Alright folks! We’re counting down the days to Christmas. I’m sure most of you have the holidays planned to a tee by now. ‘Tis the season to be jolly, even if your team is scattered across the digital landscape. The beauty of remote work is that you can still embrace the festive spirit and celebrate Christmas with your colleagues from the cozy confines of your home office. Here’s a guide to infuse some holiday magic into your virtual team celebrations.

1. Virtual Secret Santa:

Start the festivities with a virtual Secret Santa exchange. Platforms like Elfster or even a simple online randomizer can help you assign secret gift givers. Set a budget, share wishlists, and reveal your Secret Santa during a video call. It’s a delightful way to exchange gifts and share the joy of giving, even from miles away.

2. Ugly Sweater Contest:

Encourage your team to don their most outrageous, festive, and downright ugly sweaters. Kick off a virtual Ugly Sweater Contest during a video meeting and let the laughter and holiday cheer flow. You can even have a vote to crown the winner and offer a virtual trophy or bragging rights as a prize.

3. Virtual Holiday Happy Hour:

Gather your team for a virtual holiday happy hour. Mix up some festive mocktails or share your favorite holiday drink recipes. You can play virtual games, host a trivia night with holiday-themed questions, or simply chat and unwind together. It’s a fantastic way to foster camaraderie and celebrate the end of the year.

4. Online Cookie Decorating Party:

Coordinate an online cookie decorating party where team members can showcase their baking skills or attempt a festive gingerbread house construction. Share recipes in advance, and everyone can bake and decorate together during a video call. It’s a sweet way to bond over shared experiences, and you might discover some hidden baking talents within your team.

5. Virtual Holiday Playlist:

Create a collaborative holiday playlist that everyone can contribute to. Whether it’s classic carols, modern hits, or quirky holiday tunes, the playlist can set the mood for your virtual celebrations. Play it during team meetings, breaks, or whenever someone needs a festive pick-me-up.

6. Team Holiday Card Exchange:

Design and exchange virtual holiday cards among your team members. You can use online card-making tools or create simple digital cards using graphic design software. Personalize your messages and share them during a virtual meeting. It’s a thoughtful way to spread holiday wishes and brighten everyone’s day.

7. Festive Backgrounds and Avatars:

Encourage your team to get creative with their virtual presence. Have a competition for the best holiday-themed virtual background or avatar. From winter wonderlands to Santa hats and reindeer antlers, let the holiday spirit shine through during your virtual meetings.

8. Virtual Cooking Class:

Host a virtual cooking class featuring a festive recipe that everyone can follow along with. Whether it’s baking holiday cookies, crafting a seasonal cocktail, or preparing a traditional dish, cooking together adds a delightful twist to your virtual celebrations.

Embracing the festive season in a remote work setting might be different, but it doesn’t have to be any less joyful. With a dash of creativity and a sprinkle of virtual magic, your remote team can come together to celebrate Christmas, creating memories that will be cherished even from the comfort of your own home. Remember to work smart and be a blessing to someone today. Stay safe and healthy!

Written by Jaie O. TheHelp