When thinking about the traditional office Christmas party the image of too much mulled wine and a sore head the next morning spring to mind. However, times have changed, and some businesses are limiting or even turning away from offering alcohol altogether.
Recent data suggests that more than a fifth of 2024’s Christmas parties are set to be alcohol free1, with Gen Z in particular fuelling this trend, and reshaping the future of festive gatherings.
The health and lifestyle benefits of reducing alcohol consumption or abstaining altogether are well documented, from having more energy and saving money, to lowering blood pressure and maintaining a healthy weight. And, whilst it’s all down to personal preference, there are simple ways that bosses can support sober-curious employees, especially during the festive season.
If your business is ready to ditch the hangovers in favour of a more wholesome Christmas activity, here are 5 ideas for Christmas get-togethers in Yorkshire that don’t centre around alcohol:
1/ Wrap up warm and get out on the ice
A trip to an ice-skating rink goes hand in hand with feeling festive and definitely requires a clear head! Why not enjoy a few laps before grabbing a hot chocolate and a tasty mince pie. There are pop up rinks aplenty over the festive period, such as Yorkshire’s Winter Wonderland and Ice Cube Leeds, both of which offer plenty of après-skate activities that don’t need to be alcohol related.
2/ Cook up a storm at a group cookery class
Cooking or baking can be a great team building activity. The Cookery School at The Grand in York is offering classes on making festive canapes and Christmas lunch, whilst Leeds Cookery School offers a range of festive cook and dine packages, with profits going to Zest, a Leeds-based charity.
3/ Put your minds to the test at an escape room
Escape rooms are a fun teambuilding experience, with colleagues given a set amount of time to solve clues and puzzles to ‘escape’ and unlock the room. They’re widely available, with many offering Christmas-themed experiences.
4/ Get creative at a group art class
Whilst sip and paint classes are growing in popularity, you don’t need to indulge in the ‘sip’ element to get creative and have a good time. From life drawing classes to pottery painting and more, there’s a raft of creative ideas for everyone to get involved in, minus the booze.
5/ Opt for a ‘party’ with a purpose
Why not really shake things up this year and arrange for you and your teams to give back instead. Perhaps spend the day volunteering with one of your company’s chosen charities or seek out a local organisation that relies on help over the festive period. Lots of charities and food banks look for festive volunteers for present wrapping or serving Christmas dinners. Have a look in your local area for opportunities.
If you or someone in your team is worried about their alcohol consumption, it’s important to speak to a medical professional, starting with a GP. For more ways to look after the health and wellbeing of your employees and your business, visit sovereignhealthcare.co.uk/business/.
1 https://togather.com/blog/gen-z-sober-party-trends-this-christmas