As we move into the holiday season, it appears that no one is indifferent to holiday office luncheons and parties.  Twitter has begun to flood with snarky comments on the subject.  Some of us enjoy planning and participating in these events while others dread them like the plague.  We recently asked a few colleagues what they like and dislike regarding holiday gatherings in the office.  This little survey was then translated into the following two top 10 lists just in time for the Thanksgiving holiday! 

Top Reasons We Love Holiday Office Gatherings

1. I love the way everyone comes together to plan a great meal and time together.
2. Where else can we get a great Thanksgiving meal without doing anything but paying my $3?
3. I love the homemade pumpkin pies and desserts! 
4. It’s so nice to be able to interact with the boss in an informal setting. 
5. The diversity of our staff always ensures a delicious variety of foods. 
6. I love the camaraderie amongst the staff.  
7. Making our own decorations is a lot of fun.
8. It’s nice to hear what everyone is thankful for this year.
9. Everyone looks so festive in their fall colors!
10. It’s unpatriotic to not celebrate Thanksgiving! Even the Canadians celebrate Thanksgiving!  

Top Reasons We Hate Holiday Office Gatherings

1. I volunteered to organize this luncheon because I thought it would be fun. It isn’t – no one is interested in helping. Do they think these luncheons just magically happen? 
2. Three people signed up to bring dressing and no one did.  How can we have turkey without dressing?
3. I get so tired of grocery store pies and cookies.  Doesn’t anyone know how to make a real dessert?
4. I always get stuck sitting next to the boss. He’s a messy eater and I never know what to say to him.
5. All those vegan dishes are more than I can handle.
6. It’s enough that I have to work with people I don’t like. I shouldn’t have to share a meal with them too.
7. Did a kindergarten class make our decorations this year? These are pathetic!  Who knew pilgrims looked like Shrek?
8. If I have to listen to one more person say how thankful they are to be working here, I’m going to get sick.
9. Bedazzled appliqué sweaters make me feel I’m watching the Quacker Factory lady on QVC.  Frightening….
10. I don’t like my job.  I hate turkey and I’m Canadian. Our thanksgiving was last month.