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If you’ve ever watched The Office, you know the Dunder Mifflin crew’s holiday parties were the definition of chaotic: awkward karaoke, Secret Santa gone wrong, and at least one HR violation per minute. Watching Michael Scott lose control is hilarious on TV, but your real-life office holiday party doesn’t have to be a comedy of errors.
Whether your team’s based downtown, in Little Italy, or up in North Park, here’s how to throw an unforgettable San Diego office holiday party — without having a Michael Scott meltdown.
Here are the dos and don’ts for planning the perfect San Diego holiday bash.
DO Set the Scene (Don’t Use the Breakroom)
The Dunder Mifflin crew made do with tinsel and desk lamps, but your team deserves better. Hosting your holiday party outside the office instantly elevates the vibe; it’s a chance to celebrate your people in a new environment and hit reset before the new year.
At BRICK, you’ll find a venue that sets the tone for a memorable night. With soaring industrial ceilings, exposed brick walls, and a flexible open-concept space, it’s the kind of spot that looks good in every photo and can be transformed to match any holiday aesthetic, from sleek and modern to cozy and festive.
Pro tip: Book early, as top San Diego holiday party venues fill up fast.
DO Plan Ahead (Don’t Send Invites the Day Before)
If there’s one thing The Office taught us, it’s that throwing together a last-minute party rarely ends well. (Looking at you, “Moroccan Christmas.”)
In San Diego, December calendars fill up quickly with weddings, galas, and corporate events, so securing your venue early ensures you get your preferred date, pricing, and planning support.
Don’t rely on an in-house “party planning committee.” Partner with professionals who can help with everything from layout to lighting to logistics. BRICK’s experienced team makes planning easy, helping you design a seamless, stress-free celebration your whole office will actually enjoy.
Secure your San Diego holiday party venue early to lock in the best dates and packages.
DO Keep It Classy (Don’t Let It Turn Into a Meredith Moment)
We all love Meredith, but her idea of “holiday spirit” might not be HR-approved. Keep your celebration elevated (and under control) with the right bar setup and menu.
BRICK Beverage offers customizable drink packages from open bar to drink tickets or creative mocktail stations. Pair your beverage service with local catering favorites for a food spread that fits your team’s style.
Of course, don’t center the entire night around alcohol. Try incorporating something interactive or creative, like a dessert bar or hot cocoa station featuring local treats from San Diego artisans.
Want to incorporate a local twist? Think craft beers from San Diego staples like Ballast Point or Modern Times, or a cozy cocoa bar instead of an eggnog overload.
DO Make It About the Team (Don’t Make It Awkward Like Secret Santa)
Who can forget the iPod vs. oven mitt gift exchange disaster? The key to great company holiday events in San Diego is celebrating your team — not stressing them out.
Add some fun without the awkwardness:
Raffle off local experiences or gift cards to San Diego favorites
Hand out lighthearted awards (Best Zoom Background, Office MVP, etc.)
Incorporate local flair with beachy ornaments or SoCal-inspired swag
BRICK’s flexible layout makes it easy to host everything from cocktail mingles to sit-down dinners, so you can tailor the event to your team’s vibe.
DO Capture the Moment (Don’t Rely on Blurry Photos from HR)
You’ll want proof that your event went better than any Office episode. Hire a photographer or set up a festive photo booth to capture the fun.
BRICK’s natural lighting, exposed brick backdrops, and in-house décor options make for perfect photo ops. Plus, the 828 Planning team can help coordinate additional décor, branding, and photo booth add-ons so every snapshot looks like it came straight from a professional shoot.
Ask about BRICK’s photo booth and décor add-ons to make your San Diego holiday party picture-perfect.
Leave the Chaos to Michael Scott
Leave the cringe moments to The Office reruns and throw a holiday party your team will actually talk about for all the right reasons.
When you plan it right, your holiday party isn’t just a fun night; it’s an investment in your company culture.
With stunning architecture, flexible layouts, and that unmistakable San Diego charm, BRICK is the perfect setting for your company’s holiday celebration.
Book your San Diego office holiday party at BRICK today before Dwight starts making the rules.
Further Reading:
Every The Office Christmas Episode to Watch Now If You’re Craving Some Festive Chaos
