Remember the legendary workplace Christmas parties of yesteryear? Think extravagant affairs, overflowing booze, and stories that became office folklore (and sometimes, HR headaches!). Once upon a time, companies spent fortunes, creating spectacles that rewarded hard work with a touch of playful chaos.
But those days are largely gone. What killed the corporate bacchanal? A mix of factors: the ever-present eye of social media, the crucial #metoo movement, the pandemic’s impact, a tight cost-of-living crisis, and even the growing popularity of non-alcoholic drinks. Industry experts and veterans of the 80s, 90s, and 2000s party scenes agree – things have seriously toned down.
Today, companies are getting creative and responsible. Many are swapping lavish evening events for DIY office parties, relaxed daytime gatherings, or even family-friendly celebrations with a charity twist. Imagine a festival at an urban farm with games for kids and food trucks, like Port of Auckland did, donating leftover gifts and skipping the alcohol entirely. “When you remove alcohol from an event, it just changes the whole vibe,” notes event planner Colin Ennor.
Some businesses are even foregoing parties altogether, offering staff bonuses instead. Others prefer celebrating in the New Year, like tech company Hnry, focusing on team building and a fresh start rather than a Christmas-specific event. It’s about flexibility and inclusivity, recognizing that not everyone celebrates Christmas or wants to party hard.
The era of outrageous office antics, like a certain ice cream cone nearly hitting a Prime Minister, is largely a relic of the past. Social media holds everyone accountable, and a more empowered workforce, particularly women in leadership, simply isn’t tolerating bad behavior. The shift is clear: from wild extravagance to thoughtful, responsible, and often alcohol-free celebrations that truly reflect modern workplace values.
