How to Make the Festive Season More Inclusive

Many of us look forward to the decadence and downtime that the winter holiday season brings – but a lack of foresight in the workplace can make it feel alienating.

As workplace culture continues to shift, it’s clear that not everyone is looking for the same kind of celebration. Fewer people want the late-night, alcohol-fuelled parties that once defined the season and there’s growing recognition that “one size fits all” doesn’t work when it comes to festive traditions. But that doesn’t mean foregoing fun. In fact, there are countless ways to make this time feel inclusive and enjoyable for everyone.

With a number of cultural celebrations taking place in winter, Employment Bill reforms and recent updates to workplace legislation changing how employers approach social events, it’s worth considering what you can do to make this season as inclusive as possible. Here are ten ways to start:

1. Rethink the format

   Not everyone celebrates Christmas, drinks alcohol or wants to spend their evening at a big group event. Offering alternatives, from daytime gatherings to volunteering activities, helps make celebrations feel more accessible. In 2023, for example, sustainable water company Belu swapped its traditional Christmas party for a scavenger-hunt-style event.

2. Mix up the menu

   Food and drink are central to many festive traditions, but not everyone eats or drinks the same things. Make sure there are non-alcoholic options, as well as dishes that cater to various dietary requirements without making anyone feel like an afterthought.

3. Be mindful of timing

   December can be packed with deadlines, family commitments and annual leave requests. Offering flexibility with hours or attendance for festive events can ease the pressure and make participation easier.

4. Offer choice and variety

   Instead of focusing on late-night socialising, consider event types that reflect broader preferences such as virtual game evenings, outdoor winter walks, mini workshops and surveying your wider team about what they want too. These options reflect trends among younger employees who increasingly favour smaller, activity-based gatherings over big boozy parties.

5. Focus on recognition, not just revelry

   A sincere thank-you, an extra day off or a small bonus can go further than a lavish party. The goal should be connection and recognition, not just tradition.

6. Consider your space

   If you’re hosting an event, think about accessibility, sensory needs and comfort. An open-plan bar might work for some, but a calm, accessible venue with breakout areas might help others feel included too.

7. Keep communication clear

   Set expectations early about what’s happening, what’s optional and what support is available. Clear communication helps prevent awkwardness or confusion later.

8. Reflect your team’s diversity

   Decorations, playlists and activities can easily lean in one direction. Small touches, from multilingual greetings to neutral winter themes and inclusive imagery, show thought and awareness.

9. Encourage connection year-round

   Inclusivity isn’t just for December. Use this period as a reminder to build a workplace culture that values different perspectives all year long.

10. Lead by example

    Senior staff set the tone. When leaders show respect for boundaries, participate thoughtfully and model inclusive behaviour, it sends a message that everyone belongs.

A bit of consideration now can make a big difference later. Approaching the holidays with empathy and inclusion in mind helps create a workplace that feels welcoming year-round, one that celebrates people as much as the season itself.