45 Thoughtful Holiday Gifts for Employees and Coworkers They’ll Love

It’s that time of the year again—chocolates are making the rounds, cakes are being cut, and teams are finding moments to celebrate together. The holiday season brings more than just festive cheer—it’s the perfect moment to pause and show appreciation for the dedication, hard work, and camaraderie your team brings all year long.

Holiday gifts are a heartfelt way to do just that. Whether you're looking for thoughtful holiday gifts for employees or lighthearted holiday gifts for coworkers, the right gesture can spark joy and make someone’s day. From fun treats to meaningful surprises, we've curated a list of versatile employee holiday gift ideas to help you spread warmth, gratitude, and a bit of magic throughout the office.

Let the season of giving begin—because nothing says “we appreciate you” quite like a carefully chosen gift.

25 Corporate holiday gift ideas for employees to foster engagement 

Finding the right holiday gift for your team can be tricky—but it’s a great way to show appreciation and boost morale before the year ends. Whether for practical, personalized, or fun, here are 25 corporate holiday gift ideas your employees will love.

1. Upscale their in-house entertainment 

A big hit amongst employees who can’t stop binge-watching during lunchtime. Gifts ranging from crumbs of OTT subscriptions to a plethora of entertainment experiences that enhance the in-home experience are a timeless hit in the new wish list of holiday gifts to staff. And yes, a big-screen TV or PC monitor would do the job of gaming, movies, and the grind. 

Great for employees who love binge-watching, consider gifting OTT subscriptions or even a high-end monitor. Empuls offers digital gift cards for platforms like Netflix, Prime Video, and Spotify, making it easy to deliver entertainment directly.

2. Extra time off 

A big hit among employees who conveniently "fall sick" the day after Christmas until New Year's Day! Work-life often puts a true, no-strings-attached vacation on hold. A week of pure relaxation or adventure is something we all crave, but deadlines and workload usually get in the way. 

A perfect holiday gift for employees is to give them some extra time off and watch them come back all recharged and ready to rumble. 

3. Send them a care package 

Spread some holiday cheer via a curated employee gift box that ships directly to their doorstep. Sometimes finding one specific gift for an employee can be a real challenge. With a gift box service, you can select the best-curated care package for your colleague. You can even let them build their own gift box! 

4. Give them a knowledge boost 

This is perfect for those who love sharing their latest certifications on LinkedIn, a gift of knowledge is the ultimate way to support their growth and passion for learning. Many people yearn for free time to learn new skills and the holiday season is perfect timing to add new laurels to one’s profile. 

5. Good ol’ pair of headphones 

A perfect gift for employees who start their day with Spotify, headphones have become the ultimate symbol of personal space in the workplace. They are no longer frowned upon, but they help boost focus and productivity. A high-quality pair makes for a thoughtful holiday gift, with plenty of budget-friendly options to suit your team’s needs. 

6. Tickets to events, concerts, or theatre 

‍Experiential gifts are simply amazing and leave an impact no other gift can. Your employees come back recharged; the best part is that it’s always inscribed in their minds. We all remember the first time our employer took us out on a field trip or a vacation. It’s a timeless memory—and a perfect holiday gift for employees. 

7. Office décor never goes out of style 

A favorite among employees who take pride in their workspace aesthetics! Consider gifting ergonomic accessories like a standing desk converter to promote comfort, a high-quality leather desk pad for a sleek touch, or a custom-engraved nameplate to add a personal flair. A well-designed work setup not only enhances productivity but also makes every workday feel a little more inspiring. 

8. A cozy blanket/a mini fan 

For those constantly battling office temperatures, whether too close to the AC vent or sitting right under the sun. Some spend their summers squinting at their screens with the sun glaring, while others brace for winter with an AC blasting above their heads. A cozy desk blanket is the perfect fix for the perpetually chilly, while a compact USB fan can relieve those stuck in the heat. Comfort at work is key, and these small gestures can make all the difference! 

9. A pampering session at spas and salons 

Is there anyone who doesn’t like to be pampered? Spa and salon vouchers are the proverbial favorite gifts from an employer because most employees find it too luxurious to spend their hard-earned greens on it. Considering that, a spa, salon, or mani-pedi session voucher would always find takers. 

10. A customized notebook 

This one is a big hit amongst interns because they’ve got too much to jot down. Mobile phones might have replaced scribbling, but many still prefer jotting down things now and then in their notebooks. This holiday gift is best served branded with your company’s logo and the recipient's name embossed on it. 

12. Some nifty travel gear 

We all know the group of people who travel extensively for conferences, attending seminars, conferences, having dinners with clients is always on their calendar. Holiday gifts like customized luggage tags, travel pillows, blankets, and charging kits would be perfect for them. Not only are these items relatively easy on the company budget but people always appreciate them on the go. 

13. Personalized office supplies 

For the ones who ask the admin for a new pen every other day, personalized stationery goes a long way in making your workforce feel special. A small pouch full of pens, pencils, and other desk essentials with the company logo would be perfect for getting things running as a holiday hamper for your employees.  

Pro Tip: Ask employees what they’d love to receive instead of guessing! A quick survey helps you pick gifts they’ll genuinely appreciate while keeping the element of surprise. A “Get to Know You” survey would help make it fun and engaging. 

14. A desk organizer for the neat freak 

Perfect for employees who thrive in a clutter-free workspace. A sleek, well-designed desk accessory—like a standing desk converter or an ergonomic monitor stand- adds function and style to their setup. Branded with your company’s logo, it’s a thoughtful yet budget-friendly gift that keeps their workspace tidy while reinforcing a sense of belonging.  

15. Gift cards never fail to deliver 

A big hit amongst employees who’ve got everything else. Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart—take your pick or let your employees choose their kind of gift card. Gift cards straight up get topped up into the user’s account, and they can shop for whatever they want. Or you can leave it to them to choose their gift card by offering Xoxo Points, which can be redeemed for gift cards. 

Let employees choose their ideal gift from over 8,000 brands by awarding Xoxo points on Empuls. These points can be redeemed for gift cards across Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, and more.

16. A Tablet or an eBook reader 

A thoughtful gift for the bibliophile who never misses a book club meeting. For those who always have a new read on their desk, an eBook reader is the perfect solution—eliminating late-night reading struggles and bookstore trips.  

While tablets and eBook readers can be a bit of an investment, they make for an exceptional holiday gift that keeps on giving, offering endless stories at their fingertips. 

17. One of your employees’ hobbies 

A perfect gift for artists, writers, train-set collectors, and anyone with a passion project. Hobby-centric gifts have a unique way of rekindling old interests and inspiring creativity. Whether it’s a high-quality sketchbook, a collector’s edition model, or a personalized writing set, these gifts can reconnect someone with a pastime they’ve been meaning to revisit. 

A study by Matthew J. Zawadzki titled "Real-Time Associations Between Engaging in Leisure and Daily Health and Well-Being" indicates that hobbies and leisure activities can have numerous health and psychological benefits like immediate stress relief, improved focus, and a high happiness quotient. Undoubtedly, hobby-centric gifts are highly memorable and enjoyable for the receiver. 

Give an artist a brush and some oil pastels and watch them return to their sketchbook or give a writer a rusty notepad and watch the melancholic poems flow by. Empower your workforce’s inner talents by allowing them a gift that resonates with their hobbies. 

18. A luscious gourmet food basket 

For remote employees who munch their work hours away, send snack boxes as an amazing food gift basket to your employees’ homes. This is an amazing holiday gift for remote employees because they are too far from work, and physical disconnect can be exhausting.‍ 

19. Prepaid cards for personalized festive shopping

Give your employees the freedom to choose what they truly want with reloadable prepaid cards. Empuls offers prepaid card options that can be used both online and offline across a wide network of merchants. 

Whether it's festive shopping, paying bills, or booking a holiday experience, prepaid cards empower employees to spend their holiday reward in a way that best suits their lifestyle. It's a versatile and hassle-free gifting solution that ensures every recipient feels valued and in control.

20. A coffee fix-up 

For employees who run on caffeine, a premium coffee gift set is a thoughtful way to elevate their daily routine. Whether it’s artisanal coffee beans, a sleek French press, a subscription to a specialty coffee service or Starbucks gift cards , this gift ensures their coffee breaks are always enjoyable. 

21. Workplace upgrade for remote employees 

Perfect for remote employees who can’t find the right camera angle because of the furniture. Since remote workers exist in nearly every organization, they could use a handy gift like an ergonomic chair, a table hammock, or simply a gift card to the nearest furniture store to upgrade their home office. 

Not only would this increase productivity, but it’d also result in a happy and motivated employee altogether. 

22. Local experiences and day-outs

Let employees redeem points for local experiences like cooking classes, pottery workshops, guided tours, or theme park tickets. Empuls supports hyperlocal experiences in over 100 countries, allowing employees to enjoy memorable time off during the holidays.

23. Indoor plants or desk planters 

Brighten up their workspace with a little greenery! A stylish desk planter or a low-maintenance succulent adds a refreshing touch, purifies the air, and brings a sense of calm to their busy day. Succulents, snake plants, or lucky bamboo make excellent low-maintenance choices. 

24. Tech organizers 

A compact tech organizer is a lifesaver for employees who juggle gadgets and cables. It stores chargers, headphones, and accessories neatly, making travel and remote work hassle-free. A compact travel tech organizer can also be an excellent choice for employees who travel frequently.  

25. Custom engraved mugs 

A high-quality personalized mug with an employee’s name, initials, or an inspiring quote can make their coffee breaks extra special. A simple yet heartfelt gift they'll use (and love) every day. 

26. Wellness & meditation app subscription 

Provides access to guided meditation, breathing exercises, and stress-relief techniques. Help your employees unwind and recharge with a subscription to a wellness app like Calm or Headspace that specializes in guided meditation, breathing exercises, and stress relief techniques—because their well-being matters. 

27. Custom laptop sleeve

A sleek, personalized laptop sleeve keeps their device safe while adding a stylish touch. Choose one with their initials or company branding for that extra thoughtful touch. 

28. Canvas tote bag

This stylishly looking Canvas Tote Bag might be one of the best gift ideas for coworkers. This lightweight bag also helps your coworker add the necessary items, leaving no stone unturned. You can even use your logo for branding to help promote the company as they carry the bag. 

Create lasting memories with customized company holiday ornaments. Add a personal touch to each ornament by seamlessly incorporating your company's distinctive logo or a heartfelt message, transforming these ornaments into cherished keepsakes that resonate with the season's spirit. 

Celebrate the holidays in style and leave a lasting impression with our exclusive personalized ornaments that blend festive cheer with the artistry of logo design.

29. Year-end recognition awards

Wrap up the year positively by recognizing your employees' hard work with personalized year-end awards. Celebrate their achievements and contributions with customized certificates or plaques.

30. Holiday bonus 

Sometimes, the most appreciated holiday gift is a simple envelope—with a cashier’s check and a heartfelt note inside. A financial bonus allows employees to spend on what matters most to them: holiday shopping, travel, or year-end expenses. 

Add a slight touch like chocolates for warmth, but ultimately, this thoughtful gesture ensures employees feel valued while making the employer’s job hassle-free. 

15 Holiday gifts for coworkers for being supportive throughout the year

Here’s a curated list of 15 holiday gift ideas for coworkers. These options span a range of preferences, from experiences and merchandise to wellness perks and gift cards—making them perfect for thoughtful, personalized gifting this festive season.

1. Branded swag and curated gift boxes

Create a sense of team spirit with custom-branded merchandise. Through Empuls, you can curate holiday gift boxes that include company-branded T-shirts, mugs, notebooks, or gadgets. These boxes can be personalized with holiday messages and shipped directly, making it easy to spread festive cheer across locations.

2. Experience vouchers for memorable outings

Offer your coworkers the gift of unforgettable moments with experience vouchers. Empuls partners with over 100,000 providers globally, offering everything from fine dining and spa treatments to outdoor adventures and museum tours. It's a great way to celebrate the holidays beyond the workplace.

3. Electronics and gadgets at exclusive rates

For tech-savvy coworkers, Empuls offers access to discounted electronics like smartwatches, earbuds, or home automation tools. These premium gadgets are available at special corporate rates and can be delivered through the rewards platform, ensuring convenience and value.

4. Wellness subscriptions and health packages

Empuls makes it easy to support employee well-being by offering wellness-focused gifts. Employees can redeem subscriptions for meditation apps, fitness platforms, or spa services. Many of these can be linked to lifestyle spending accounts (LSAs), giving employees flexibility to choose what supports their health goals best.

5. Gourmet coffee and beverage hampers

A holiday favorite, gourmet coffee or tea hampers are perfect for cozy winter mornings. Through Empuls, you can offer curated kits featuring artisanal brews, mugs, or festive beverages. These can be sent as personalized gifts or included in a larger gift box for maximum impact.

6. Discounted gift cards from global brands

Empuls enables employees to choose their perfect gift through discounted gift cards. With access to over 8,000 local and international brands, these cards can be used across fashion, dining, tech, or groceries, offering something for every taste and preference.

7. Home and living essentials

Colleagues can upgrade their living spaces with products from Empuls’ extensive merchandise catalog. From decor and lighting to kitchenware and comfort accessories, this category is ideal for remote workers or those who enjoy enhancing their home environment.

8. Online learning subscriptions

Encourage professional growth with the gift of learning. Empuls offers gift options, including subscriptions to Coursera, LinkedIn Learning, and Udemy. These can be redeemed easily and support both career and personal development goals.

9. Gaming credits and entertainment passes

Let your coworkers unwind with digital entertainment. Empuls supports gifting subscriptions to Netflix, Spotify, and gaming credits for Steam, Xbox, and other platforms. These digital gifts are delivered instantly and cater to various interests.

10. Holiday wishboards for team celebrations

Foster a culture of recognition and inclusion by using Empuls’ digital holiday wishboard. Coworkers can post holiday greetings, share images and memories, and express gratitude in a collaborative space. Connecting remote and in-office teams during the festive season is a meaningful way.

11. Travel and staycation packages

Empuls lets employees plan their next adventure with rewards they can use on flights, hotels, car rentals, or home stays. Whether they’re going home for the holidays or planning a short break, this gift supports rejuvenation and relaxation.

12. Customized home decor items

With Empuls, employees can select personalized home decor such as wall art, photo frames, clocks, or digital artwork. These gifts combine aesthetics with personal meaning, making them perfect for holiday gifting.

13. Eco-friendly and sustainable gifts

Support environmentally conscious gifting through bamboo organizers, reusable drinkware, and recycled paper products. These are available through Empuls' eco-friendly category and are ideal for coworkers who value sustainability.

14. Charity donations on behalf of employees

Make the holidays more impactful by donating to a cause in your coworker’s name. Empuls allows employees to support over 10,000 nonprofits globally. This gift gives back meaningfully from disaster relief to education and animal welfare.

15. Flexible reward points for self-selection

Sometimes ,the best gift is the one you choose yourself. Empuls allows organizations to allocate reward points that employees can redeem for any item in the global catalog, from merchandise and experiences to perks and donations. This approach combines flexibility with personalization.

Each option is fully supported through Empuls' integrated rewards platform, making it easy to distribute, manage, and track your holiday gifting initiative.

Conclusion

As we wrap up this exploration of 20 Spectacular holiday gifts for employees & coworkers, it's evident that the joy of giving during the holiday season goes beyond the tangible items exchanged. Each carefully selected gift becomes a symbol of appreciation, a gesture that resonates with the festive spirit and strengthens the bonds within the workplace.

The holiday gifts we've delved into aren't just items but expressions of gratitude, recognition, and the collective joy that defines a harmonious work environment.

Whether it's the warmth of a customized desk accessory set, the thrill of an adventure-themed experience voucher, or the comfort of a cozy company-branded hoodie, these gifts convey a message beyond words.

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