It's time to think about the holidays: To party or not to party?

As fall settles in, it's time to think about the upcoming holiday season. But the continuing pandemic makes it hard to plan. Will it be safe to party in person this year? Is it OK for vaccinated coworkers to gather for food, drink, and other merriment? Perhaps an alternative activity such as the Zoom parties some organizations threw last year are more appropriate. Or maybe a nice gift basket delivered to employees' homes would be a better option.

Whatever revelry you choose—in person or not—you need to remember parties may not be all fun and games and risks need to be kept in mind.

Safety first

With the pandemic continuing, the annual office party may not be a traditional affair again this year. Last year, some employers opted for virtual festivities by linking up with vendors that developed virtual social and team-building activities created for the holiday season. That choice may be appropriate again.

Also, last year many employers decided against throwing any kind of party and instead focused on conveying their appreciation for employees by sending gift baskets or making charitable contributions to organizations focused on relief for those most affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Employers may want to do something similar again this year.

If virus transmission has eased in an employer's area and employees have been vaccinated, an outdoor event might be an option to consider. An open-air venue that includes outdoor heaters and/or fire pits may be feasible.