9 outdoor corporate event ideas to engage your team

A recent Gallup survey revealed that only 34 % of employees actually feel engaged in their work. That means 66 % are simply going through the motions. 

Team building activities have been shown to boost productivity by over 30% – yet most companies stick to the same boring Friday drinks and miss out on outdoor adventures that truly bring people together. 

Nobody gets excited at the thought of soggy sandwiches, lukewarm coffee, and awkward ice-breakers in the break room. But outdoor corporate events? They’re a whole different ball game. Studies show that stepping outside has a positive effect on attention span and well-being, sparks innovation, and tightens team bonds.

That’s why we’ve rounded up 9 outdoor corporate event ideas to kill boredom, reignite passion, and turn dull gatherings into energized, unforgettable moments.

1. Host a team building obstacle course

Obstacle courses aren’t just for gym class. They’re silly, fun, and surprisingly great for teamwork. All you need are simple props like cones, rope, pool noodles, and blindfolds. Mix physical and mental challenges across 6–10 stations and watch your team bond while having some ridiculous fun. 

Keep safety in mind. Space stations out, do a quick safety check, have water and first aid handy, and assign someone to manage the day. And don’t forget a plan B for bad weather.

2. Plan a creative outdoor scavenger hunt

Ditch the usual team day for a scavenger hunt powered by apps like GooseChase or Scavify. Load it with quirky clues, photo challenges, and a live scoreboard to keep things exciting. 

Divide people into teams, craft clues that reflect your company’s personality, and throw in puzzles and dares to keep everyone on their toes. Kick off with a quick briefing, then end with snacks and awards to celebrate the winners.

3. Organise a picnic with lawn games

Find a spacious, shady spot in your local park (preferably with picnic tables and toilets nearby). Bring easy-to-learn lawn games where everyone can join in – like Kubb, frisbee, giant Jenga, and bocce ball. 

Serve food before the games to keep hunger at bay, and plan a loose schedule – welcome, icebreaker, meal, games, and a friendly tournament. Don’t forget essentials like sunscreen, water, music, and a camera for capturing the fun. A photo booth or branded goodies add extra flair.

4. Set up an outdoor movie night

If you prefer a cosier atmosphere, host an outdoor movie night. Pick a flat, quiet spot away from streetlights, check the weather, and make sure you have the necessary permits.

You don’t need fancy gear – in fact you don’t need any equipment at all! Skylight Cinema is an outdoor cinema hire that takes care of everything from screen to speakers. They’ll even send a technician to make sure everything runs smoothly.

Bring blankets, bean bags, lawn chairs – anything soft and snuggly. Space them out so no one's elbowing anyone during the big twist. Bonus points for bug spray, hand sanitiser, and extra throws for when the temperature dips.

Make sure to stock up on snacks like popcorn, sweets, and fizzy drinks. If you really want to class it up, hire a mobile bar with custom cocktails and mocktails. Or order pre-batched cocktails that guests can serve themselves.  

5. Make a splash with outdoor water activities

When deadlines have everyone heated, cool things down with water balloon tosses, adult slip ‘n’ slides, and sponge relays. For those less keen on getting damp, create a ‘no splash’ zone with lawn games or water painting.

Choose a spot with shade, water access, and changing facilities. Bring towels, sunscreen, dry clothes, first aid kits, and plenty of water. Assign a sober supervisor to keep things safe.

Start with a warm-up, explain the rules, and consider mini-tournaments. End with a big group balloon toss – nothing bonds a team like a good soak. This splashy team building event idea brings out everyone's playful side.

6. Organise a guided nature hike

Swap the office buzz for fresh air and great views. An easy guided hike lets your team relax and chat side-by-side. Check trail difficulty, parking, toilets, and necessary equipment beforehand to avoid surprises. Pick the season that suits your crew – spring blooms, summer fields, autumn colours, or crisp winter mornings.

As always, safety first. Share what clothing and shoes to wear, gather health info, and plan for any special needs or accommodations. Make it special by turning it into a sensory walk, sound hunt, or nature photo contest.

7. Host an outdoor fitness challenge

If fitness is a big deal to your team, a corporate fitness challenge might be just your speed. With the right energy, they can feel more like an office adventure than a dreaded step-count spreadsheet. 

Keep things fresh with team relays and circuit-style activities. Set up fun stations – think wall sits, balance games or light agility drills where people can move how they like, without feeling the pressure.

To build team spirit, mix up the format with group challenges. Balanced teams and shared goals mean no one’s left behind, and everyone feels like they’re contributing. But don’t forget the solo stars. Let individuals track their own “personal bests” so they can celebrate their progress without needing to outpace anyone else. 

8. Do a DIY craft day outdoors

Are you a team of creatives at heart? Get crafty with paint, scissors, and sunshine. Set up tables with easy, low-mess craft ideas like painted pots, tote bags, mosaic tiles, and rock art. 

Keep instructions clear, provide wipes and bins, and add shade if needed. Provide crafts that tie into your company vibe or inside jokes. Have tents or a backup space ready in case of bad weather.

9. Throw a pop-up food festival

Turn your company parking lot into a food lover’s dream with food trucks serving a mix of culinary comfort and sweet treats. Make sure you account for all dietary needs to keep everyone happy.  

Don’t stop at the food. Great vibes make great memories. Play some background music, hang up fairy lights, set up tables, and give people little moments to remember.

A mobile bar provides the finishing touch 

To take your outdoor corporate event to the next level, a mobile bar is a must. Our bespoke mobile bartending packages bring sophistication, style, and serious fun to your outdoor event. 

Whether you’re toasting after a team-building obstacle course or unwinding beneath the stars at an outdoor movie night, our expert mixologists, beautifully designed bars, and custom drink menus will add that special touch that your team won’t forget.