{"id":12165,"date":"2013-11-20T08:35:42","date_gmt":"2013-11-20T15:35:42","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.paperdirect.com\/blog\/?p=12165"},"modified":"2025-09-25T08:51:35","modified_gmt":"2025-09-25T13:51:35","slug":"how-to-run-a-christmas-cubicle-decorating-contest","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.paperdirect.com\/blog\/2013\/11\/how-to-run-a-christmas-cubicle-decorating-contest\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Plan Your Christmas Cubicle Decorating Contest"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignright\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"282\" height=\"300\" src=\"\/blog\/media\/christmas-cubicle-decoration-contest-282x300.png\" alt=\"Christmas Cubicle Decorating Contest\" class=\"wp-image-12166\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.paperdirect.com\/blog\/media\/christmas-cubicle-decoration-contest-282x300.png 282w, https:\/\/www.paperdirect.com\/blog\/media\/christmas-cubicle-decoration-contest-141x150.png 141w, https:\/\/www.paperdirect.com\/blog\/media\/christmas-cubicle-decoration-contest-329x350.png 329w, https:\/\/www.paperdirect.com\/blog\/media\/christmas-cubicle-decoration-contest.png 708w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 282px) 100vw, 282px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>A <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.paperdirect.com\/occasions\/holidays\/christmas\" title=\"\">Christmas<\/a> cubicle decorating contest<\/strong> is a fun, easy way to inject some holiday cheer into your office while boosting morale and sparking creativity. Whether this is your first time hosting a contest or you\u2019re looking to refresh any holiday traditions, this guide will help HR teams, managers, and office culture leaders plan, execute, and promote a memorable and engaging contest. From setting the rules to rewarding winners, we\u2019ve got everything you need to make your cubicle decorating contest a success\u2014and spread some festive spirit in the process!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>1. Why Host a Christmas Cubicle Decorating Contest?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Fosters Camaraderie and Teamwork<\/strong><br>A cubicle Christmas decorating contest is a great opportunity for your coworkers to work together and bond over a shared goal. Whether they\u2019re collaborating on <a href=\"https:\/\/www.paperdirect.com\/occasions\/holidays\/christmas\/christmas-banners\" title=\"\">decorations<\/a> or just chatting about ideas, the contest fosters a sense of camaraderie.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Adds Energy and Cheer During the Winter Slump<\/strong><br>As the winter months drag on, energy in the office can dip. A <a href=\"https:\/\/www.paperdirect.com\/occasions\/holidays\/christmas\" title=\"\">holiday<\/a> decorating contest adds much-needed cheer and liveliness, creating a vibrant atmosphere in an otherwise dreary season.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Encourages Lighthearted Employee Engagement<\/strong><br>Hosting a contest gives employees a chance to showcase their creativity in a low-pressure way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Reinforces a Fun, Inclusive Company Culture<\/strong><br>By inviting everyone to participate, you demonstrate that your company values creativity, fun, and inclusivity. It\u2019s a great way to strengthen company culture and make everyone feel part of the holiday spirit.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"178\" src=\"https:\/\/www.paperdirect.com\/blog\/media\/Christmas-desk.gif\" alt=\"christmas decor office desk\" class=\"wp-image-19249\"\/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>2. Set the Ground Rules for Participation<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Establish Safety, Noise, and Workspace Boundaries<\/strong><br>Before diving into the fun, make sure to clarify any rules about workspace boundaries. Be mindful of safety concerns, such as avoiding decorations that may obstruct walkways or create fire hazards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Comply with Fire Codes and Accessibility Standards<\/strong><br>Ensure that decorations meet any necessary fire code regulations. Additionally, consider accessibility for those who might have limited mobility, ensuring that decorations don\u2019t block doors or windows.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Define Timelines for Setup and Judging<\/strong><br>Set clear deadlines for both decorating and judging, ensuring that employees have enough time to fully participate without interfering with work tasks. A suggested timeline could be one week for decorating and a second week for judging.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Share the Rules in Advance<\/strong><br>Make sure that employees know what they\u2019re getting into. Announce the contest via email, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.paperdirect.com\/occasions\/holidays\/christmas\/christmas-occasions-border-papers\" title=\"\">posters<\/a>, or team meetings, and include the rules, deadlines, and judging criteria in every communication.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Suggested Judging Criteria<\/strong>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Overall Impact<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Creativity<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Use of Theme<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Originality<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>3. Creative Cubicle Decorating Theme Ideas<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Here are some theme ideas to get your employees\u2019 creative juices flowing. You can even invite employees to vote for the next year\u2019s theme to keep things fresh and exciting!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignright size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"168\" src=\"https:\/\/www.paperdirect.com\/blog\/media\/Workplace_Santa.jpg\" alt=\"Santa theme for cubicles\n\" class=\"wp-image-20210\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Classic Themes<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Winter Wonderland<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Santa\u2019s Workshop<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>North Pole Express<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Fun Themes<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Ugly Sweater Desk<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Elf on the Shelf Takeover<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Christmas Around the World<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Eco-Friendly Themes<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Recycled Decorations Only<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Paper &amp; Cardboard Challenge<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>4. Promote the Contest Across the Office<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Announce in Team Meetings and via Email\/Slack<\/strong><br>Spread the word by announcing the contest during team meetings or through office communication platforms like email and Slack. Make sure to include all the key details: rules, deadlines, and theme.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Build Excitement<\/strong><br>To generate buzz, share decorating tips, photos from previous contests, or sneak peeks of festive supplies. You can also create countdowns or progress boards to keep the excitement building.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" src=\"https:\/\/www.paperdirect.com\/blog\/media\/Work_Christmas.jpg\" alt=\"decorate cubicles and office spaces for Christmas\" class=\"wp-image-20207\"\/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>5. Offer Decorating Supplies and Tips<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Provide Budget-Friendly Materials<\/strong><br>Supply employees with inexpensive, accessible materials like tinsel, garland, wrapping paper, and cardstock. This ensures everyone, regardless of budget, can participate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Set Up a Donation Station for Gently Used Decorations<\/strong><br>Encourage employees to donate unused holiday decorations to a shared supply pool, making it easier for everyone to join in, even if they don\u2019t have decorations of their own.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Offer Decorating Tips<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Use <strong>wrapping paper<\/strong> to cover cubicle walls for an instant transformation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Repurpose everyday office supplies to create <strong>DIY ornaments<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Add <strong>battery-operated lights<\/strong> for a festive touch (safety first!).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Encourage employees to be resourceful and creative\u2014even with limited supplies.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" src=\"https:\/\/www.paperdirect.com\/blog\/media\/CoPilot_Cubicle.jpg\" alt=\"cubicle decorating contest\" class=\"wp-image-20205\"\/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>6. Judging the Contest &amp; Awarding Winners<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Choose Your Voting Style<\/strong><br>Decide whether you want to go with peer voting, anonymous ballots, or a management panel to select the winners. The style you choose will depend on the size of your office and your company culture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Offer Fun Awards<\/strong><br>Here are some unique categories you can use to keep things lighthearted and fun:<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignright size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"540\" height=\"540\" src=\"https:\/\/www.paperdirect.com\/blog\/media\/ct3900-kris-kringle-fill-in-the-blank-gift-certificates-000.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-20211\" style=\"width:301px;height:auto\"\/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Most Creative<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Best Use of Office Supplies<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Merriest Theme<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Funniest Cubicle<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Perks for Winners<\/strong><br>Award winners with fun prizes like:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Gift Cards or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.paperdirect.com\/recognition\/certificate-papers\/gift-certificates\" title=\"\">Gift Certificates<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Early Dismissal Passes<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Coffee Gift Baskets<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.paperdirect.com\/recognition\/certificate-papers\" title=\"\">Certificates<\/a> with a festive border<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>These small perks make the contest even more rewarding!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>7. Make It Memorable (and Shareable)<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Capture the Moment<\/strong><br>Don\u2019t forget to take plenty of photos and videos of the decorated cubicles! These will make great memories and can be shared across your office channels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Showcase Your Contest<\/strong><br>Share highlights in your company <a href=\"https:\/\/www.paperdirect.com\/stationery\/business-stationery\/newsletters\" title=\"\">newsletter<\/a>, intranet, or during the holiday party. Consider creating a collage or slideshow featuring the top decorated cubicles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Social Media Fun<\/strong><br>With permission, post photos of the contest on your company\u2019s social media accounts. This helps showcase your office culture and spreads some holiday cheer to your broader network.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Archive Winning Entries<\/strong><br>Keep a record of the contest winners so you can reference past entries for inspiration next year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A <strong>Christmas cubicle decorating contest<\/strong> isn\u2019t just a break from work\u2014it\u2019s a way to unite your team, encourage creativity, and celebrate the season in a fun, inclusive way. With a little planning, some creative ideas, and a dash of holiday spirit, your office will be full of laughter, collaboration, and festive joy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"168\" src=\"https:\/\/www.paperdirect.com\/blog\/media\/WorkOfficeXmas.jpg\" alt=\"xmas garland cubicle\n\" class=\"wp-image-20204\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Ready to get in the holiday spirit? Stock up on festive <a href=\"https:\/\/www.paperdirect.com\/recognition\/certificate-papers\" title=\"\">certificates<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.paperdirect.com\/stationery\/business-stationery\/border-papers\" title=\"\">border paper<\/a>, and decorating supplies at <strong>PaperDirect.com<\/strong> to make your office cubicle contest one to remember!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This blog should now help HR teams, managers, and office culture leaders effectively plan a <strong>Christmas cubicle decorating contest<\/strong>, offering guidance on everything from rules and themes to promotion and judging. Would you like any sections adjusted or expanded?<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>A Christmas cubicle decorating contest is a fun, easy way to inject some holiday cheer into your office while boosting<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":11,"featured_media":20206,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_mi_skip_tracking":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[150],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-12165","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-christmas-holiday-party-tips"],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.paperdirect.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12165"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.paperdirect.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.paperdirect.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.paperdirect.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/11"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.paperdirect.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=12165"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/www.paperdirect.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12165\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":20212,"href":"https:\/\/www.paperdirect.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12165\/revisions\/20212"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.paperdirect.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/20206"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.paperdirect.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=12165"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.paperdirect.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=12165"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.paperdirect.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=12165"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}