Is it safe to attend the company holiday party this year?

It's peak company holiday party season, and there are more variables to consider this year compared to last, when most events were either cancelled outright or relegated to virtual schmoozing. 

Now, some employers are eager to reprise the annual tradition in person, emboldened by COVID-19  vaccine requirements and other safety protocols that can make smaller gatherings seem relatively low-risk. So with virus rates seeing a winter spike and the Omicron variant making an appearance, what will holiday parties circa 2021 look like, and is it safe to attend?

Although holiday parties are back, they'll differ markedly from pre-pandemic celebrations. If not, they aren't safe, health experts told CBS MoneyWatch.