How to make your work Christmas party Deaf-friendly (and actually fun for everyone)
- Elisa Nuevo Vallín
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
It’s nearly Christmas! 🎄 The decorations are up, the office group chat is buzzing, and there’s at least one person already wearing tinsel to meetings. Work Christmas parties are meant to be fun; a chance to relax, laugh too loudly, and pretend your boss’s dance moves aren’t that bad.
But for Deaf people, these events can go from festive to frustrating fast. Background noise, low lighting, overlapping conversations… It’s basically a lipreading nightmare with mince pies.
So, before you grab that mistletoe and playlist, here’s how to make sure your Deaf colleagues are not just invited, but actually included. Because no one likes being the only one pretending to laugh at a punchline they didn’t catch.
🎅 10 Ways to Make Your Work Christmas Party Inclusive and Deaf-Friendly
1. Actually tell them it’s happening
You’d be surprised how many Deaf employees find out about the Christmas party after it’s happened. Send the invite clearly, in writing, and with details about time, place, and activities. And yes, encourage them to come!
2. Round tables > long tables
You know what’s not Deaf-friendly? Sitting at the end of a never-ending table where everyone talks at once. Round tables let Deaf colleagues see everyone’s faces and follow who’s speaking.
✨Bonus: it also stops that one person from monopolising the conversation.
3. Keep faces visible
No talking while chewing, turning away mid-sentence, or chatting across the table with your mouth hidden behind your wine glass. Deaf colleagues can’t lipread what they can’t see, and trust us, no one looks classy mid-chew anyway.
4. Avoid “Dinner Table Syndrome”
It’s not just about hearing, it’s about belonging. Don’t let conversations happen around someone. Get their attention before speaking, wave, or tap gently on the shoulder. You’ll make them feel seen (literally).
5. Brush up on your BSL
You don’t need to sign like a pro; even knowing a few basic Christmas signs goes a long way. Ask your Deaf colleague to show you some festive ones: “Merry Christmas”, “Thank you”, or “One more drink, please.” It’s a great icebreaker. Basic BSL vocabulary.
6. Book an interpreter early
If your Deaf colleague is a BSL user, ask if they’d like an interpreter at the event. And do it well in advance. Nothing says “inclusion fail” like scrambling to book one the day before.
7. Choose games everyone can join in
Skip “Guess That Tune” (for obvious reasons). Go for games that rely on teamwork, creativity, or visual fun instead. Think charades, quiz rounds with visuals, or even a Christmas meme contest.
8. Don’t forget Secret Santa!
Let your Deaf colleagues know about it beforehand, and when it’s time to open presents, take turns. That way, everyone can follow the reactions and jokes, not just the noise.
9. Music? Oh yes!
Deaf people enjoy music too, especially the rhythm and vibrations. So go ahead, turn up the bass and hit the dance floor. Need proof? Read our blog on How Does a Deaf Person Dance? You’ll never hear “Silent Night” the same way again.
10. Be kind, be aware, and have fun
Inclusion isn’t about getting everything perfect. It’s about making the effort. Smile, make eye contact, share stories, and enjoy being together. That’s what the season’s about, isn’t it?
Deaf awareness doesn’t take a holiday. By making small adjustments, you turn your office party from “awkward” to awesome, and make sure every member of your team leaves feeling included, valued, and maybe just a little too full of mince pies.
Happy Christmas from all of us at Deaf Umbrella 💜
