Involving staff in the choice of party format always works, but do it smartly. Don't ask an open question ('what do you want to do?'), because then you get ten different answers. Give choices.
A short poll (via email, Teams or WhatsApp) with two to three options is enough. Ask questions like: Activity preference: sport, creative, or culinary? Preferred timing: a weekday evening or Friday? Type of venue: own location, city, or outdoors?
Make the outcome visible: share what was chosen and why. That gives staff the feeling their vote mattered, even if their first choice didn't make it. Engagement before the party demonstrably increases participation and enjoyment during the party.