal the most unusual gift they’ve ever received, or demonstrate their best Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer impression. By actively engaging in these icebreaker activities, your colleagues will not only break down social barriers but also foster a sense of camaraderie and connection that extends beyond the confines of the office.
- Ideal number of participants: 4+
- Things you need: Icebreaker prompt cards or a digital presentation, optional holiday-themed props
- Effort: Low
- Spice it up: Use our “Holiday Icebreakers Cheat Sheet” for inspiration: Download PDF
10. Virtual Christmas Carol Karaoke Extravaganza
Gather round, ye merry co-workers, for a Virtual Christmas Carol Karaoke Extravaganza that will have your vocal cords tuned to the sounds of the season! In this modern twist on a timeless tradition, we invite you to embrace the magic of Christmas carols in a virtual karaoke wonderland. The concept is simple: Whether you’re using a dedicated karaoke platform, a video conferencing software with screen-sharing capabilities, or even just your office’s favorite music streaming service, select a sleighful of classic Christmas carols that will serve as your karaoke repertoire. From beloved favorites like “Jingle Bells” and “Silent Night” to more upbeat tunes such as “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree,” there’s a song for every caroler to unleash their inner superstar.
Participants can either take turns showcasing their solo singing talents or join forces in rousing group performances. The virtual format allows for creative embellishments, from adding festive backgrounds and virtual props to incorporating hilarious on-screen lyric prompts to ensure that, well, nobody forgets the words. So, grab that microphone (or, let’s be real, just use your phone as a makeshift mic), warm up your vocal cords, and get ready to belt out those Christmas carols with all the enthusiasm and questionable pitch accuracy you can muster. After all, it’s the spirit of togetherness and joy that truly counts!
- Ideal number of participants: 4+
- Things you need: Karaoke platform (e.g., YouTube with karaoke versions, dedicated karaoke software), microphone (optional), video conferencing software (if hosting virtually)
- Effort: Low
- Spice it up: Award a special “Best Christmas Package” prize to the contestant or team with the best performance, outfit, etc.
11. “Holiday Cooking Showdown” Bake-Off Challenge
If there’s one thing that unites people during the holiday season, it’s the love of irresistible treats and the sweet aroma of freshly baked delights. The “Holiday Cooking Showdown” Bake-Off Challenge is a delectable competition that will bring out the culinary maestros hiding among your colleagues. The premise is simple: Teams or individuals will showcase their baking prowess by preparing and decorating a scrumptious selection of holiday-themed cookies, cupcakes, or other confections. However, there’s a twist that would make even the most dramatic reality TV cooking competitions envious. In the spirit of teamwork and creativity, each team member will only have access to a specific set of ingredients or tools, adding an element of challenge and collaboration as they combine their limited resources to create mouthwatering masterpieces.
Once the ovens have cooled and the final sprinkles have been delicately placed, it’s time for the most crucial part of the challenge: the judging. A panel of discerning (or, let’s be honest, delightfully biased) judges will evaluate the baked goods based on criteria like taste, presentation, and, of course, the ability to capture the essence of the holiday season. The “Holiday Cooking Showdown” Bake-Off Challenge is not only a fun and delicious way to bond with your colleagues but also an opportunity to discover hidden baking talents and, let’s face it, shamelessly indulge in an abundance of sugary delights.
- Ideal number of participants: 4+ (2 people per team recommended)
- Things you need: Baking ingredients, limited tools or ingredients per team, optional decorations
- Effort: Medium to high, depending on the complexity of the baked goods and the availability of a kitchen.
- Spice it up (literally): Who says Christmas is not hot season? Motivate teams to incorporate spicy ingredients like chili into their classic recipes – the best “Hot Christmas Treat” wins.
12. “Santa’s Workshop” DIY Craft and Gift-Making Station
In the hectic rush of modern life, the art of handmade gifts and crafts has become a precious rarity, often overshadowed by the convenience of store-bought presents. However, we believe that there’s a special kind of magic in creating personalized, heartfelt gifts that carry the touch of your own hands and the warmth of your creative spirit. The “Santa’s Workshop” DIY Craft and Gift-Making Station is a nostalgic and enchanting activity that will transport your office Christmas party to a whimsical realm of creativity and craftsmanship. At this charming workshop, your colleagues will have the opportunity to roll up their sleeves, unleash their inner artisans, and partake in a variety of delightful, holiday-themed DIY craft projects.
The possibilities are as endless as Santa’s gift sack: From hand-painted ornaments and festive wreaths to personalized greeting cards and charming homemade candles, there’s a craft for every taste and skill level. Stations will be set up with all the necessary materials, including an assortment of ribbons, glitters, colorful papers, and other enchanting trinkets. As your colleagues immerse themselves in the joy of creating, they’ll not only craft beautiful keepsakes and gifts to treasure but also experience the therapeutic and bonding power of hands-on artistry. Whether you’re a seasoned DIY enthusiast or a novice eager to discover your inner crafter, the “Santa’s Workshop” DIY Craft and Gift-Making Station is a heartwarming reminder that the most meaningful gifts are often those that are made with love and care.
- Ideal number of participants: 4+
- Things you need: Craft supplies, optional decorations, personalized gift items
- Effort: Low to medium
- Spice it up: Make it an official office tradition by showcasing the most creative gifts and crafts in your annual holiday display.
13. “Christmas Around the World” Cultural Celebration
The holiday season is a time when traditions, customs, and festive celebrations take center stage across the globe. The “Christmas Around the World” Cultural Celebration is a unique and educational journey that will immerse your office in the rich tapestry of global holiday traditions. At this multicultural extravaganza, your colleagues will have the opportunity to learn, experience, and, most importantly, celebrate the diverse ways in which Christmas is honored in different countries and cultures. The event can take on a variety of formats, from interactive presentations and storytelling to captivating displays and, of course, tantalizing culinary delights. Each station or presentation will highlight a specific country or region, sharing fascinating facts about their unique Christmas traditions, showcasing traditional decorations and attire, and offering fun activities that capture the essence of that culture.
For example, your colleagues might learn how to craft Mexican “poinsettia” paper flowers, sample German stollen and mulled wine, participate in an Italian “Befana” tradition of gift-giving, or engage in English carol singing. The “Christmas Around the World” Cultural Celebration is not only a fun and eye-opening experience but also a testament to the inclusivity and appreciation of diversity within your office. It provides a platform for your colleagues to connect, learn from one another, and, who knows, discover shared roots or new traditions that they can embrace in their own holiday celebrations.
- Ideal number of participants: 4+
- Things you need: Cultural presentation materials, optional decorations, traditional food samples (if available)
- Effort: Medium to high, depending on the complexity of the presentations
- Spice it up: Combine the event with traditional Christmas music from around the world.
14. “Festive Memory Lane” Office Christmas Party Time Capsule
As the years pass by, our memories of joyous moments, inside jokes, and shared experiences at the office Christmas party may fade like the twinkle of a distant holiday light. The “Festive Memory Lane” Office Christmas Party Time Capsule is a heartwarming and nostalgic activity that will preserve the spirit of your current celebration for years to come. Gather your colleagues to embark on a time-traveling journey as you create a veritable treasure trove of memories in the form of a time capsule. The time capsule can be a creatively decorated box, a sealed container, or even a digital repository, depending on your preference and available resources.
As a group, you’ll have the delightful task of filling the time capsule with mementos that capture the essence of your office Christmas party and the current year. These mementos can include personalized notes and messages from your colleagues trinkets that hold special significance, or even predictions and resolutions for the upcoming year. As you lovingly place these keepsakes into the time capsule, you’re creating a snapshot of this particular Christmas celebration that will evoke smiles and fond reminiscences when it’s opened in the future. Consider setting a date – perhaps the following Christmas party in a few years – for the grand unveiling, allowing your future selves to bask in the nostalgia and rediscover the magic of past celebrations. The “Festive Memory Lane” Office Christmas Party Time Capsule is a touching reminder that, as time marches on, the memories we create together are timeless treasures.
- Ideal number of participants: 4+
- Things you need: Time capsule container, optional decorative and sealing materials, mementos for the time capsule
- Effort: Low to medium
- Spice it up: Get an instant camera so people can take their own snapshots at the office holiday party to include in the capsule.
15. “Office Christmas Party Oscars” Ceremony and Skits
Lights, camera, and a whole lot of office shenanigans – it’s time to roll out the red carpet for the “Office Christmas Party Oscars” Ceremony and Skits, where your colleagues will take center stage in a dazzling display of talent, humor, and, let’s be honest, theatrical overacting (we love it). This grand finale among our office Xmas party games is a fantastic way to close your Christmas celebration with laughter and memorable performances.
The “Office Christmas Party Oscars” Ceremony and Skits will have your colleagues channeling their inner Hollywood stars as they participate in a series of entertaining and often hilariously exaggerated skits. The themes of the skits can range from office-related parodies and inside jokes to lighthearted reimaginings of classic holiday tales. For example, your colleagues might create and perform a comedic skit about the trials and tribulations of office life during the holiday season, complete with over-the-top characters and laugh-out-loud situations. Or they could put a creative twist on well-known stories like “A Christmas Carol,” turning it into a wacky and office-appropriate theatrical extravaganza.
To add an extra layer of excitement, you can introduce the concept of the “Office Christmas Party Oscars,” complete with categories like “Best Actor/Actress”, “Best Script” or even “Most Dramatic Overreaction”. A panel of judges or the entire office community can then cast their votes to determine the winners. The ceremony itself can be a glamorous affair, with makeshift red carpets, impromptu acceptance speeches, and, of course, an abundance of applause and supportive cheers for the thespian talents on display. The “Office Christmas Party Oscars” Ceremony and Skits will not only showcase the creative and entertaining sides of your colleagues but also create a fun and memorable way to conclude your Christmas party.
- Ideal number of participants: 2+ per skit, scalable to the number of participants
- Things you need: Skit preparation time, optional props and costumes
- Effort: Medium to high (depends on the preparation and performance level of the skits)
- Spice it up: Award a “Special Oscar” for extraordinary achievements in categories such as “Best office Barista” or “Most creative Business Idea”.
And the Winner Is… The Best Office Xmas Party Games Ever!
Need more inspiration? Here are some awesome ideas for your Christmas Party at work!
And here is a list of team building games for the rest of the year!
Office Xmas Party Games: Sign-Off
We hope that your colleagues will bask in the joy, laughter, and camaraderie that these entertaining and engaging office Xmas party games have brought to your celebration.
Whether you choose to embrace the competitive spirit with exhilarating challenges, foster a sense of togetherness through collaborative and cultural experiences, or simply let your festive imaginations run wild in the realms of creativity and humor, the ultimate reward lies in the bonds you strengthen and the memories you create with your co-workers. So, as we bid you farewell, we encourage you to select the games and activities that resonate most with your office and tailor them to your unique preferences, because, after all, the true magic of the office Christmas party is the joy it brings to those who partake in it. Wishing you a holly, jolly, and fantastically fun-filled Christmas celebration – xoxo teamazing
