The company Christmas party is supposed to bring everyone together. For many neurodivergent employees, a loud, crowded venue with unclear plans and forced games can be draining or overwhelming instead. A little thought at the planning stage makes a neurodivergent-inclusive Christmas party easy to pull off, and most of the changes make the night better for everyone.
Make attendance genuinely optional
Big social events are not everyone’s idea of fun. Say clearly that attendance is optional, and mean it. Offer smaller alternatives such as a team lunch or a coffee morning for people who prefer quieter get-togethers.
Tip: a hybrid element, such as a short online toast or activity, lets people join in without committing to a whole evening.
Plan for the sensory environment
Loud music, flashing lights and packed rooms can be a lot for some neurodivergent people. The National Autistic Society explains how sensory processing differences affect everyday experiences. To make the space easier:
- keep music at a level where people can talk
- avoid strobe lighting and very bright lights
- set aside a quiet room where anyone can take a break
Tip: go for calm decorations rather than anything very sparkly, flashing or noisy. Our guide to managing sensory overload at work over Christmas has more ideas for the whole festive season.
Rethink the activities
Not everyone enjoys icebreakers or being put on the spot. Activities where people can join in as much or as little as they like tend to work better:
- a craft table or a hands-on workshop (at Enna we went to a pottery session in Camden Town, which was fab)
- a quiz, with questions shared in advance for anyone who likes to prepare
- a Christmas film with snacks
If you are doing Secret Santa, keep it opt-in. Our Secret Santa gift guide for neurodivergent colleagues and list of neurodiversity-friendly stocking fillers can help.
Share the details early and clearly
Uncertainty is stressful. Send the details well in advance, and include:
- the schedule and timings
- the dress code, whether casual or festive
- what food and drink will be provided and any costs
- the exact address of the venue, how to get there and any access codes
- any change of venue during the evening, and transport options
Tip: add a short outline of the activities so people know what to expect, and say who to contact with questions.
Think about food
Some neurodivergent people have strong sensory preferences around food or specific dietary needs. Offer a varied menu with clear labels for allergens and dietary options such as gluten-free and vegetarian.
Tip: include some plain, familiar options alongside anything adventurous.
Respect personal space and boundaries
Hugs, close talking and pressure to join group activities can make some people uncomfortable. Encourage everyone to respect personal space and to take “no thanks” at face value. Social events can be tiring or anxiety-inducing for some neurodivergent employees even when they are enjoying themselves, and that is fine.
Leave room to recover
Even a well-planned party can leave people needing time to wind down afterwards, especially after a late night and a long journey home. Avoid scheduling meetings the following morning, and be relaxed about a slower start.
Ask for feedback
After the event, invite people to say what worked and what did not, anonymously if possible. Use it to improve next year’s party, and to show your team that their comfort matters.
Clear communication is the thread running through all of this. It is also the foundation of breaking down barriers in the workplace for the rest of the year.
How Enna can help
A thoughtful Christmas party is a nice signal, but inclusion is what happens on an ordinary Tuesday in February. Our neuroinclusive communication workshop helps teams build the clear, considerate habits this post describes into everyday work. To see where your organisation is now, try our neuroinclusion maturity assessment, or book a call with the team.
Merry Christmas and happy celebrating from the Enna team.
