45 Work Christmas Party Ideas in Australia (To End The Year Strong)

Are you ready to end the year strong and celebrate the holiday season with your coworkers? Look no further! Pinot & Picasso has got you covered with 45 best work Christmas party ideas that will have your office buzzing with festive cheer.

Leave the days of boring office Christmas parties with stale eggnog and awkward small talk behind. With our fun and creative ideas, you’ll be the office hero and the talk of the water cooler for weeks to come. No matter your field, these ideas are sure to bring festive cheer to your workplace.

So put on your Santa hats and get ready to jingle all the way to the best office Christmas party yet. Let Pinot & Picasso help you end the year on a high note and make lasting memories with your colleagues.

TL;DR: 45 Work Christmas Party Ideas

1. Book a paint and sipping experience
2. Create a christmas candy bar/cookie bar at work
3. Book in a christmas art workshop
4. Craft your own DIY christmas gifts
5. Learn how to cook with a Christmas cooking class
6. Enjoy the festivities with Christmas Cocktails
7. Set up a Silent Disco and party with your co-workers
8. Play Christmas charades
9. Work on your team building with an Escape Room
10. Enjoy with some end-of-year fun at a Theme Park
11. Dine at a High-Tea venue
12. Hit up a local Comedy Club
13. Take the crew Bowling
14. Sing your hearts out at Karaoke
15. Party at sea on a Party Boat
16. Set up an inflatable water park
17. Plan a fancy dress up party
18. Cool down with a Pool Party
19. Hit up a Rooftop Bar
20. Plan a BBQ and hire a local Cocktail Bartender
21. Get competitive with Game Night
22. Have a Movie Marathon of all Genres
23. Watch a Theatre show
24. Shoot each other with Paintballs
25. Learn about your co-workers with Secret Santa
26. Have a chill night with Bonfires and toasted marshmallows
27. Plan a night of dinners at different co-workers houses
28. Take the team out to Horse Riding
29. Visit a local brewery
30. Sooth your teams sweet tooth at a Dessert Bar
31. Party at an AirBNB
32. Sip wine and eat cheese
33. Compete fiercely at Mini Putt Putt
34. Up the stakes with Casino Night
35. Find glory at Laser Tag
36. Plan Holiday Bingo with Prizes
37. Have a tree-decorating competition
38. Gingerbread wars
39. Hire a local live band
40. Bring all the pets, and have a pet party
41. Play Murder Mystery at a Murder-Mystery themed party
42. Have Christmas from all around the world
43. Set up a photo booth with lots of gimmicks
44. Take the team Whale Watching
45. Battle at a VR arena

1. Book a paint and sip experience

Looking for a unique office party idea that will bring out everyone’s creative side? Book a paint and sipping experience with Pinot & Picasso! Our talented and fun artists will guide you step-by-step as you and the team bask in one another’s company with a little help from your BYO beverages – alcoholic or non-alcoholic, the choice is yours.

2. Create a Christmas candy bar/cookie bar at work

Add some extra sweetness to your office Christmas party with a Christmas candy bar or cookie bar! Set up a table filled with delicious treats and let your team indulge in some festive fun. It’s a great way to boost morale and show your appreciation for all their hard work throughout the year.

3. Book in a Christmas art workshop

Looking for a more hands-on approach to your office party? Book in a Christmas art workshop. Pinot & Picasso offers a range of festive workshops. Stay tuned for our 2023 Christmas release! It’s a great way to get into the holiday spirit and let your creative juices run wild.

4. Craft your own DIY Christmas gifts

Team bonding happens most when we get creative. Crafting your own DIY Christmas gifts is the perfect way to not only bring everyone together but a cheaper option for Christmas gifting this year. From homemade candles to personalised ornaments, there are endless possibilities for thoughtful and unique gifts that your coworkers will cherish.

5. Learn how to cook with a Christmas cooking class

Notorious lunch buyers, this ones for you! Laugh as you learn the ins and outs of cooking delicious meals with your co-workers. It’s a great way to bond and may come in handy when you’re asking to bring a plate to Christmas lunch this year.

6. Enjoy the festivities with Christmas cocktails

Spread the holiday cheer with some Christmas cocktails! Whether you’re looking for classic eggnog, or a festive twist on a martini with candy canes on top, there are endless options for delicious and festive drinks that will make your office Christmas party extra special.

7. Set up a silent disco and party with your co-workers

Get the party started with a silent disco and dance the night away with your co-workers! It’s a unique and interactive way to celebrate the holiday season and let loose at your work party. Hook up some of your own music to dance along to and hope no one takes their headphones off to hear your terrible singing.

8. Play Christmas charades

Charades is a great idea as it’s a classic and fun game that never gets old and is sure to bring out everyone’s competitive spirit. Team up with that coworker you want to get to know better to learn all about them! 

9. Work on your team building with an escape room

Escape rooms are a great way to bring the team together. Encourage employees to pair up with different departments and watch as their problem-solving skills are put to the test. It’s a great way to bond with your coworkers and work together to solve a fun and challenging puzzle. The increasing popularity of escape rooms means it should be easy to find one in your local area. 

10. Enjoy with some end-of-year fun at a Theme Park

End the year on a high note with some end-of-year fun at a theme park! From Luna Park to Wet ‘n’ Wild, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. It’s a great way to reward your team for all their hard work and create lasting memories together. 

11. Dine at a high-tea venue

High-tea is a sophisticated annual party that beats a wine tasting tour any day. Indulge in delicious, classy food and sip on tea as you celebrate Christmas high-tea style. No matter your workplace, an end-of-year high tea party will be a much-loved treat. 

12. Hit up a local comedy club

Bring on the laughs with a night out at a local comedy club! It’s a fun and lighthearted way to bond with your team and forget about the stresses of work. Plus, who doesn’t love a good belly laugh? If you’re really feeling adventurous, you could even head out to an open mic night! 

13. Take the crew bowling

Strike out the boring office Christmas party and take your team bowling! It’s a classic activity that’s always a hit, and who knows – you might even uncover some secret bowling talents among your coworkers. Just be prepared for some friendly competition and maybe a few gutter balls (no judgement).

14. Sing your hearts out at karaoke

Get ready to sing your hearts out at a karaoke party! It’s a great way to let loose and have some fun with your team. Make sure to play tunes everyone knows and watch out for those that are lip syncing – that’s cheating! Supply food and beverages to keep the energy high.

15. Party at sea on a party boat

Take your office party to the next level by partying at sea on a boat! It’s a unique and unforgettable way to celebrate the holiday season with your team. Most of Australia’s major cities have access to stunning bodies of water for your crew to have a great time exploring.  Just don’t forget the sunscreen – nobody wants to spend the rest of the year with a painful sunburn.  

16. Set up an inflatable water park

If you’re looking for a  fun way to cool off during the hot summer months, why not set up an inflatable water park? It’s a great way to beat the heat and have some fun with your team. This is a perfect choice for a smaller team!

17. Plan a fancy dress up party

Looking for ways to make your office Christmas party unforgettable? Well, how about you put on your best costumes and host a fancy dress party? Just make sure everyone is aware that “ugly sweater” is not an option.  You want to look good, not like you got lost on our way to a thrift store!

18. Cool down with a pool party

Plan a pool party for your team! Get ready to lounge on some festive pool floats and enjoy some cool drinks while soaking up the sun with your favourite coworkers.

19. Hit up a rooftop bar

Picture this; the sun is setting over your city as you sip of an aperol spritz with your favourite co workers in celebration of the year that was. Hit up a roof top bar for this year’s work Christmas party and bring your vision to life with laughs, drinks and music.

20. Plan a BBQ and hire a local cocktail bartender

For a more laid-back and classic option, host a BBQ and hire a local cocktail bartender to shake things up…literally. Add decorations to the yard and organise some fun activities to play.

21. Get competitive with game night

A games night is a classic way to have some fun with your colleagues while also getting in some friendly competition. Bring in some classic board games like Monopoly or Clue, or try out some newer games like Cards Against Humanity or Settlers of Catan. Encourage your team to bring in their own games to see what they love to play. Not only is game night a fun way to bond with your team, it’s also a great stress-reliever after a long year at the office.

22. Have a Christmas movie marathon

There’s nothing quite like a movie marathon to get everyone in the Christmas spirit. Dim the lights, set up a projector screen and settle in for a day of classic holiday films, Christmas movie marathon. Make sure to provide movie snacks like popcorn and choc tops to get the atmosphere going.

23. Watch a theatre show

Get dressed up and head to a local theatre to enjoy a live performance with your coworkers. It’s a great way to support local artists while also experiencing the magic of live theatre. Make a night of it by grabbing dinner beforehand, or drinks and dessert afterwards. From Hobart’s Theatre Royal all the way up to the Sydney Opera House, your colleagues will love drinking in the atmosphere of an iconic venue.

24. Shoot each other with paintballs

Paintballing is a fun way to let off some steam and bond with your coworkers. Divide into teams and strategize together to come out victorious. It’s a great team-building exercise that will leave everyone feeling energised and excited.

25. Learn about your co-workers with Secret Santa

Secret Santa is a classic way to show your appreciation for your colleagues while also learning about their interests and hobbies. Set a budget, draw names, and exchange gifts at your office Christmas party.

26. Have a chill night with bonfires and toasted marshmallows

Gather around a bonfire and enjoy some hot chocolate, s’mores, and good company. It’s a great way to unwind and relax with your coworkers, and the warmth of the fire is perfect for chilly nights. Get out into nature with your colleagues for some nostalgic fun.  

27. Plan a night of dinners at different co-workers houses

Get to know your co-workers better by having a progressive dinner party. Start at one person’s house for an entreé, then move on to the next for the main course, and finish at another’s house for dessert. It’s a fun way to explore different neighbourhoods and cuisines while also bonding with your team.

28. Take the team out to horse riding

Horse riding is a great way to get outdoors and enjoy nature. Whether it’s a leisurely trail ride or a more advanced lesson, everyone will have a great time and make some unforgettable memories. Plus, it’s perfect for getting some exercise and fresh air.

29. Visit a local brewery

Take your holiday party out of the office and into the brewery. Bottoms up as you work your way through the tasting panels and lose control on your legs. It’s a great opportunity to support local businesses, learn something new and celebrate the best time of year. With options like Brisbane’s Felons Brewing and BentSpoke in Canberra, your choices for a thirst-quenching beverage are limitless.

30. Sooth your team’s sweet tooth at a dessert bar

Indulge in some sugary goodness at a dessert bar. Whether you’re into cakes or ice cream, there’s something for everyone. It’s a great way to unwind and satisfy your cravings after a long, hard year. Australia is home to a collection of incredible dessert bars, like Sydney’s Koi and Melbourne’s Nibbles. There are even incredible vegan-friendly options like Adelaide’s Eggless Dessert Cafe.

31. Party at an AirBNB

Book an AirBNB for a night and throw a holiday work party your team won’t forget (or maybe they will…depending on how much they have to drink!). Enjoy the privacy and comfort of your own space while bonding with your coworkers. Australia is home to about 100,000 AirBNBs, so no matter where you are there’s amazing lodging available. From serene natural hideaways to epic urban properties, check out an Aussie AirBNB for your workplace Christmas party.

32. Sip wine and eat cheese

Take a break from the office and enjoy a sophisticated evening by sipping on some fine wine and indulging in a cheese platter. It’s a classy way to unwind and relax after a busy year.

33. Compete fiercely at mini putt putt

Get your competitive juices flowing and take on your coworkers at mini putt-putt. It’s a fun and lighthearted way to bond with your team and release some stress. Make it a Christmas theme by wearing Santa hats for a little extra fun.

34. Up the stakes with casino night

All on black! If your team is up for some high-stakes fun, plan a casino night. Set up a roulette table or a poker game, and let the good times roll. It’s a great opportunity to let loose and try your luck. 

35. Find glory at laser tag

Take your team out for a heart-pumping adventure by playing laser tag. It’s fun, active and competitive so prepare for some bragging winners and sore losers.

36. Plan holiday bingo with prizes

Put a festive spin on a classic game and plan a holiday bingo night. Have big prizes for the winners and watch your team battle it out. Playing games is a great way to improve relationships within your team and have a laugh.

37. Have a tree-decorating competition

Christmas parties do not always need to involve alcohol. Why not have a wholesome tree-decorating competition? Let your team’s creativity shine and see who can create the most impressive design.

38. Gingerbread wars

Put your team’s baking skills to the test and plan a gingerbread wars competition. Let your coworkers showcase their creativity by decorating gingerbread houses, and have a panel of judges decide which creation is best. 

39. Hire a local live band

Turn up the volume and plan a night of live music with your team. Hire a local band to play some upbeat tunes and let loose on the dance floor. It’s a great way to unwind and enjoy some live entertainment while supporting talented local artists.

40. Bring all the pets, and have a pet party

Show off your furry friends and plan a pet party for your team. Bring in some treats and toys, and let your coworkers bond with each other’s pets. It’s a fun and unique way to get to know your coworkers on a personal level.

41. Play murder mystery at a murder-mystery themed party

Put on your detective hats and get ready to solve a murder mystery with your team! It’s a great way to test your teamwork and problem-solving skills, while also having a blast dressing up in character and playing out the mystery. Just be sure to have a good script and plenty of clues to keep everyone engaged.

42. Have a global Christmas celebration

Explore different cultures and their holiday traditions with a themed Christmas party that celebrates Christmas from all around the world. From Scandinavian yuletide feasts to Mexican Posadas, there’s a world of holiday traditions to discover and enjoy. So, let your team get creative and prepare for a global Christmas celebration.

43. Set up a photo booth with lots of gimmicks

Capture the memories of your office Christmas party with a photo booth! Set up a themed photo booth area with plenty of fun props and gimmicks to take silly and memorable photos with your team. It’s the perfect way to remember a special Christmas party. 

44. Take the team whale watching

Take a break from the office and experience the beauty of nature with a whale-watching excursion. It’s a great way to bond with your team and see some amazing Australian marine life up close. Bring along your cameras to capture the majesty of humpbacks, Southern Rights and maybe even some killer whales.

45. Battle at a VR arena

Take gaming to the next level with a virtual reality (VR) battle at a VR arcade. It’s a great way to get your team’s competitive spirits up while also experiencing the latest in gaming technology. From sci-fi battles to sports games, there’s a wide range of VR games to choose from to suit your team’s interests. Just be sure to have enough time for everyone to have a go and maybe even offer a prize for the highest score.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do for Christmas at work?

If you’re looking for ideas for Christmas at work, there are many fun and creative options to consider. Some popular options include booking a paint and sip experience, organising a Christmas-themed art workshop, planning a team building activity like an escape room, or even setting up a pool party or rooftop bar event.

What can I do instead of an office Christmas party?

After an alternative to the boring old office Christmas party? There are plenty of options to consider.Some ideas include hosting a movie marathon, planning a game night or mini-golf competition, organising a dessert bar or wine and cheese tasting, or even taking a whale watching or horse riding tour.

How much should I spend on a work Christmas party?

When it comes to budgeting for a work Christmas party, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. It ultimately depends on your company’s budget and the type of event you are planning. Generally, it’s a good idea to set a budget per person and work within that framework to ensure everyone has a good time without breaking the bank.

How do you make a staff party fun?

To make a staff party fun, it’s important to consider the interests and preferences of your team. Plan activities that will appeal to everyone, and consider adding some fun elements like photo booths or themed decorations. Above all, make sure everyone feels included and has a chance to let loose and enjoy themselves.

Conclusion

As we approach the end of the year, it’s time to start planning the perfect Christmas party for your team. Whether you’re a corporate office or a small hospitality business, there are plenty of fun and exciting options to choose from.

From paint and sip experiences to horse riding, high tea to murder mystery parties, there’s something for everyone. So get creative and start planning a party that your team will never forget.

Remember, the key to a successful office Christmas party is to make sure everyone feels included and has a great time. Be sure to keep your team’s interests and preferences in mind when selecting your activities.

And don’t forget, it’s not just about the event itself, it’s also about building strong relationships with your team members. Use this opportunity to bond, connect and have fun with your colleagues outside of the usual work environment.

For some relaxed and productive workplace fun…book your next Christmas Party with Pinot and Picasso today!