If there’s one thing that’ll get Gen Z to step away from their screens and into a store, it’s the promise of something fun—like an exclusive in-store event or a holiday-themed pop-up shop. Sure, they can buy their gifts online, but where’s the fun in that? What you want to do is create an atmosphere that feels like the North Pole exploded in your store, minus the reindeer. Think hot cocoa bars, gingerbread decorating stations, or even DIY gift-wrapping workshops where shoppers can customize their own holiday wrapping paper. Kitchy? Sure, but subtle decor isn’t much of a draw when it comes to a TikTok video.

Better yet, invite a local artist to host a pop-up shop or bring in some influencers to co-host a holiday event. Not only will it get people in the door, but it’ll also give them an experience that goes beyond browsing through racks. And the best part? They’ll likely stick around longer (and spend more) because it feels like they’re part of something exclusive.

Gen Z grew up with smartphones in their hands, so if you’re not offering some sort of tech-savvy experience, you’re way too trad. Experiential doesn’t mean ignoring the digital side of things. Luckily, interactive displays are the perfect way to combine shopping with a little bit of tech magic. Want to let your customers virtually try on clothes without dealing with a fitting room line? Install an augmented reality (AR) mirror. Shoppers can see how that puffer jacket looks on them in real-time, no awkward undressing required.

Or take a page from IKEA’s playbook and let customers use AR to visualize how home goods will look in their space—because nothing screams holiday stress like buying the wrong-size rug. By making the shopping experience more interactive and engaging, you’re creating a fun, tech-forward vibe that appeals to Gen Z’s need for instant gratification.

If your store isn’t giving shoppers a place to take that perfect festive pic, Reel, or TikTok, you’re missing out on some serious free advertising. Gen Z loves sharing their experiences on social media, so give them something to show off. Create Instagram-worthy displays—think oversized ornaments, glittering trees, or a giant “snow” backdrop where they can pose for their holiday #OOTD (outfit of the day, for those of us still catching up). You can even encourage social posts by providing a phone stand for pictures & video.

Don’t be afraid to get creative. Add in some props (Santa hats, anyone?), and before you know it, your store will be all over their social feeds. Bonus points if you encourage them to tag your store and offer a little something in return, like a holiday discount or entry into a giveaway. User generated content can be a way to stand out from your competition during this crowded holiday season.

Clienteling is no longer just for your biggest spenders—it’s for everyone, especially during the holiday rush. Gen Z loves a personalized experience. They don’t want to feel like they’re just another shopper in a sea of people; they want to feel special, catered to, and—dare we say it—like the main character. This holiday season, you can offer personalized shopping experiences like styling appointments, gift consultations, or even in-store shopping tours where customers get one-on-one attention.

And here’s the kicker: you can also reach shoppers at home by offering virtual styling sessions via TikTok or Instagram DM. If it goes well, it’s another reason for them to come into your store. Giving shoppers that extra level of personalization will make them feel seen and appreciated, making them more likely to spend time engaging with your brand (and your sales reps) and walk away with more than just the one item they came in for.

You know how concert tickets sell out in seconds because everyone wants in on the hottest event? You can do the same with your products. Create exclusive product drops or limited-edition holiday items to generate hype around your brand. Gen Z loves the thrill of snagging something before it’s gone, and nothing drives them more than the fear of missing out (aka FOMO).

Here’s the play: announce the drop on TikTok or Instagram with a countdown to build anticipation. When the items go live, make it an event—whether it’s an in-store exclusive or a TikTok Shop release, the excitement will get people lining up (virtually or IRL). And because the items are limited, they’ll feel special for having gotten their hands on them. It’s like Supreme drops, but with holiday cheer.

Gen Z loves a good challenge (just look at TikTok’s endless stream of viral trends), so why not turn holiday shopping into one? Launch a holiday-themed challenge or competition that encourages shoppers to engage with your store in a fun and festive way. It could be a scavenger hunt, where shoppers have to find hidden holiday items in-store for a prize, or a "#bestholidayoutfit" challenge where they try on and post their favorite looks from your collection.

Encourage your audience to post their entries on TikTok or Instagram, and offer rewards like gift cards, exclusive products, or even a VIP shopping experience. Partnering with an influencer or two to spark the trend can be a big help here. Not only does a trending competition get people interacting with your brand, it also creates buzz and spreads the word to their social circles. Win-win.

Who doesn’t love a little live entertainment? Whether it’s holiday carolers, a local band, or even a surprise visit from Santa, adding live performances to your store can make the shopping experience feel magical. Again, hit them with something unique and unexpected. Even if it’s cheesy, it’ll be something worth popping into your store for.

Keep in mind, this isn’t just about creating a festive atmosphere (although that’s a bonus)—it’s about keeping customers in your store longer. The longer they stay, the more likely they are to buy. Plus, it gives them a reason to come back, especially if they know there’s always something fun and exciting happening at your store during the holiday season.