Working on Christmas Eve/Day can be a morale buster for employees. But you can make it tolerable or even fun with a few creative ideas:
- Decorate the workplace. Lights, tinsel, Christmas stockings, and other decorations can remind people of happy memories and make the office feel more festive and fun.
- Be Secret Santa. Arrange for everyone working on Christmas to get a special gift such as a day off, a gift card for something they love to do, a book they’ll enjoy, movie tickets, etc.
- Encourage ugly sweaters or silly holiday attire such as crazy hats or scarves.
- Have an awards ceremony. Give a special shout-out to people who are working over the holidays. Hand out ribbons or sashes with a gift card.
- Have special holiday goodies, such as gourmet treats from a local store.
- Play different Christmas-themed games. Trivia games, treasure hunts, and other group activities can encourage teamwork and camaraderie.
- Host a cubicle/department decoration contest with fun prizes.
- Kick off a volunteer or charity event for the coming year.
- Have a photo booth set up where people can take free holiday photos.
- Have a ‘bring your kids (or pets) to work’ day.