Greetings from sunny Barcelona! ☀️
First a heartfelt thank-you for responses to last week’s newsletter, 10 Life-Changing Lessons on Celebrating Life. 💛 You reminded me why I write The Quest – to help us create experiences that bring people together in meaningful ways. ✨
Let’s talk about ending the year on a high note with a memorable virtual holiday celebration.
Think it’s too late to plan something great? Think again. 🚀
If you’re feeling the pressure to create something meaningful for your remote team, virtual class, or online community, let me reassure you: you’ve got this!
I know what you’re thinking. Another Zoom party – really? Is this going to feel awkward?
Not if you do it right.
Crafting a virtual celebration doesn’t have to be cringy or time-consuming.
The trick is to keep it simple, intentional and tailored to your group.
Why bother with a virtual celebration at all?
Because it’s more than just a party. It’s your chance to:
✅ Reflect on shared achievements.
✅ Build deeper connections.
✅ End the year on a high note.
So, if you’re ready to bring a little holiday magic to your group, here’s a no-fuss guide to help you pull it off—with tried and tested ideas that actually work.
⭐️Your No-Fuss Virtual Celebration Guide
Read on for 8 essential elements to help you create a meaningful – and magical – end-of-year celebration.
Quick disclaimer: These are ideas that have worked for my groups. I encourage you to tweak and adapt them to fit the unique needs and vibe of your group.
1️⃣ 🎵 Kick off with music.
Start with a song that sets a celebratory tone.
Pro-tip: ask your group for their favorite holiday or celebration songs ahead of time and create a shared playlist.
2️⃣ ✨ Warm up with a light activity.
Ease everyone into the mood with something fun but low-pressure.
- Chat prompt: “One thing you are celebrating from 2024 (in work or life)
- Word cloud: “Sum up your 2024 in one word.”
- Poll: I like this one from Gatheround👇
3️⃣ 🤝 Connect in small groups.
Breakout rooms are where real magic happens. And they are often the thing that people remember most.
Prompt ideas:
- What’s a holiday ritual you love and why?
- What’s one thing you learned in 2024 that impacted you?
- What’s one thing that surprised you in 2024?
Pro Tip: Start with 3-4 minutes of silent writing time with relaxing music before breakouts. It helps everyone – especially introverts – gather their thoughts.
4️⃣ 🌟 Share in the big group.
Reconvene to share stories and takeaways from breakouts. This builds connection and a sense of community.
Questions to ask:
- What struck you in your breakout group?
- What commonalities or differences stood out in your group?
- What are your takeaways?
5️⃣ 🙌 Celebrate achievements.
Reflecting on wins sparks pride, gratitude, and shines a light on everyone’s impact.
- What’s one accomplishment you’re proud of from 2024?
- Name colleague you’d like to shout out and why.
- Share a photo of fun or memorable moment from the year.
6️⃣ 👀 Look ahead.
Setting intentions together fuels hope, optimism and energizes goals.
- What’s one thing you want more (and less) of in 2025?
- What’s your theme word for 2025?
- What’s one wish you have for the year ahead?
7️⃣ 🥂 Raise a toast.
Whether with a cup of coffee, tea, or something bubbly, toasting together celebrates what makes the group unique and deepens bonds.
- Chat prompt: “What’s one thing would you like to toast to in this group.”
- Word cloud: “One word – something you’re grateful to this group for.”
- Turn on your mics and cameras and say “cheers” like you would with close friends.
8️⃣ 📸 Take a group photo.
Don’t skip the screenshot! It’s a fun keepsake and a great way to mark the moment.
Here’s a screenshot from our extended family’s virtual Christmas party last year: 😅
Need a Shortcut? Try This Mini Celebration Plan👇
If you’re pressed for time, here’s a 20-minute celebration:
1️⃣ 🎵Start with a song.
2️⃣ 💪Share one thing you’re proud of this year.
3️⃣ 🥂Raise a toast.
4️⃣ 📸Snap a group photo.
Simple, heartfelt, and memorable.
Remember, a virtual celebration doesn’t need to be cringy or time consuming.
When in doubt, just focus on what matters: connection, reflection, and fun.
What’s your favorite way to celebrate virtually?
I’d love to hear your ideas—what would you add to this list? Hit reply to this email.
And if you host a virtual celebration, let me know how it goes. ⭐️
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Creatively yours,
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