Company picnics have transformed into dynamic events that seamlessly blend team-building activities with sustainable practices and cutting-edge technology. From virtual/hybrid events to eco-friendly initiatives, organizations are reimagining traditional outdoor gatherings to foster a sense of community and camaraderie among employees in exciting new ways.

The Rise of Outdoor Events

One exciting trend in corporate events is the rise of outdoor company picnics. As companies strive to create a more relaxed and engaging atmosphere for their employees, they are opting for outdoor venues that offer a break from the traditional office setting.

This shift towards outdoor events amongst nature not only boosts employee morale but also fosters team building and promotes a sense of community within the organization, and it’s one we love celebrating at Forest Lodge. We’ve been helping companies plan exciting outdoor events on our 40-acre facility since 1933, and we love incorporating fresh spins on a traditional corporate event, like our popular carnival-themed event hosted amidst our sprawling Maple Grove.

Unique Themes and Activities

Some companies are moving away from traditional company picnics and embracing unique themes and activities to make their corporate events more engaging. From picnics complete with games, food trucks, and outdoor bumper car racing, companies are thinking outside the box when it comes to planning their picnics, and we love suggesting our fan favorites, as well as creative new themes to create a fun atmosphere that will help employees bond and build stronger relationships.

In addition to themed picnics, companies are incorporating interactive activities such as Jeopardy-style competitions, cornhole tournaments, or casino nights into their corporate events. These hands-on experiences not only promote teamwork but also provide a break from the daily routine, allowing employees to relax and unwind in a different setting.

By incorporating unique themes and activities into company picnics, organizations can create memorable experiences that leave a lasting impact on their employees.

Emphasis on Employee Well-being

Company picnics have evolved to prioritize employee well-being through unique and engaging activities. Recent trends in corporate events show an increasing emphasis on creating a relaxing and enjoyable atmosphere for team members to unwind and connect outside of the office. From interactive team-building games to wellness workshops, companies are focusing on fostering a positive work environment that promotes mental health and work-life balance.

Moreover, themed picnics are gaining popularity as they offer employees a chance to immerse themselves in different cultures or experiences. Whether it's a Yellowstone-themed party or an Epcot-themed event, these themes add an element of excitement and creativity to the traditional company picnic setting.

Virtual Options and Hybrid Models

With the rise of remote work and virtual events, companies are exploring new ways to connect with employees through company picnics. Virtual options have become increasingly popular, allowing teams to come together in a digital setting while still enjoying the benefits of a fun and interactive picnic experience. From virtual games and activities to online team-building exercises, companies are finding creative ways to engage their employees in a unique and innovative manner.

As we navigate through a post-pandemic world, hybrid models for company picnics are also gaining traction. By combining both virtual and in-person elements, companies can cater to employees who prefer different modes of participation or who may not be geographically close but still need to participate.

This approach allows for greater flexibility and inclusivity, ensuring that all team members can feel connected and involved regardless of their location or preferences. At Forest Lodge, we’re well-versed in hosting hybrid events for corporations with a global presence, and we can stream presentations and allow attendees to collaborate with a global audience.

Ultimately, these trends in corporate events reflect a broader shift towards more dynamic and engaging ways of bringing colleagues together for meaningful interactions outside the traditional office environment.

Integration of Team Building Exercises

In recent years, there has been a noticeable trend in corporate events towards integrating team-building exercises into company picnics. These activities serve not only to foster camaraderie among colleagues but also to enhance communication and collaboration within the workforce. Companies are recognizing the importance of creating a strong sense of unity and teamwork among their employees, and company picnics have become an ideal setting for achieving these goals.

The inclusion of team-building exercises at company picnics is seen as a strategic investment in employee engagement and retention. By providing opportunities for employees to work together towards common goals outside of the office environment, companies can strengthen their teams and build a positive corporate culture. This shift towards more interactive and engaging corporate events reflects a growing awareness of the importance of employee satisfaction and well-being in driving business success.

Company picnics are no longer just about socializing with colleagues but have evolved into valuable platforms for enhancing teamwork, communication, and overall employee engagement. By incorporating innovative team-building exercises into these events, companies can create memorable experiences that leave a lasting impact on their workforce. As businesses continue to prioritize employee development and organizational culture, we can expect to see even more creative approaches to team-building in corporate events like company picnics in the future.

At Forest Lodge, we’re even able to offer streaming and virtual capabilities to our themed parties, allowing work-at-home employees and global executives to collaborate and interact throughout the daily events.

The evolving landscape of corporate event planning

Company picnics have evolved from simple gatherings to elaborate events that offer a variety of activities and entertainment options. These trends in corporate events reflect a growing emphasis on employee engagement and wellness within organizations.

By incorporating unique themes, interactive experiences, and team-building opportunities, companies are fostering a sense of community among their employees.

As the demand for more engaging corporate events continues to rise, companies need to stay current with the latest trends to create memorable experiences for their staff. Embracing these innovative approaches to company picnics can increase employee morale, productivity, and overall satisfaction. Consider implementing some of these trends at your next corporate picnic to create a lasting impact on your team members and contact Anthony at Forest Lodge at anthony@forestlodgecatering.com to get started planning your next retreat!