20 Holiday Gift Ideas for Colleagues (That They’ll Actually Like)

The holidays are coming, which means it’s time for cozy drinks, awkward office parties, and… figuring out what to get your coworkers without making it a big deal. Whether you’re doing a Secret Santa, picking something up for your desk buddy, or just want to spread some cheer, here are 20 easy, fun, and not-too-serious gift ideas for your colleagues.

No stress, no overthinking, just stuff that says “Happy Holidays!” in a chill way.

  1. Hot Chocolate Kit

Toss together some fancy cocoa, marshmallows, and maybe a peppermint stick. It’s festive and delicious. Done.

  1. Holiday-Scented Candle

Think “Vanilla Sugar,” “Cinnamon Spice,” or “Cozy Cabin Vibes.” Bonus if it comes in a cute tin.

  1. Desk-Sized Holiday Plant

A little poinsettia, mini Christmas tree, or even a fake plant with tinsel. Something fun for their space.

  1. Funny Holiday Mug

Make it weird: “Merry & Caffeinated” or “Dear Santa, I Tried.” You know their vibe.

  1. Desk Snacks with a Bow

Grab their fave treats (chocolate, chips, trail mix) and pop them in a festive bag. Super easy win.

  1. Mini Hand Lotion Set

Winter = dry hands. A little lotion trio is practical and feels fancy.

  1. Holiday Socks

The louder, the better. Think snowflakes, Santa, reindeer, or even light-up ones if you’re feeling bold.

  1. Desk Toy They Didn’t Know They Needed

Mini slinky, fidget toy, stress ball shaped like a snowman. Just for laughs.

  1. Customized Ornament

With their name, the year, or something random like “#1 Email Responder 2025.” Trust—people love this stuff.

  1. Fancy Tea Sampler

For the non-coffee crowd. Throw in a cute mug or a honey stick if you’re feeling extra.

  1. Holiday Survival Kit

Fill a small bag with gum, snacks, lip balm, Advil, and maybe a tiny candy cane flask (kidding… unless you’re not).

  1. Mini Puzzle or Game

Great for the week between Christmas and New Year when no one is doing real work anyway.

  1. A Cozy Throw Blanket

If your office is always freezing (aren’t they all?), a small cozy blanket is a sweet gesture.

  1. Reusable Coffee Cup

Get one with a cute holiday design or something punny like “Sleigh All Day.”

  1. DIY Cookie Jar Mix

Layer flour, sugar, chocolate chips, and tie a recipe card to the jar. Homemade vibes without baking anything.

  1. Holiday Playlist Link

Not a physical gift, but super fun—make a playlist of holiday hits, office faves, or throwbacks and share it.

  1. Winter Hat or Gloves

If your team’s always out and about, this is useful and season-appropriate.

  1. Charity Donation in Their Name

If you know what they care about, donate a few bucks to a good cause and let them know with a card.

  1. 2026 Desk Calendar

Go funny, go cute, or go scenic. Either way, it’s something they’ll actually use come January.

  1. Holiday Card with a Personal Note

Seriously, don’t underestimate this one. A short, thoughtful message can be way more meaningful than any gift.

That’s a Wrap (Literally)

Holiday gifts for colleagues don’t need to be fancy or expensive. Just a small token to say “Hey, working with you this year didn’t totally ruin me” is more than enough. Pick something low-key, add a bow, maybe throw in a joke, and you’re all set.

Happy holidays and good luck surviving year-end chaos!

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