Office Christmas decorating contest ideas can boost energy, teamwork, and holiday spirit in a simple way. You can use clear themes, easy rules, and safe materials to help every team join the fun and create a workspace that feels festive.
Classic Red and Green Workstation Theme
Use red and green desk accents like garland, bows, and paper ornaments for a familiar Christmas look. Keep the design clean so work tools stay easy to reach.
Add a mini tree or a tabletop wreath to anchor the theme. Use battery lights so cords do not create hazards. Include one shared feature like a matching desk name sign for the whole team. This helps the display look planned instead of random.
Winter Wonderland White-Out
Cover the space in white, silver, and icy blue for a snowy vibe. Use cotton “snow,” paper snowflakes, and frosted ornaments for texture.
Add cool white fairy lights around monitors and shelves. Keep lights away from paper stacks and vents. Place a “Snow Zone” sign at the entry to make the theme clear. This style looks bright in photos and feels calm.
Ugly Sweater Desk Display
Turn the cubicle into a “ugly sweater” in decor form with loud patterns and bold colors. Use wrapping paper as a backdrop and add oversized pom-poms or felt shapes.
Add a fake “knit” texture using printed fabric or paper panels. Keep it flat on walls so it does not block walkways. Include a funny sweater tag that shows the team name. This theme wins points for humor and easy DIY.
Candy Cane Lane Cubicle
Use red and white stripes across panels, chair backs, and desk edges. Add peppermint ornaments and candy-cane props to complete the look.
Create a simple “candy shop” counter using a tray with wrapped candy. Use sealed candy only to keep it clean. Add a small sign like “Sweet Stop” for a finished feel. The strong stripe pattern looks sharp and festive.
Santa’s Workshop Station
Turn the desk into a mini workshop with “toy” props like wrapped boxes, small tools, and elf hats. Use brown paper and string to create a gift-making vibe.
Add a “List Check” clipboard and a fake shipping label board. Keep props lightweight so nothing falls near keyboards. Use one plush Santa or elf as the centerpiece. This theme tells a story and keeps the contest fun.
Grinch-Inspired Green Takeover
Use green decor, playful signs, and one red accent to match the Grinch mood. Add a “Grinch Parking” desk sign and a faux “stolen” ornament trail.
Create a small “Grinch corner” with a green pillow or scarf on the chair. Keep all fabric away from heaters and vents. Add a final sign like “Cheer Under Construction.” This theme works well for teams that like jokes.
Nutcracker and Ballet Elegance
Use gold, red, and deep green with nutcracker figures for a classic, elegant look. Add ribbon, small faux pine, and a few ornaments with a glossy finish.
Place one nutcracker figure as the centerpiece on a shelf or corner of the desk. Keep it stable so it will not tip. Add a “Holiday Performance” poster-style sign to tie it together. This theme feels polished and photo-ready.
Gingerbread Office Setup
Make gingerbread “walls” using brown paper, white trim, and candy-shaped cutouts. Add gumdrop colors as small accents across panels.
Create a “frosting” border with cotton rope or white paper strips. Keep it flat so it does not snag on people passing by. Add a sign like “Gingerbread HQ” and a small tray of sealed treats. The theme looks warm and friendly.
Christmas Movie Scene Desk
Pick one movie like Home Alone, Elf, or The Polar Express and build a scene. Use printed images, props, and quotes to show the story fast.
Add a small “scene board” that lists the movie name and top quotes. Keep it readable from a few feet away. Use a matching color palette so the display looks unified. This theme gets strong votes because people love references.
Holiday Around the World
Show Christmas traditions from several countries using small flags and simple icons. Use a world map poster as the background and place labeled decor pieces.
Add a small card for each country with one tradition detail in one sentence. Keep it short so viewers can scan quickly. Use a clean layout with consistent labels and spacing. This idea feels fresh and sparks conversation.
Snowman Desk Crew
Create a “snowman family” using white paper lanterns or foam balls. Add scarves, hats, and button cutouts for character.
Place them on the floor corner or side table so the desk stays usable. Use tape and stable bases for safety. Add a sign that names each snowman like “IT Snowman” or “HR Snowman.” It adds humor and team identity.
Image prompt:
Minimalist Scandinavian Christmas
Use neutral colors, natural textures, and simple shapes like stars and trees. Add wood-tone decor, white lights, and small pine sprigs.
Keep the desk surface clear and use wall panels for most decor. This keeps it professional and calm. Add a simple sign like “God Jul” or “Happy Holidays” in black text. The clean style stands out in a noisy office.
Reindeer Stable Cubicle
Turn the cubicle into a mini “reindeer stable” with hay-like paper strips and rustic wood-print backdrops. Add reindeer cutouts, antlers, and jingle bells.
Create a “feed station” with a small bowl of faux carrots or paper treats. Keep small items secured so they do not spill. Add a sign like “Reindeer Rest Stop.” This theme feels playful and easy to build.
Christmas Tree Wall Mosaic
Build a large tree shape on the cubicle wall using green sticky notes or paper squares. Add “ornaments” with colored notes or circles.
Keep it flat and neat so it looks like a clean graphic. Add a star at the top using gold paper.
Include a team message in the notes like “Happy Holidays from Sales.” This idea is low cost and high impact.
Light Show Desk Outline
Outline the cubicle frame with battery-powered string lights. Choose one light color or two colors to keep it tidy.
Add reflective accents like silver garland so light bounces. Keep lights away from cables and walkway edges. Include a “Light Show” sign and set a timer if your lights allow it. The glow makes the space feel cozy and festive.
Christmas Post Office Theme
Create a “North Pole Post” desk with mailbags, envelopes, and stamp props. Use a small mailbox or a labeled box for letters.
Add a “Send Cheer” sign and provide blank cards for coworkers to write notes. Keep pens and cards in one tidy holder. Use red twine and kraft paper for a classic mail look. This theme adds interaction and feels warm.
Ornament Gallery Wall
Hang ornaments in a grid on the cubicle wall like a gallery. Use a single color family like gold tones or pastel tones for a clean look.
Add small labels under a few ornaments with fun names like “Team Spirit” or “Big Win.” Keep labels short and readable. Use hooks that do not damage surfaces if your office requires it. This theme looks neat and easy to judge.
DIY Paper Craft Christmas Village
Build small paper houses and trees to create a village scene. Place it on a side shelf or a spare corner table.
Add tiny LED candles behind the paper houses for a glow effect. Keep the lights cool and battery powered. Include a sign like “Holiday Village District.” The tiny details make people stop and look.
Polar Bear Chill Zone
Use white and light blue decor with polar bear cutouts and snow textures. Add a fluffy white throw on the chair if office rules allow fabric.
Create a “Chill Zone” sign and add a small “hot cocoa” prop station with sealed packets. Keep it neat and away from electronics. Use soft lighting to match the calm theme. This idea feels cozy and friendly for winter.
Christmas Tree Desk Topper Challenge
Each team builds one mini tree on the desk using the same base item like a cone or small branch. Teams can decorate it in their own style within set rules.
Add a small sign that lists the rules in one short line. This keeps judging fair and keeps the office tidy. Place the mini trees in a row for a strong group photo. This contest idea is easy to run and easy to score.
Eco-Friendly Recycled Decor Theme
Use cardboard, paper, and reused packaging to create ornaments and garland. Add a sign that highlights the reused materials.
Make a recycled wreath from old office paper and binders clips. Keep sharp edges covered and smooth. Use natural accents like pine sprigs if allowed. This theme feels thoughtful and matches sustainability goals.
“12 Days of Christmas” Display
Split the cubicle into 12 small sections that show each day with a simple icon. Use printed labels and matching color accents.
Keep each day’s item small so the layout stays clean. Use consistent spacing so it looks organized. Add a final sign that says “12 Days of Office Cheer.” Judges can score it for creativity and clarity.
Team Trophy Wall and Awards
Create a “holiday awards” wall with funny categories like “Best Snack Saver” or “Fastest Email Reply.” Use gold paper medals and ribbons.
Add a small shelf with a trophy prop like a painted cup. Keep it stable and away from edges.
Use a simple color palette so it feels like a real awards show. This theme makes people laugh and join in.
Photo Booth Cubicle Corner
Set up one corner as a photo booth with a backdrop, props, and a clear sign. Use safe, lightweight props like paper frames and speech bubbles.
Add a ring light or a desk lamp for better photos if office rules allow it. Keep all cables secured or use battery lights. Place a small instruction card with two steps for quick use. This theme boosts participation and makes memories.
Office Department Theme Twist
Pick a theme that matches your team role, like “Finance Frost” or “Marketing Mistletoe.” Use one strong symbol that links to the department.
Add a short tagline that explains the joke in one line. Keep it clear so everyone gets it fast.
Use matching colors across the whole area for unity. This idea feels personal and fits the office setting.
Christmas Countdown Chain Wall
Build a paper chain that counts down to the office holiday break day. Use alternating colors and add a small message on each link.
Hang the chain along the wall edge so it stays out of the way. Keep it secured so it does not swing into work areas. Let coworkers remove one link per day for interaction. This contest idea keeps the holiday mood going all month.
FAQ
How do you run an office Christmas decorating contest? Set a theme, set a time window, and share clear safety rules. Use simple judging categories like creativity, neatness, and theme match.
What are good judging categories for office decorating contests? Use creativity, teamwork, holiday spirit, and use of space. Add a bonus category for eco-friendly design if you want.
How can teams decorate on a tight budget? Use paper crafts, printed backdrops, and reused boxes. Focus on one strong focal point and repeat small accents.
What is a safe way to use lights in office decor? Use battery-powered string lights or LED lights. Keep lights away from vents, paper stacks, and walkways.
How do you keep office decorations professional? Keep decor neat, avoid strong smells, and keep desks usable. Use clean themes like winter wonderland or minimalist holiday style.
How far in advance should the contest start? Start in early December and set judging near mid-month. This gives teams time and keeps the office festive longer.
What are easy prize ideas for an office decorating contest? Offer gift cards, extra break time, or a team lunch. You can also give a traveling trophy for fun.
How do you include remote employees in the contest? Let remote staff decorate a home workspace and submit photos. You can also run a virtual background theme contest.
How do you avoid mess and cleanup problems? Use reusable decor and avoid loose glitter. Provide a cleanup deadline and a shared supply bin for materials.
Conclusion
These office Christmas decorating contest ideas help teams build cheerful spaces that feel fun, clear, and easy to judge.
Pick one theme, set simple rules, and focus on safe decor that keeps work areas usable. A well-run contest brings smiles, photos, and real team energy that lasts beyond the season.