Holiday Messages Your Team Will Love
Recognition
November 21, 2025
Taryn Hart
X min
Recognition
November 21, 2025
Taryn Hart
X min
The end of the year isn’t just about wrapping presents — it’s about wrapping up people in gratitude. Recognition is one of the most meaningful gifts you can give your team. As 2025 comes to a close, take time to acknowledge hard work, celebrate wins, and show appreciation for every contribution — big and small.
Here’s what you’ll find in this article:
The holiday season is a time of warmth, togetherness, and spreading joy. As a manager or leader, it's the perfect opportunity to recognize your hardworking team, celebrate a great year and extend well-wishes for the festive time ahead.
It’s important to remember that there are many cultural and religious celebrations happening this time of year. Whether you're celebrating Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Rohatsu, Diwali, or simply the season itself, sending thoughtful holiday messages to your employees can foster a sense of belonging and inclusion. Here are some dates to keep in mind:
Here are practical, fun and meaningful ways to build inclusive holiday recognition into your end-of-year culture.
Start with an inclusive holiday calendar. It’s not just about major holidays like Christmas or Hanukkah — it’s about acknowledging them and the many others (Kwanzaa, Lunar New Year, Diwali, etc), as well as secular moments like “Year-End Reflection”.
Tip: Using a broad, inclusive recognition calendar (cultural observances, heritage months, etc.) helps support diverse teams. Having a diverse calendar handy can help you stay on top of your recognition and culture initiatives throughout the year, so no holiday gets missed. Subscribe to our newsletter and be the first to get the Kudos 2026 Celebrations Calendar sent right to your inbox when it's ready.
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Tweak your tone and use general, positive language: “As we reach the end of the year, thank you for every story, every contribution, every unique way you bring your whole self to work.” Celebrate milestones and contributions beyond the formal reward, and highlight inclusive values like empathy, mentorship, cultural awareness.
For example: “Thank you, Maya, for always bringing curiosity and openness to our team — your willingness to share your Diwali tradition opened up a whole new connection for the team.”
Inclusive holiday recognition doesn’t work if it’s top-down only. Encourage peer recognition, contributions to the recognition program, and let employees nominate their colleagues.
In inclusive recognition, geography, time zone and work model matter. For distributed or hybrid teams, ensure recognition works across time, place and culture.
Inclusive recognition isn’t a one-off. Use this season to gather data, reflect, and improve. Track recognition by department, location, role, demographic if available. Are some groups under-represented? Were all voices recognized this year? Plan for next year, and make inclusive recognition part of your regular rhythm, not just holiday season.
👉 For more inspiration, read 8 Inclusive Holiday Recognition Ideas
Let’s explore examples of holiday messages that can brighten your team's spirits during this special time of year.
Dear Team,
As we reflect on the year gone by, I am struck by the extraordinary spirit that each one of you has demonstrated. Your resilience, commitment, and camaraderie have been the cornerstone of our success, making [Company Name] more than a workplace, but a true community.
This time of year reinforces the importance of connection, kindness, and the joy of giving back. Even as we pause to enjoy the holiday season with loved ones, let's carry these values into the coming year and beyond.
Looking ahead, 2026 promises new adventures, challenges, and triumphs. I am confident that with our shared energy and passion, there's no limit to what we can achieve together.
Wishing you a joyous, restful holiday season, and a vibrant New Year filled with hope and happiness.
Warmest regards,
[Your Name]
Hello Everyone,
As we approach the end of another prosperous year, I wanted to take a moment to thank you all for your outstanding contributions and dedication to our organization. Your hard work and commitment have played a crucial role in our success, and I am truly grateful for the effort you've put into making this year a great one for all of us.
As we head into the holiday season, I encourage you to take a well-deserved break and spend quality time with your loved ones. It's a time to recharge, reflect on our achievements, and create cherished memories with those who matter most.
The coming year holds new opportunities and challenges, and I am confident that, with your continued dedication and hard work, we will achieve even greater success!
I wish you all a joyous and restful holiday!
[Your Name]
Dear Team,
What a year it's been!
The holiday season is upon us, and as we gear up to bid farewell to another remarkable year, it's the perfect time to spread some festive cheer and express our heartfelt gratitude for your fantastic contributions.
We've navigated through ups, downs, and unexpected plot twists, and through it all, your dedication and enthusiasm have shone bright.
While you deck the halls and enjoy your holiday feasts, I hope you find time to relax, unwind, and create unforgettable memories with loved ones. Here's to laughter, joy, and all the good vibes as we welcome a brand-new year!
Thank you for being an integral part of our amazing team. Let's recharge our enthusiasm batteries and tackle new adventures together in the year ahead.
Happy Holidays!
[Your Name]
Hello All,
As the year draws to a close, I wanted to take a moment to express my sincere gratitude for your exceptional contributions to our team and organization throughout the year.
2025 has been a year filled with challenges and triumphs, and your dedication, hard work, and commitment have been the driving force behind our success. It is a time to reflect on our achievements, celebrate the joys of the season, and look forward to the opportunities that the new year will bring.
On behalf of the entire [Company Name] family, I would like to wish you and your loved ones a joyous holiday season filled with warmth, happiness, and good health.
Thank you once again for your dedication and hard work. I am incredibly proud to have you all as part of our team, and here’s to a prosperous 2026!
With gratitude,
[Your Name]
Dear Team,
As we approach the end of 2025, it's a perfect time to reflect on the past year's achievements. I want to extend my warmest wishes to each and every one of you. May your hearts be filled with joy, peace, and togetherness during this time of year.
Season's Greetings to you and your families. Thank you for your hard work and dedication!
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Hello everyone,
Your dedication, creativity, and teamwork have made this year remarkable. Thanks for everything you all have done, and may this break bring you good times and rejuvenation.
Enjoy the season! Here’s to an even stronger 2026.
[Sign off]
Dear team,
As we turn the page on 2025, i'm so grateful for every contribution you each bring to our team. Your efforts and hard work truly moved us forward.
Here’s to the close of one year and the beginning of another. Your consistency, collaboration and heart have powered our success. Take time to celebrate, reflect and recharge because you’ve earned it!
Warm wishes to everyone!
[Sign off]
Hello everyone,
I want to take this opportunity to express my heartfelt appreciation for all your exceptional performances this past year – your commitment to our shared goals and values is truly commendable.
Whether it was meeting tight deadlines, going the extra mile to assist colleagues, or consistently delivering top-notch results, your efforts have not gone unnoticed. Our success this past year is because of all of you, and I am truly grateful.
As we reflect on 2025, I hope you all take some well-deserved time to rest, relax, and enjoy the company of your loved ones – you all deserve it! May your holiday season be filled with warmth, love, and just the right amount of festive indulgence.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
[Your Name]
Dear [Company Name] Family,
As we wrap up another successful year, I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude for your dedication and hard work. May this Christmas bring you joy, love, and well-deserved rest. Enjoy the holiday season with your loved ones, and may the new year ahead be filled with exciting opportunities.
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!
Warm regards,
[Your Name]
Spreading holiday cheer in the workplace is not only a kind gesture but also a great way to foster a sense of unity and appreciation among your team. Encouraging all your team members to send recognition will give that extra boost of motivation before the year ends.
Remember, it's not just about the specific holiday but the sentiment behind your message that matters. Recognition is appreciated any time of the year and is the true gift that keeps on giving.
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