Why You Should Have a Festivus Holiday Office Party

You may have noticed that I love Seinfeld references, but I can't help it. Watching Seinfeld is inextricably linked with law school for me because I'd zone out watching re-runs when I got home from the law library at 11 p.m. every night. Watching Seinfeld was my brain's way of cooling off before I could catch some zzz's. So, it's only natural that this holiday season, I want you to have a Festivus-themed holiday party.

Here's why.

It's Non-Denominational

For those of you that are familiar with Festivus, then you know the catch-phrase, "A Festivus for the rest of us." It was born out of a reaction to the excesses and commercialism of the Christmas holiday season. Celebrated on December 23, Festivus is a secular holiday, and the only decoration is a Festivus pole, which lacks ... decoration. See, you're already saving money on decorations, and no one is getting offended.

You Can Eat a Nice Dinner

Festivus festivities including sharing a meal with your friends and family -- but the best part of the meal is when all the good stuff happens (see below).

You Can Give Performance Reviews at the Party

One of the funniest parts of Festivus is the "Airing of Grievances" -- when everyone goes around the table telling the other why they were such a disappointment the last year. You can use this time to let people know what skills they need to brush up on. Meanwhile, any positive work can be highlighted as "Festivus Miracles."

You Can Show Them Who's In Charge

Festivus is not over until the "Feats of Strength" portion of the party. According to tradition, the holiday does not end until the host gets pinned to the floor in a wrestling match, so here's your chance to show off your muscles. Um, just kidding. You may want to skip this part, which will ensure that the festivities keep on going until next year (and to avoid getting sued).

However you decide to celebrate the winter holiday season, try to keep it light and fun for your employees and coworkers. There's no holiday more inclusive, or more funny, than Festivus. And, I know I'm a bit early, but Happy Festivus to you!

What's your favorite Festivus tradition? Let us know on LinkedIn.

Related Resources:

• Hard-Drinking Lawyers: Avoid a Holiday DUI (FindLaw's Strategist Blog)
• Season's Greetings 101: The Why and How of Sending Firm Holiday Cards (FindLaw's Strategist Blog)
• 4 Things to Remember for the Upcoming Holiday Season at Your Firm (FindLaw's Strategist Blog)