As the 2025 holiday season approaches, the evolving work landscape keeps employee engagement a top priority for every organization. According to Stanford's 2025 Remote Work Report, 38% of employees are now working remotely at least part-time. As stated in The Future of Work Trends, by Gartner, 72% of companies adopt hybrid models, highlighting that the need for meaningful virtual connections has never been more critical.
The challenge? Creating holiday celebrations that don't feel like just another video call. After years of remote work, "Zoom fatigue" has become a real barrier to engagement.
But here's the good news: virtual games and activities have evolved dramatically. What started as awkward video calls with forced conversation has transformed into immersive, interactive experiences that bring teams together—sometimes even more effectively than traditional office parties.
In this comprehensive guide, you'll discover:
A step-by-step plan to ensure your virtual holiday party succeeds
A selection of platforms based on your specific team needs
35+ unique, tested virtual holiday party ideas organized by type and engagement level
Implementation instructions
Troubleshooting tips for common virtual event challenges
Whether you're an HR professional planning for a company of hundreds, a team leader organizing a department gathering, or a remote worker tasked with creating connections, this guide provides everything you need to create a memorable virtual holiday experience.
Explore TeamOut's complete collection of virtual holiday party ideas, featuring fun holiday-themed games, holiday trivia, and more to make your virtual office holiday party one for the books.
Quick Ice Breakers
These quick activities help warm up the virtual room and get everyone engaged from the start of your virtual holiday party. Check out our top picks:
1. Holiday Scavenger Hunt Sprint
Energize your team with this online holiday scavenger hunt where team members race to find holiday-themed items in their homes. This activity creates movement, laughter, and shared experiences as employees scramble to locate items and show them on camera. These fun and creative challenges will certainly elevate your virtual holiday office party. Consider planning a corporate retreat in warmer destinations for an in-person gathering.
🚀 Implementation Steps:
Prepare a list of 10-15 holiday-related items of varying difficulty
At the start signal, call out items one by one
Participants must find each item and show it on camera
Award points for speed and creativity
🧰 Materials Required: List of scavenger hunt items, scoring system
⏱️ Time Requirement: 10-15 minutes
🔄 Difficulty Level: Easy
👥 Group Size: Works for any size, but best with 5-30 participants
🔄 Variations: Create team-based competition for larger groups; add a "story challenge" where participants must use found items to tell a tale.
2. Two Truths and a Holiday Lie
This holiday themed version of the popular icebreaker asks participants to share three statements about their holiday traditions or experiences—two true and one false. The group then votes on which statement they believe is a lie, leading to surprising revelations.
🚀 Implementation Steps:
Give team members 2-3 minutes to prepare their statements
Each person shares their three statements
Others vote (using reaction buttons or chat) on which is the lie
Reveal the truth and share the stories behind the true statements
🧰 Materials Required: None (a shared document to track points can add fun competition)
⏱️ Time Requirement: 15-20 minutes (depends on group size)
🔄 Difficulty Level: Easy
👥 Group Size: Best for groups of 5-15; use breakout rooms for larger teams
🔄 Variations: Elevate your virtual holiday party and create themed categories like "holiday food disasters" or "unusual family traditions".
3. Virtual Holiday Backdrop Contest
Encourage creativity and personal expression with a virtual backdrop competition. Participants create or select holiday-themed virtual backgrounds for the video conference platform, then present them with a brief explanation. This activity adds visual interest to your virtual holiday party while learning about colleagues' artistic skills.
🚀 Implementation Steps:
Announce the contest in advance
Allocate 30 seconds per person to present their backdrop and explain their choice
Have participants vote for different categories (most creative, funniest, most festive)
Award simple digital certificates to winners
🧰 Materials Required: Virtual background capability on your video conferencing platforms
⏱️ Time Requirement: 10-15 minutes
🔄 Difficulty Level: Easy
👥 Group Size: Works for any size
🔄 Variations: Create specific themes like "holidays around the world" or "Christmas tree designs"; have departments compete as teams; incorporate company branding elements as a challenge
4. Emoji Holiday Story
Challenge participants' creativity with this storytelling virtual game. Each person must tell a brief holiday story or memory using only emoji in the chat, while others try to decipher it. This activity showcases how differently people interpret visual symbols during your virtual holiday event.
🚀 Implementation Steps:
Explain the rules and provide an example
Give participants 2 minutes to compose their emoji stories
Each person posts their emoji sequence in the chat
Others try to interpret the story before the creator explains
🧰 Materials Required: Chat function with emoji support
⏱️ Time Requirement: 10-15 minutes
🔄 Difficulty Level: Medium
👥 Group Size: Best for 5-20 participants
🔄 Variations: For your online holiday party, create categories like "worst holiday gift ever" or "holiday cooking disaster"; pair participants to create stories together; use holiday movies as inspiration.
5. 30-Second Holiday Spotlight
Get in the holiday mood and give everyone a moment to shine with this quick introduction activity. Each participant gets exactly 30 seconds to share a holiday-related fun fact or favorite holiday tradition that others might not know about. The strict time limit keeps the energy high while creating space for everyone to contribute to your virtual holiday party, regardless of team size.
🚀 Implementation Steps:
Use a timer that everyone can see
Establish a random order
Each person shares for exactly 30 seconds
No questions during the sharing—save the conversation for after all spotlights
🧰 Materials Required: Timer visible to all participants
⏱️ Time Requirement: Depends on group size (30 seconds per person plus transitions)
🔄 Difficulty Level: Easy
👥 Group Size: Works for any size, though consider breakout rooms for groups larger than 20
🔄 Variations: Here's a fun idea: provide specific prompts like "your most memorable holiday gift" or "a holiday tradition you've created"; use themed categories based on religious holiday traditions or secular celebrations
Team-Building Activities
These holiday team-building activities are more substantial exercises designed to foster collaboration and strengthen relationships during your virtual holiday party. Check them out:
6. Virtual Holiday Escape Room
Test your team's problem-solving skills and collaboration with a holiday-edition virtual escape room. Working together in small groups, team members solve puzzles, decode messages, and complete challenges to "escape" within the time limit.
🚀 Implementation Steps:
Select a pre-made virtual escape room or create your own with holiday themes
Divide participants into teams of 4-6 people using breakout rooms
Provide clear instructions and starting materials
Set a time limit (typically 30-45 minutes)
Bring everyone back to share experiences and solutions
👥 Group Size: Best with 8-30 participants divided into small teams
🔄 Variations: Elevate your company holiday party and create puzzles that incorporate inside jokes or workplace knowledge; adjust difficulty based on team experience; add competitive elements with leaderboards.
7. Holiday Trivia Tournament
On your next virtual holiday party, engage your team's competitive spirit with a multi-round trivia challenge. Covering everything from holiday traditions around the world to Christmas tree facts and holiday-inspired games, this competition builds excitement while educating participants about celebrations and customs.
🚀 Implementation Steps:
Prepare 20-30 holiday-themed questions of varying difficulty
Use a virtual trivia platform or simply share questions on the screen
Divide into teams or play individually
Include multiple formats: multiple choice, true/false, picture identification
🔄 Variations: Focus on company history alongside holiday themes; create industry-specific categories.
8. Collaborative Holiday Playlist Creation
Share this musical experience by creating a holiday playlist that reflects your team's tastes and traditions. This activity celebrates cultural differences while creating a lasting resource the team can enjoy throughout the holiday season, extending the virtual holiday party's impact beyond the event itself.
🚀 Implementation Steps:
Create a collaborative playlist on Spotify, YouTube, or similar platform
Share the access link with all participants
Each person adds 2-3 songs that represent their holiday experience
During the party, play selections of holiday music
Share the final playlist with everyone to enjoy after the event
🧰 Materials Required: Music streaming platform with collaborative features
⏱️ Time Requirement: 20-30 minutes during the party (plus pre-party contributions)
🔄 Difficulty Level: Easy
👥 Group Size: Works for any size
🔄 Variations: Create themed playlists (traditional, modern, international) with your remote team; have departments compete for "best holiday playlist"; create a music bingo game using these songs.
9. Virtual Holiday Decoration Tour
Transform the limitation of remote work into an opportunity for connection by having team members give brief tours of their festive decorations or holiday spaces. This activity offers a glimpse into colleagues' lives outside of work, sparking conversation starters and fostering a deeper appreciation for diverse traditions and styles, while combating the isolation of remote work.
🚀 Implementation Steps:
Schedule volunteers in advance or take spontaneous volunteers
Each person gets 2-3 minutes to show their Christmas tree, menorah, or other holiday decorations via mobile camera
Encourage questions and comments from viewers
Consider categories for friendly competition (most elaborate, most minimalist, most unique)
🧰 Materials Required: Mobile device with camera for optimal mobility
⏱️ Time Requirement: 20-30 minutes (depends on group size)
🔄 Difficulty Level: Easy
👥 Group Size: Best for 5-20 participants
🔄 Variations: For extra virtual holiday fun, focus on specific challenges like "decorations using only office supplies"; extend to include outdoor decorations or neighborhood highlights.
10. Holiday Tradition Exchange
Create cross-cultural understanding and appreciation through the sharing of holiday traditions. To develop this holiday party idea, team members prepare short presentations about their cultural holiday practices while educating the team about celebrations and customs from around the world.
🚀 Implementation Steps:
Ask participants to prepare 2-3 minute presentations in advance
Include visual elements like holiday photos or objects
Schedule presentations with time for questions after each
Consider creating a digital "traditional cookbook" as a takeaway
🧰 Materials Required: Presentation sharing capability, optional template for consistency
⏱️ Time Requirement: 30-45 minutes
🔄 Difficulty Level: Medium
👥 Group Size: Best for 5-15 participants; use breakout rooms for larger groups
🔄 Variations: Take your virtual holiday party to the next level and focus on specific aspects like holiday cookies and decorations; incorporate company traditions alongside personal ones.
11. Remote Team Holiday Awards Ceremony
Make the most of your virtual holiday party and celebrate your team's achievements and personalities with an award ceremony that recognizes professional accomplishments and personal qualities. Creating award categories ensures everyone receives recognition, boosting morale and reinforcing positive behaviors and contributions during the holiday season.
🚀 Implementation Steps:
Create award categories
Prepare digital certificates or arrange for physical awards to be shipped
Script introductions for each award with specific examples
Consider having senior leadership present some awards
Take screenshots of winners for company newsletter
🧰 Materials Required: Digital certificates, presentation slides, optional physical awards
⏱️ Time Requirement: 30-45 minutes
🔄 Difficulty Level: Medium
👥 Group Size: Works for any size
🔄 Variations: Include humorous awards on your virtual holiday party alongside achievement recognition; create department-specific categories; incorporate peer nominations.
12. Virtual Volunteer Project
Combine team building with social responsibility - a team-building trend for 2025 - by incorporating a virtual volunteer activity into your virtual holiday celebration. Working together on a charitable project creates a sense of purpose while reinforcing company values and making a positive impact during the holiday season.
🚀 Implementation Steps:
Select a virtual volunteer opportunity (letter writing, fundraising, digital mentoring)
Arrange any necessary materials or platform access
Begin with an introduction from the benefiting organization
Divide into teams if appropriate for the activity
Share impact metrics after completion
🧰 Materials Required: Depends on selected activity
⏱️ Time Requirement: 45-60 minutes
🔄 Difficulty Level: Medium
👥 Group Size: Works for any size, though some activities have minimum requirements
🔄 Variations: Offer multiple project options for different interests; extend beyond the virtual holiday party with ongoing involvement; match company donations to time contributed.
Holiday-Themed Games
Who said virtual holiday party games aren't fun or exciting? Our TeamOut selection brings friendly competition to the table while elevating your virtual holiday gathering:
13. Holiday Movie Scene Recreation
Challenge your team's creativity and performance skills with this hilarious challenge to recreate famous holiday movie scenes. Working in small groups, participants select iconic moments from holiday movies, then perform their interpretation with available props and santa hats. The resulting performances create shared laughter and showcase unexpected talents.
🚀 Implementation Steps:
Prepare a list of well-known holiday movie scenes
Divide participants into teams of 3-5 using breakout rooms
Give teams 10-15 minutes to select a scene and prepare
Each team performs their scene for the whole group
Vote on categories like "most creative," "best acting," "most accurate"
🧰 Materials Required: List of suggested scenes with film clips for reference
⏱️ Time Requirement: 30-45 minutes
🔄 Difficulty Level: Medium
👥 Group Size: Best for 10-30 participants
🔄 Variations: Elevate your virtual office holiday party and focus on famous holiday movies like "Elf" or "Home Alone"; create a holiday movie trivia component; have teams guess which scene is being recreated.
14. Virtual Gingerbread House Contest
Transform your virtual holiday party with this traditional activity everyone knows and loves. Turn it into a competition by having participants build and decorate gingerbread houses from their remote locations. This hands-on activity provides a welcome break from screen-based interactions and creates a shared experience that celebrates creativity and holiday spirit.
🚀 Implementation Steps:
Send gingerbread house kits to participants in advance (or provide a shopping list)
Set a time limit for construction and decoration (30-45 minutes)
Have participants share their creations via video
Bring in "guest judges" from leadership or create peer voting categories
Award prizes for various categories (most creative, most architectural, most delicious-looking)
🧰 Materials Required: Gingerbread house kits or supplies for each participant
⏱️ Time Requirement: 45-60 minutes
🔄 Difficulty Level: Medium
👥 Group Size: Works for any size
🔄 Variations: Create themed challenges (futuristic gingerbread house, company headquarters); use alternative building materials; add storytelling elements to each house.
15. Holiday Costume Party and Contest
Bring festive visual energy to your virtual holiday party with a themed costume contest. Participants dress up in holiday-inspired outfits, from ugly Christmas sweaters to creative interpretations of holiday concepts.
🚀 Implementation Steps:
Announce the costume theme in advance
Create specific categories for competition (most festive, most creative, best use of household items)
Allow each participant 30 seconds to showcase their costume
Use polling features for voting or bring in guest judges
Award digital certificates or small prizes to winners
🧰 Materials Required: Costume elements (participant-provided)
⏱️ Time Requirement: 15-20 minutes
🔄 Difficulty Level: Easy
👥 Group Size: Works for any size
🔄 Variations: Here's a virtual holiday party idea: Create department themes; add a DIY element where costumes must be created from household items.
16. Holiday-Themed Pictionary
Adapt the classic drawing game for your virtual holiday party with seasonal themes and concepts. This activity promotes healthy competition while showcasing different communication styles and creative approaches within your team.
🚀 Implementation Steps:
Prepare a list of holiday-related words and phrases
Use a virtual whiteboard feature or dedicated platform like Drawasaurus
Divide into teams and establish a scoring system
Set time limits for each drawing (60-90 seconds)
Rotate through team members so everyone gets a chance to draw
🧰 Materials Required: Virtual whiteboard or drawing platform, prepared word list
⏱️ Time Requirement: 20-30 minutes
🔄 Difficulty Level: Easy
👥 Group Size: Best for 6-20 participants
🔄 Variations: For your holiday party, create categories of varying difficulty; implement "speed rounds" with shorter time limits; use holiday-themed questions for added challenge.
17. Holiday Bingo
Create an interactive experience that spans your entire virtual holiday party with a custom holiday bingo game. Distribute digital bingo cards featuring holiday-related items, encouraging participants to stay engaged throughout the event while creating moments of celebration.
🚀 Implementation Steps:
Create digital bingo cards with holiday-themed items and likely party occurrences
Distribute cards to participants before the event
Participants mark items as they occur naturally during the party
Establish a system for calling "Bingo!" (chat message, special reaction)
Award small prizes to winners throughout the event
🧰 Materials Required: Digital bingo card generator, distribution method
⏱️ Time Requirement: Ongoing throughout the event
🔄 Difficulty Level: Easy
👥 Group Size: Works for any size
🔄 Variations: For this virtual holiday party game, create company-specific items; include interactive challenges to complete squares.
18. Naughty or Nice Holiday Joke Contest
Bring laughter to your virtual holiday party with a joke-telling competition featuring holiday-themed humor. This activity showcases personality and creates shared moments of joy while requiring minimal preparation from team members.
🚀 Implementation Steps:
Ask participants to prepare a holiday-appropriate joke in advance
Establish categories (puns, dad jokes, naughty Christmas jokes, etc.)
Set a time limit for each joke (30-60 seconds)
Use reaction buttons or chat responses to gauge audience response
Award prizes for different categories (funniest, most creative)
🧰 Materials Required: Optional joke prompt list for inspiration
⏱️ Time Requirement: 15-20 minutes
🔄 Difficulty Level: Easy
👥 Group Size: Works for any size, though consider breakout rooms for very large groups
🔄 Variations: Create themed rounds (winter puns, Santa jokes); implement a "joke-off" tournament structure; add a challenge where jokes must incorporate company terms.
19. Virtual Secret Santa
Adapt the popular holiday tradition of Secret Santa to your virtual Christmas party! Create anticipation and personalized gift-giving that extend the holiday spirit beyond the virtual event itself.
🚀 Implementation Steps:
Use a digital Secret Santa generator to assign gift recipients
Set a reasonable budget and shipping deadline
Create a shared wishlist where participants can provide gift ideas
During the party, take turns opening gifts on camera
Have participants guess who their Secret Santa was
⏱️ Time Requirement: 30-45 minutes during the party (plus preparation)
🔄 Difficulty Level: Medium
👥 Group Size: Best for 5-30 participants
🔄 Variations: On virtual Secret Santa, focus on handmade or locally sourced gifts; create themed gift categories; add a charitable component where gifts are matched with donations.
Virtual Gift Exchanges
Virtual Gift Exchanges help team members showcase their appreciation for their colleagues and organization. Perfect for a virtual office holiday party or virtual Christmas party, these exchanges combine traditions with fun games without the hassle of managing all the logistics of an in-person gift swap.
20. Digital Gift Exchange
Create a thoughtful exchange experience without physical items by having participants prepare and share digital gifts that reflect personal interests and connections. This activity fosters creativity and thoughtfulness while eliminating shipping logistics and costs.
🚀 Implementation Steps:
Assign gift partners randomly in advance
Provide guidelines for digital gift creation (playlists, e-books, online classes)
Set a "value" limit through time investment rather than money
During the party, take turns presenting and explaining digital gifts
Allow time for recipient reactions and thanks
🧰 Materials Required: Digital gift assignment system, video conference platform (Zoom)
⏱️ Time Requirement: 30-45 minutes
🔄 Difficulty Level: Medium
👥 Group Size: Best for 6-20 participants
🔄 Variations: For this holiday team-building activity, focus on personalized digital art or media; implement a "gift chain" where each person creates something for the next person in line.
21. Holiday Recipe Exchange
Celebrate culinary traditions by organizing a virtual recipe exchange focused on holiday favorites. This activity connects participants through food experiences while creating a collective resource.
🚀 Implementation Steps:
Ask participants to submit a favorite holiday recipe in advance (holiday cookies, for example)
Compile submissions into a digital cookbook with contributor names
During the party, feature selected recipes with brief stories from contributors
Distribute the complete cookbook as a takeaway gift
Consider having participants prepare one recipe to enjoy during the event
🧰 Materials Required: Recipe collection method, digital publishing tool
⏱️ Time Requirement: 20-30 minutes during the party (plus preparation)
🔄 Difficulty Level: Easy
👥 Group Size: Works for any size
🔄 Variations: This is an excellent activity to implement on your virtual Christmas party. Focus on categories like holiday cookies or festive drinks; create themed collections (international holidays, family traditions); add a cooking demonstration component.
22. Skill Share Exchange
This is a fantastic virtual holiday party idea! Transform your event into a learning experience by having team members exchange brief lessons on personal skills or interests. This activity highlights hidden talents while creating value through knowledge sharing.
🚀 Implementation Steps:
Ask participants to prepare a 3-5 minute lesson on a skill or hobby
Create a schedule with clear time slots for each presenter
Provide basic guidelines for effective virtual teaching
Allow brief Q&A after each presentation
Record sessions (with permission) to create a team learning library
⏱️ Time Requirement: 45-60 minutes (depends on group size)
🔄 Difficulty Level: Medium
👥 Group Size: Best for 5-15 participants
🔄 Variations: Create themed categories (creative skills, productivity hacks); add follow-up challenges where participants try each other's skills; focus specifically on holiday-related skills.
23. Virtual Book Exchange
Foster intellectual connection and ongoing engagement by organizing a virtual book exchange focused on favorite reads or holiday-themed literature. This activity sparks conversation while providing participants with new reading material for the holiday season.
🚀 Implementation Steps:
Participants select a book they'd recommend and prepare a brief pitch
Create random pairings for exchange partners
During the event, each person presents their book recommendation
After the party, participants purchase and send their recommended book to their partner
Schedule a follow-up discussion after everyone has received and read their books
🧰 Materials Required: Book exchange pairing system, participant addresses
⏱️ Time Requirement: 30 minutes during the party (plus follow-up)
🔄 Difficulty Level: Easy
👥 Group Size: Best for 6-20 participants
🔄 Variations: Focus on specific genres or themes; create a digital-only version with e-books; implement a "blind date with a book" approach where books are described without titles.
24. Gratitude Gift Circle
Create an emotionally meaningful exchange by facilitating a Gratitude Gift Circle, showing recognition among team members. This activity builds psychological safety and strengthens relationships while requiring no material resources and can be easily implemented as a virtual holiday party idea.
🚀 Implementation Steps:
Arrange participants in a virtual circle with a clear sequence
Each person prepares a specific appreciation statement for the next person in the circle
During the event, participants take turns sharing their gratitude "gift"
Allow brief responses from recipients
Consider recording (with permission) and creating a compilation video
🧰 Materials Required: None, though a shared document with the speaking order helps
⏱️ Time Requirement: 20-30 minutes
🔄 Difficulty Level: Easy
👥 Group Size: Best for 5-15 participants; use breakout rooms for larger groups
🔄 Variations: Focus specifically on professional contributions; create themed appreciation categories; implement a written version with digital cards.
Entertainment Team-Building Options
Entertainment team-building options bring professional fun to your virtual holiday party, helping remote teams connect through holiday trivia, virtual games, or online holiday scavenger hunts. Perfect for Zoom or remote holiday parties, these activities keep everyone engaged.
25. Virtual Holiday Karaoke
Is there a better way to wish happy holidays than with a karaoke session? Transform your virtual holiday party into an interactive concert with a karaoke session. This activity showcases hidden talents while celebrating the festive musical traditions of the season.
🚀 Implementation Steps:
Select a virtual karaoke platform or create a YouTube playlist of karaoke tracks
Prepare a sign-up sheet for participants to select songs in advance
Establish clear audio settings to optimize the experience
Create a festive "stage" backdrop for performers
Consider both solo and group performance options
🧰 Materials Required: Karaoke platform or holiday music tracks, microphone (optional)
⏱️ Time Requirement: 30-45 minutes
🔄 Difficulty Level: Medium
👥 Group Size: Best for 8-25 participants
🔄 Variations: For your remote holiday party, create themed categories (classic carols, modern holiday hits); implement a "name that tune" component; add costume elements for performers.
26. Virtual Mixology Class
Elevate your virtual holiday party with a guided mixology session featuring festive cocktails and mocktails. This interactive activity creates a sensory experience while teaching practical skills that participants can use throughout the holiday season.
🚀 Implementation Steps:
Hire a professional mixologist or designate a skilled team member as an instructor
Distribute ingredient and equipment lists in advance
Select 2-3 holiday-themed drinks to create during the session
Ensure mocktail alternatives for non-drinkers
Build in time for questions and show off completed creations
🧰 Materials Required: Ingredients and bar tools (participant-provided), recipe cards
⏱️ Time Requirement: 30-45 minutes
🔄 Difficulty Level: Medium
👥 Group Size: Works for any size
🔄 Variations: For this virtual holiday party activity, create company-branded signature drinks; add a competition element for the best presentation; include food pairing suggestions for a complete holiday happy hour experience.
27. Virtual Comedy Show
Bring professional entertainment to your virtual holiday party by hiring a comedian to perform a customized set for your team. This activity creates an experience of joy and laughter while requiring minimal participation effort from attendees.
🚀 Implementation Steps:
Research and book a comedian experienced with virtual corporate events
Provide the performer with company context and appropriate content guidelines
Schedule a technical rehearsal before the event
Allocate 20-30 minutes for the performance
Consider adding a Q&A or interactive segment
🧰 Materials Required: Video conferencing platform with spotlight feature
⏱️ Time Requirement: 30-45 minutes
🔄 Difficulty Level: Easy (for participants)
👥 Group Size: Works for any size
🔄 Variations: Book a holiday-themed improv group; implement a comedy workshop component.
28. Virtual Holiday Concert
Organize a standout musical experience by arranging a live virtual performance from a professional musician or group. This is a great holiday party idea that brings high-quality entertainment to your virtual holiday party while creating a cultural experience for your team.
🚀 Implementation Steps:
Research and book musicians who specialize in virtual performances
Select a mix of familiar holiday music and original content
Arrange for proper audio setup and testing before the event
Consider a themed visual backdrop for the performance
Build in interactive elements like song requests or Q&A
🧰 Materials Required: Video conferencing platform with optimized audio settings
⏱️ Time Requirement: 30-45 minutes
🔄 Difficulty Level: Easy (for participants)
👥 Group Size: Works for any size
🔄 Variations: Ideal for your virtual Christmas party, feature multiple performers for variety; incorporate company-specific song parodies; add a sing-along component.
29. Interactive Mystery Game
Transform your virtual holiday party into an immersive experience with a professionally facilitated holiday-themed mystery game. This holiday party idea sparks engagement through storytelling and problem-solving while requiring minimal preparation from participants.
🚀 Implementation Steps:
Book a professional virtual mystery game provider
Select a holiday-themed scenario appropriate for your group
Distribute character information in advance if required
Allow 45-60 minutes for the complete experience
Consider prizes for the team that solves the mystery first
🧰 Materials Required: Access to the mystery game platform, optional costume elements
⏱️ Time Requirement: 45-60 minutes
🔄 Difficulty Level: Medium
👥 Group Size: Best for 10-40 participants
🔄 Variations: For your next holiday party, select different difficulty levels based on your team; create company-specific mystery scenarios; implement a multi-episode format across several events.
Food & Drink Activities
Food & Drink Activities are the component that's missing from your holiday party. These events are designed to create shared culinary experiences despite physical distance.
30. Virtual Cookie Decorating Contest
No memorable holiday meal is completed without Christmas cookies! Add this hands-on experience to your virtual party by organizing a synchronized cookie decorating session with some friendly competition.
🚀 Implementation Steps:
Send cookie decorating kits to participants or provide a shopping list
Demonstrate basic decorating techniques at the beginning
Set a time limit (15-20 minutes) for decoration
Have participants share their creations via video
Vote on various categories (most creative, most festive, most ambitious)
🧰 Materials Required: Sugar cookies, frosting, decorating supplies for each participant
⏱️ Time Requirement: 30-45 minutes
🔄 Difficulty Level: Easy
👥 Group Size: Works for any size
🔄 Variations: Elevate your holiday party and create a storytelling element where cookies represent holiday memories; implement a technical challenge with specific requirements; add a charitable component where participants decorate extra cookies for donation.
31. Virtual Wine Tasting
Elevate your virtual holiday party with a guided wine-tasting experience led by a professional sommelier. This sophisticated activity provides your team with a sensory experience while educating participants about wine appreciation and holiday food pairings.
🚀 Implementation Steps:
Hire a professional sommelier or wine educator
Select 3-4 wines that complement holiday meals
Arrange for wine delivery or provide a specific shopping list
Prepare tasting note templates for participants
Include food pairing suggestions for a complete experience
👥 Group Size: Works for any size, though best with 5-30 participants
🔄 Variations: By implementing this standout virtual holiday party idea, create non-alcoholic alternatives with specialty beverages; focus on regional holiday wines from around the world; implement a blind tasting challenge.
32. Hot Chocolate Bomb Workshop
Create a delicious hands-on experience by guiding participants through creating their hot chocolate bombs—a trendy holiday treat that combines crafting and culinary skills. This activity produces both an enjoyable process and a delightful result that participants can share with family.
🚀 Implementation Steps:
Send hot chocolate bomb kits to participants or provide detailed shopping lists
Arrange for an instructor to demonstrate techniques
Guide participants through each step of the creation process
🔄 Variations: Create themed decoration challenges; implement a competition for the most creative design; add flavor variations beyond traditional hot chocolate.
33. Virtual Cooking Class
Transform your virtual holiday party into an interactive culinary experience by arranging a professional-led cooking class featuring a festive holiday dish. This activity creates engagement through active participation while teaching practical skills participants can use throughout the holiday season.
🚀 Implementation Steps:
Hire a professional chef or cooking instructor
Select a holiday-appropriate recipe of suitable complexity
Distribute ingredient and equipment lists well in advance
Ensure the instructor can see participants for feedback
Build in time for questions and show completed dishes
🧰 Materials Required: Ingredients and cooking equipment (participant-provided), recipe cards
⏱️ Time Requirement: 60-90 minutes
🔄 Difficulty Level: Medium
👥 Group Size: Best for 5-25 participants
🔄 Variations: For this virtual holiday party idea, focus on international holiday traditions; create a menu of multiple simple items; implement a "mystery ingredient" challenge; add a competition element for the best presentation.
34. Holiday Mocktail Competition
Create an inclusive and creative beverage experience by challenging participants to design and mix original holiday-themed non-alcoholic drinks. This activity encourages innovation while ensuring everyone can participate regardless of alcohol preferences.
🚀 Implementation Steps:
Provide a list of suggested base ingredients and holiday flavors
Give participants 1-2 weeks to develop and test their recipes
During the party, each creator presents and demonstrates their mocktail
Others follow along to create the drink if they have ingredients
Vote on categories like most creative, best presentation, most festive
🧰 Materials Required: Participant-selected ingredients, recipe submission system
⏱️ Time Requirement: 30-45 minutes
🔄 Difficulty Level: Medium
👥 Group Size: Best for 5-15 participants; use voting representatives for larger groups
🔄 Variations: Create themed categories (winter spices, fruit-based, etc.); implement a "pantry challenge" with limited ingredients; compile recipes into a digital holiday mocktail book.
Meaningful Connection Events
These activities focus on fostering deeper relationships and authentic engagement during your virtual holiday party. Here is our selection:
35. Year in Review Celebration
Create a reflection experience by facilitating the sharing of team and individual accomplishments from the past year. This activity builds pride and connection while recognizing contributions that might otherwise go uncelebrated.
🚀 Implementation Steps:
Prepare a visual presentation highlighting key team achievements
Invite participants to submit personal and professional wins in advance
Create a balanced structure that recognizes various types of contributions
Include space for spontaneous sharing during the event
End with a forward-looking segment about the coming year
🧰 Materials Required: Presentation slides, contribution collection system
⏱️ Time Requirement: 30-45 minutes
🔄 Difficulty Level: Easy
👥 Group Size: Works for any size
🔄 Variations: On your virtual party, create themed categories for achievements; add a visualization component where achievements are represented graphically; include client or stakeholder testimonials.
36. Virtual Fireside Chat
Create an intimate atmosphere for conversation by organizing a casual discussion around thoughtful holiday-themed prompts. This activity fosters authentic connection while allowing participants to share at their comfort level.
🚀 Implementation Steps:
Create a set of 5-7 thoughtful discussion prompts
Set up a virtual "fireside" atmosphere with appropriate backgrounds
Establish clear sharing guidelines (optional participation, time limits)
Use breakout rooms for initial small group discussions
👥 Group Size: Best with breakout groups of 4-6 people
🔄 Variations: On your virtual party, focus on specific themes like gratitude or hopes for the new year; implement a "conversation menu" where groups choose their topics-
37. Holiday Hopes and Wishes
Create a meaningful closing activity by facilitating the sharing of personal hopes for the holiday season and the coming year. This reflective exercise builds connection through vulnerability while ending your virtual holiday party on an uplifting and forward-looking note.
🚀 Implementation Steps:
Prepare simple, thoughtful prompts about hopes and wishes
Give participants a few minutes to reflect and prepare thoughts
Establish a sharing format (popcorn style or structured order)
Create a psychologically safe environment with clear guidelines
Consider recording (with permission) key themes for future reference
🧰 Materials Required: Reflection prompts, optional virtual candles, or other symbolic elements
⏱️ Time Requirement: 15-20 minutes
🔄 Difficulty Level: Easy
👥 Group Size: Best for 5-20 participants; use breakout rooms for larger groups
🔄 Variations: For your Zoom holiday party, create a visual representation of hopes using a word cloud tool; add a follow-up component where wishes are revisited later in the year.
Creating Memorable Virtual Holiday Connections
As we've explored throughout this guide, virtual holiday parties have evolved into outstanding experiences that can genuinely strengthen team bonds and celebrate the holiday season. The key to success lies in thoughtful planning, appropriate activity selection, and creating space for connection.
Remember these essential takeaways as you plan your next virtual holiday event:
Mix activity types to engage different personalities and preferences
Balance structure and spontaneity to create comfort and surprise
Consider your team's specific culture when selecting activities
Prepare thoroughly to ensure technical elements run smoothly
Create opportunities for meaningful conversation alongside fun and games
Most importantly, remember that the purpose of your virtual holiday party extends beyond mere entertainment. These gatherings provide essential opportunities for cultural reinforcement and collective celebration.
By implementing the ideas in this guide, you'll create not just a successful event, but a standout experience that carries the holiday spirit into the new year. Happy planning, and happy holidays!
Thomas Mazimann, a French entrepreneur and former international kayaking athlete, transitioned from sports to tech after moving to the U.S. He co-founded TeamOut, revolutionizing team gatherings.
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