Office parties are a great way to build team camaraderie, especially when there are new or out-of-state team members.

But getting people to talk to each other at a party is hard. Parties that lack a good start can live on in infamy for many seasons and may cause a cringe state at the next catch-up with your co-workers around the office water cooler. 

So, if you’re organizing an office party, here’s how to jazz it up with some local Cincinnati flavor.

Let There Be Cincinnati Chili

Cincinnati is known for its rich culinary heritage and vibrant food culture. And there is no reason that your office party should not reflect this atmosphere.

People all over the country recognize Cincinnati chili as quintessentially Cincinnatian. It’s a local treasure, and a chili topping challenge can be the perfect way to break the ice. Letting your guests craft their chili masterpieces can inspire conversation around good food. Mwah! 

Set up a counter with all the usual fixings like beans, onions, shredded cheese, and oyster crackers, plus spaghetti and hot dogs. 

Suggested Toppings for the Chili Bar

• Beans
• Onions
• Shredded cheese
• Oyster crackers

And then let’s unleash your guests to create their versions. 

This idea can spark conversations about an individual’s chili preferences and serve as a delicious entrée into Cincinnati’s food culture.

Dine, Wine, and Beverages

Craft beer is big in Cincinnati, and a tasting session is an excellent kickoff for any party. 

Provide a selection from renowned local breweries alongside local non-alcoholic options like artisan sodas. Encourage guests to vote on their favorite brews, turning it into a relaxed, conversational starter. 

Beverages, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, play a vital role in creating a comfortable atmosphere at professional gatherings. Party planners must keep the vibe light and ensure the ambiance remains professional. You can try to pre-set a drink limit for the party or offer plenty of food and non-alcoholic alternatives.

A Cincinnati-Themed Quiz Contest

The next on our party icebreakers list will surely be a hit. Compile a list of trivia questions about Cincinnati—from its major sports teams to historic landmarks and famous residents and set the stage for a friendly trivia contest. 

Dividing your guests into teams can foster friendly competition and ensure no one feels left out. 

Introduce lesser-known facts, like unique local markets or secret spots beloved by locals, to give newcomers intriguing insights into the city. 

You can also include some ad hoc “hot seat” questions where new residents share their favorite aspects of Cincinnati. These off-the-cuff interactions can promote engaging conversations and help everyone learn more about the city in a fun setting.

Music and Dance

Music and dance are universal icebreakers that bring people together. Start with a playlist of songs from Cincinnati artists to set a lively atmosphere. 

Introduce a simple group dance—a line dance or something easy to learn—to get everyone moving and interacting. Having the beginning of the dance mapped out will energize the crowd and create lasting memories. Plus, it will bring out the shy co-workers from their shells.

If it suits the event’s tone, conclude this section with a performance by a local band, enriching the party with an authentic musical touch.

A Venue to Remember

Choosing the right venue is crucial. It can inform the mood and the tone of the whole event.

Look for places symbolizing Cincinnati’s spirit, such as venues near art galleries or riverside patios. Consider the venue’s connectivity and proximity to the office, especially if guests need to return to work or travel safely home afterward. 

Ensuring the venue supports local vendors and that you’re familiar with its policies can eliminate any last-minute hiccups with catering, sound and lights, or the dance floor set-up for your office party.

This comes especially in handy if you’re planning any custom or gourmet experience like hiring a private chef

A Selfie Booth 

Set up a themed photo booth with iconic Cincinnati props, like miniature Roebling Bridges or flying pigs—yeah, both are as Cincinnatian as they come. 

Let guests take creative selfies and get them to post these online with a unique hashtag and a social media giveaway. 

This engagement can help people bond quickly, increase the visibility of your effort in front of your boss, and help with internal branding. Consider having a social media-savvy team member host a live session once the party hits its stride, showcasing the fun and dynamic atmosphere. 

A selfie booth can capture memories and amplify team spirit and engagement across platforms.

Selfie Booth

• Use props (including Cincinnati themed ones).
• Lay out hats, glasses, boas, plus miniature Roebling Bridges and flying pigs.
• Set up a well-lit area with additional soft lights.
• Use backgrounds.
• Host a giveaway to encourage sharing selfies online.
• Host a live session during the party.

Cheers Cincinnati

Office parties can be a celebration of your work community and serve to improve professional relationships. With its unique blend of tradition and modernity, office parties can become unforgettable events with great memories. 

If you want to take your party planning to the next level, consider hiring a private chef in Cincinnati for a small office gathering.  And make sure you start your party off right with these suggestions. Leave a comment if you have any more ideas you want to share.