10 Unique Holiday Team Activities in Coachella Valley, CA

The holiday season is a perfect opportunity to show appreciation for your team while creating memorable experiences that build camaraderie. Whether your team enjoys outdoor adventures, relaxing dinners, or something in between, the Coachella Valley offers a wide array of activities to cater to all interests. From scenic landscapes to local events, there are plenty of ways to celebrate the holiday season with your team in this unique desert oasis. Here are ten ideas to inspire your company’s next team-building activity or holiday outing.

1. Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

Take your team to new heights with a trip on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. This scenic tram ride lifts your group from the desert floor to the mountain peaks, offering breathtaking views of the Coachella Valley. Once at the top, your team can enjoy dining, hiking, or simply taking in the scenery. It’s an ideal way to escape the hustle and bustle of the office and enjoy a peaceful, nature-filled holiday team outing.

2. Hot Air Balloon Ride in Palm Desert

For teams looking to add a little thrill to their holiday celebration, a hot air balloon ride over the stunning desert landscape is an unforgettable experience. Balloon rides offer panoramic views of Palm Desert and surrounding areas, making it a perfect way to enjoy the beauty of the valley while bonding with your colleagues. Many local companies provide group rides, ensuring that everyone gets a chance to experience the wonder of floating above the desert.

3. Coachella Valley Preserve

If your team loves outdoor adventures, consider organizing a group hike at the Coachella Valley Preserve. This natural oasis offers miles of hiking trails through palm oases, sand dunes, and stunning vistas. It’s a refreshing way to encourage teamwork while also providing time to reflect and recharge in a peaceful, scenic setting. End the hike with a picnic to celebrate your team’s hard work throughout the year.

4. Living Desert Zoo & Gardens

A visit to the Living Desert Zoo & Gardens is both educational and entertaining, making it an excellent option for a holiday team-building activity. The zoo offers various team-building programs, allowing your group to learn about desert wildlife and ecosystems while exploring the gardens and exhibits. It’s a unique experience that mixes fun with learning, ideal for teams of all sizes and interests.

5. Old Town La Quinta

For a more relaxed holiday outing, take your team to Old Town La Quinta. This charming area offers an array of local shops, restaurants, and galleries, perfect for a leisurely afternoon of holiday shopping and dining. After exploring, treat your team to dinner at one of the many local restaurants known for their farm-to-table menus and inviting atmospheres. It’s a great way to wind down and celebrate the season in a laid-back, festive environment.

Photo from Desert Sun

6. Golf Cart Parade in Palm Desert

The Golf Cart Parade is a beloved tradition in Palm Desert and an ideal event for a fun and festive team outing. Taking place in the fall, this parade features creatively decorated golf carts parading down the street, spreading holiday cheer. Your team can either watch from the sidelines and enjoy the local festivities or get more involved by decorating a company golf cart and participating in the parade. Either way, it’s a lighthearted way to bond and celebrate the holidays together while engaging with the local community.

7. Strayboots Holiday Team Building Adventure

Take your team on a holiday adventure they’ll never forget with Strayboots, a unique team-building experience that blends fun challenges, exploration, and problem-solving. Strayboots offers interactive scavenger hunts tailored to your team’s preferences, allowing them to explore local landmarks, solve puzzles, and complete tasks in a lively and engaging environment. It’s an excellent way to foster collaboration, creativity, and camaraderie, all while enjoying the festive spirit. Strayboots’ customizable team-building activities make it easy to create a memorable holiday outing that everyone will enjoy.

8. Wine Tasting in Temecula

For a more relaxed and sophisticated holiday outing, consider taking your team on a wine-tasting tour in Temecula, located just outside the Coachella Valley. The region is known for its scenic vineyards and excellent wines, making it a perfect destination for a day trip. Many wineries offer group packages that include guided tours and tastings, allowing your team to enjoy the beautiful landscape while sampling some of the best wines Southern California has to offer. This is a great way to celebrate the holidays in a calm, laid-back environment, giving your team a chance to unwind and bond over a shared experience.

9. Holiday Party at a Local Resort

For a more traditional holiday celebration, consider hosting your company’s holiday party at one of the luxurious resorts in the Coachella Valley. From La Quinta Resort to the JW Marriott Desert Springs, there are numerous options that provide beautiful settings, customizable event spaces, and exceptional catering services. A holiday party at a resort allows your team to relax and enjoy the festivities while leaving the planning and logistics to the professionals. It’s a way to show appreciation for your team’s hard work throughout the year in a beautiful, stress-free environment.

10. Volunteer at FIND Food Bank

Giving back to the community is a meaningful way to bond with your team during the holiday season. Organize a volunteer day at FIND Food Bank, where your team can work together to sort and distribute food to families in need. This charity-focused activity is not only fulfilling but also fosters a sense of unity and purpose within your team. It’s a chance to reflect on the year, make a positive impact, and start the new year with a strong sense of shared values and social responsibility.

Conclusion

The holiday season is about more than just celebrating; it’s a time to foster connections, build stronger teams, and give back to the community. With the wealth of activities available in Coachella Valley, there are plenty of options to create memorable experiences for your team. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or community engagement, these local ideas are sure to make your holiday season both meaningful and enjoyable.

Let iPay Solutions take care of your payroll and HR needs so you can focus on what truly matters – your people. Schedule a meeting with us!