by Dr. Laurie Cure, CEO of Innovative Connections
As the holidays approach, many organizations plan parties and year-end gatherings to celebrate accomplishments and express gratitude. These events are often viewed as a welcome break from routine, but they can also serve a deeper purpose. When thoughtfully designed, holiday celebrations can strengthen relationships, reinforce values, and build a more connected, resilient team.
Leaders who see these moments as extensions of their culture work intentionally to create experiences that are both joyful and meaningful. The goal is not to replace the fun with structure, but to layer intention into celebration.
When well done, these moments remind employees that belonging and performance are not separate goals, but two sides of the same human experience at work.
Focus on connection, not performance
Holiday parties often center on entertainment or rewards. While recognition matters, genuine connection creates a more lasting impact. Simple, shared experiences, such as storytelling circles, gratitude boards, or small group reflection, encourage people to express appreciation and learn more about one another.
Research on psychological safety shows that when employees feel seen and valued, collaboration and trust naturally increase. A well-planned event can model safety by providing space for inclusion and conversation, rather than competition or comparison.
Connection is not about orchestrated bonding; it’s about creating moments where people can exhale, share, and feel understood.
Choose activities that feel natural
Forced fun quickly turns a celebration into an obligation. Activities that honor diverse personalities and comfort levels are more effective. Instead of elaborate games, try collaborative activities such as decorating spaces together, creating a shared playlist, or volunteering as a team for a local cause.
The best events meet people where they are. Some enjoy social interaction; others prefer quieter engagement. Offering options allows everyone to participate in a way that feels authentic.
This inclusivity is what transforms a gathering from simply enjoyable to truly restorative for the team.
Include remote and hybrid employees thoughtfully
For distributed teams, inclusion requires creativity. Consider mailing small “celebration kits” that employees can open together on a video call, hosting online trivia or shared playlists, or sending handwritten notes of appreciation from leadership. The format matters less than the message: belonging extends beyond physical presence.
Research on remote engagement consistently shows that emotional connection is the strongest predictor of retention and satisfaction. Even small gestures (like a shared toast or virtual recognition moment) can bridge distance.
Use the event to reinforce values
Every organizational gathering communicates culture, whether intentionally or not. Leaders can use holiday events to highlight what their teams stand for. If your culture emphasizes learning, incorporate a reflective activity on lessons from the year. If community service is a core value, integrate a donation drive or group volunteering.
Celebrations become powerful when they connect purpose to people. They remind employees that their daily work contributes to something larger. Aligning celebration and purpose not only builds pride but also fosters unity heading into the new year.
Lead with appreciation
Perhaps the most important element of any holiday event is authentic gratitude. Employees want to know that their efforts matter. Rather than relying solely on generic speeches, consider specific acknowledgments (team highlights, shared wins, or stories that show growth).
Appreciation fosters accountability and engagement more effectively than any policy or incentive. Leaders who express it sincerely set the tone for the year ahead.
A season of intentional joy
The best celebrations combine warmth and wisdom. They remind us that culture is built not only in meetings and strategy sessions but also in how we gather, laugh, and recognize one another.
When planned with care, a holiday party becomes more than a social event. It becomes a shared experience of trust, gratitude, and renewal. A foundation that strengthens teams long after the decorations come down.
And in a season defined by reflection, the most successful leaders are those who recognize that joy itself can be a strategic act of leadership.
Dr. Laurie Cure, CEO of Innovative Connections is dedicated to helping clients achieve organizational success by enabling them to discover and release their human potential. She brings a unique ability to build deep and trusting relationships, which enables her to help clients achieve meaningful results. As an executive coach, she is passionate about personal development and supports others on their journey toward growth.
