Festive celebrations, personalised: Neuroinclusive alternatives to the traditional Christmas party

Guest blog by Andy Williamson from Welcome Brain

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At Welcome Brain, our core thesis on neuroinclusion is simple: neuroinclusion means personalisation.

People celebrate, socialise, and recharge in different ways. When organisations design festive events with this in mind, end-of-year celebrations become more inclusive, more enjoyable, and often more meaningful for everyone involved.

With 15- 20% of the population being neurodivergent, personalisation is no longer niche. It is a practical approach that benefits entire teams, including many neurotypical colleagues who appreciate clarity, choice, and lower-pressure ways to connect.

Start by asking, not assuming

The most effective neuroinclusive celebrations often begin with a simple step - actually asking people what they think!

A short, anonymous, low-friction check-in before plans are finalised can invite input without putting anyone on the spot. Questions might include preferred types of activities, times of day, or whether people would value one

shared event or several smaller options.

Anonymity matters. It allows people to answer honestly and signals that different preferences are expected and welcome.

Positive alternatives that work for many people

When organisations broaden their idea of what a festive celebration can be, they often discover options that are popular across the board.

●      Smaller social gatherings Festive lunches, breakfasts, or small-group meals during the workday reduce pressure, support conversation, and fit more easily around busy lives.

●      Activity-based celebrationsShared experiences such as hands-on cooking or tasting sessions, creative workshops, live demonstrations, or a seasonal outing that ends somewhere lively for food or drinks provide natural structure. This gives people something to enjoy together, making socialising feel easier, more relaxed, and more fun - while also keeping the traditionalists happy!

●      Alcohol as an option, not the focus Neuroinclusive design does not require banning alcohol. Instead, it means ensuring that drinking is optional rather than central. Successful events often include alcohol alongside high-quality non-alcoholic options (there is a huge range of amazing mocktails available, as well as zero-alcohol beer and wine that you can offer people), with food or activities providing the main focus.

●      Purpose-led celebrations Volunteering or charity-based activities followed by a shared meal can offer structure, meaning, and a strong sense of connection.

●      Choice-based models Some organisations offer a small menu of equally valued options, such as a team lunch, an activity, a voucher, or a charitable donation. Everyone participates, but in a way that suits them best.

Small details that increase comfort

Whatever the format, a few thoughtful design choices make celebrations easier to enjoy.

Consider this ‘quick wins’ that provide huge amounts of benefit to neurodivergent attendees without requiring a huge amount of effort:

●      clear start and end times

●      predictable structure shared in advance

●      manageable sound and lighting

●      clearly labelled food options

●      explicit permission to step away or leave early

These details support neurodivergent colleagues and are often appreciated by neurotypical team members, too.

Learn for next year

After celebrations take place, a short anonymous follow-up helps organisations learn what worked and what could improve. Over time, this feedback loop builds trust and leads to better, more inclusive design.

At both Welcome Brain and NeuroPlaces, the focus is on how environments and experiences shape who feels able to participate. Festive celebrations are no different. When organisations design with personalisation and choice in mind, they create moments that more people can genuinely enjoy.

A successful end-of-year celebration is not defined by energy levels or volume, but by how many people feel welcome to take part. Allowing people to truly personalise their experience is at the heart of good hospitality - and is the essence of inclusion.

Want to build a more neuroinclusive workplace? Visit Welcome Brain's website today to find out more! Meet Andy and team in person at NeuroPlaces 2026, stand P2.

Welcome Brain Website