Holiday Party and Staff Appreciation Ideas

Now that we’re in the midst of fall, many of us have already begun thinking about the approaching holiday season. Typically, companies will start planning their annual holiday parties and staff appreciation events by mid-October, if not earlier. 

This year, employers are exploring alternative options to creatively connect and celebrate their team. The holiday season is often the only time of year that employers, employees, and volunteers get to come together as a group and celebrate professional achievements and milestones.

Brantford offers a number of exceptional venues, restaurants, and shops that are ready to help you with your holiday planning, as well as a number of fun outdoor experiences that allow your team to get together while also maintaining social distancing. This year, more than ever, we encourage companies and individuals to shop local.

Host A Virtual Holiday Party

Many workplaces have already adapted to virtual meetings, so why not host a virtual holiday party? Employers can provide employees with gift cards to local restaurants, breweries, and bakeries in advance so that they can create their own personalized menu to enjoy while gathering virtually. Instead of stressing about buying a new dress or suit for the event, make it a contest to wear your ugliest Christmas sweater or festive hat to flaunt on screen. Virtual holiday parties can still include the best part of the traditional gatherings – sips, food and gifts!

Secret Santa with Elfster.com

With Elfster.com you can easily create an online Secret Santa gift exchange for free! Add all of your employees or create several lists for individual departments. Individuals can also create a wish list of items to point their Secret Santa in the right direction. If you’re looking for safe bets for Secret Santa gifts, send a coworker some quintessential Brantford food and drink, like Belgian chocolates from Le Chocolat Du Savoie, or a new brew from Bell City Brewing Company or Mash Paddle Brewing Co.

Plan A Outdoor Experience

Encourage your employees to bundle up and plan an afternoon together in the fresh air for an unforgettable experience hiking, skiing, or snowshoeing along the Brantford to Hamilton Rail Trail. On your route, you can also stop to warm up and enjoy a guided tour of Her Royal Majesty’s Chapel of the Mohawks, located at the Brantford Jaycees trailhead. If you prefer a more leisurely stroll outdoors, you can grab the team some hot beverage from Blue Dog Café and check out Brantford Lights at Glenhyrst (no event details have been announced yet).