Christmas Office Parties Ideas that Rock

We have all been victim to the company parties that are predictable, uneventful, and just downright painful. Make sure your office party is not reminiscent of the scene from Office Space by trying these creative ideas fun for employees and their entire families.

Plan a Day Trip to the Mountains (or Park). Nothing makes a party quite like experiencing a new place or somewhere less often visited. Renting a cabin in a park or the mountains is a great way to have your guests enjoy themselves and bond with other co-workers. People also enjoy being in a natural environment. For an added touch of nature, decorate a fresh fir tree (either bring in the cabin or leave it in tact outside). Guests can even bring their own ornaments for the tree. Planning an office party in this location is also a good way to increase your chances that people will stay longer and mingle. Don't forget the campfire, barbeque, and gift exchange to make this gathering unforgettable.

Potluck Dinner at the Boss's House. Chances are you haven't visited the Boss's place much. What better way to get to know him or her better than by seeing a more personal side! Managers are always looking for ways to get to know their employees better and finding ways to create a more engaging environment. By having a potluck dinner, the cost of the party can be decreased (isn't everyone on a budget these days?) and guests can show off their fabulous cooking skills! There will be plenty of conversation at this awesome party, i.e. "I didn't know the Boss coached his son's little league team," and "Beth makes the greatest quesadillas!" For an added treat, have the Boss make desserts-employees will be more than pleased to find out about this "sweet" side.

Recreate the North Pole at the Office. Can't get away from the office for the party? Then revamp it by recreating a scene from your favorite holiday movie. With the help of artificial snow, reindeer, and piles and piles of gift boxes (made to look like they're full of toys), this party is sure to make even the most senior employee excited about the holidays again. Make this event even more fun by having the guests dress up in complementary costumes.

With great decorations, ice breakers, conversation, and food, employees will definitely be in a festive mood. These creative office parties will be the talk at the water cooler for months (maybe even years!) to come.