Ready for office holiday celebration? Remember to party 2020 style

The holiday season is upon us, but it just doesn't seem so festive this year. Many employees are still isolated as they work from home. Essential workers are in the workplace but worried about the risks they face by being there. A big party to relieve the stress of the COVID-19 pandemic certainly would be welcome—but difficult in the era of social distancing. Difficult doesn't mean impossible, however. Here are some ideas.

Virtual festivities

If work can go virtual, why not parties? There's no reason the annual office ugly sweater contest can't be conducted via Zoom, Skype, or any other video platform employees are set up to use.

A host of other activities also can go virtual. Vendors are marketing virtual games, team-building activities, and adventures that can accommodate hundreds of participants. Games such as virtual scavenger hunts, escape challenges, and trivia contests are among the activities offered. Vendors sometimes even offer games customized for the company throwing the party.

Some vendors offer facilitators to handle logistics and make sure everyone can get set up to participate. Event hosts from the vendor also keep the party going. Some events require an app, but others work without special software.

Just like with in-person celebrations, a virtual party should welcome people from all faiths and cultures, and employees should be assured attendance is voluntary.

Fun gifts to boost connection