How to Host a Virtual Holiday Party (Step-by-Step Guide)
Originally published on: November 30, 2022
Last updated on: November 7, 2025
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Even with distributed teams, the holiday season is an opportunity to celebrate accomplishments, strengthen relationships, and express appreciation. A virtual holiday party can feel festive, warm, and memorable with thoughtful structure, great hosting, and the right entertainment.
See the Virtual Entertainment Guide →
Step-by-Step: How to Host a Virtual Holiday Party
1. Choose Your Event Format
Select a structure that matches your group’s personality and size:
- Virtual Game Show / Trivia Party — high energy, great for all personalities
See Virtual Game Shows & Trivia - Virtual Magician or Mentalist — creates a memorable shared “wow” moment
See Virtual Magicians & Mentalists - Virtual Comedian or Variety Show — warm, uplifting, and great for morale
View Virtual Comedians - Virtual Dueling Pianos — festive, musical, and social
- Virtual Experience Kits — chocolate tasting, mixology, cookie kits
Browse Virtual Experience Kits - Virtual Escape Room or Murder Mystery — collaborative group play
Virtual Escape Room
Virtual Murder Mystery
2. Pick a Platform & Support
Zoom and Microsoft Teams are most common. Assign a co-host to spotlight performers, manage screens, and coordinate breakout rooms if used.
3. Add Interactive Elements
- Holiday trivia rounds
- Ugly sweater or festive background contest
- Live poll or “Most Likely To…” company awards
- Team breakout rooms for casual conversation
4. Include a Personal Touch
Sending something physical makes virtual feel real and shared.
- Hot cocoa or coffee tasting kits
- Chocolate flights
- Holiday cocktail/mocktail ingredients
- Cookie or gingerbread decorating kits
5. Keep It Short & Engaging
45–75 minutes is ideal to maintain energy without screen fatigue.
Sample Run-of-Show (60 Minutes)
| 0:00–0:05 | Welcome + warm-up led by a virtual emcee |
| 0:05–0:40 | Main entertainment (game show, magician, or comedian) |
| 0:40–0:55 | Contest / breakout rooms / awards |
| 0:55–1:00 | Group photo + holiday message |
Recommended Entertainment Providers
Virtual Game Shows & Trivia
Virtual Magicians & Mentalists
Virtual Comedians
Virtual Emcee Hosts
Interactive Experience Kits
Not sure what fits best? Browse all Virtual Corporate Entertainment or request personalized recommendations.
FAQs
How long should a virtual holiday party last?
45–75 minutes works best for engagement and enjoyment.
Do we need a professional host?
Yes — a host manages flow and keeps the energy fun and comfortable.
See Virtual Hosts & Emcees →
Can we customize games or comedy?
Absolutely — trivia questions, jokes, visuals, and shout-outs can be personalized.
