Organizing a picnic for your employees is a fantastic opportunity for everyone to connect and have a wonderful time. With a bit of time and effort, you can pull off a successful event and grow together as a team. Look below to learn about the top things to consider when planning a company picnic.
Why Host a Picnic?
Company picnics are one of the best team-building activities that help integrate your organization from the top-down, regardless of rank or position. A picnic is a low-stress opportunity for everyone to strike up a conversation with one another and relax after some tough days at work. These picnics are also a considerable boost for employee morale and give everyone something fun to look forward to each year.
Figure Out Your Budget
You’ll need to pay for food, entertainment, and the venue at which you’re hosting your picnic. Keep in mind that your costs increase for every added employee who is attending. Keep in mind how much your business can afford to spend before making any significant decisions.
Check the Weather
When planning an outdoor event, one of the most significant factors to consider is what the weather may look like at the time. Try to pick a date where it’s unlikely to be too cold or rainy. If you notice there’s a chance of harsh weather a couple of days ahead of time, you may need to choose a different venue or postpone the event.
Choose the Right Time
Your picnic should be a reward for your employee’s hard work, so you should host your event during regular business hours in the morning or early evening. If you make everyone attend during their time, it will seem more like an obligation than a treat. If you’re allowing them to bring their family, especially children, you might want to plan it closer to the end of the day to cater to school schedules.
Food and Drink Are Very Important
One of the top things to consider when planning a company picnic is what everyone will eat and drink. Make sure you have a variety of beverages available, including water, tea, soda, and juice, as well as coolers filled with ice. You can create a potluck list where everyone signs up to bring a specific dish or have their picnic catered for.
Pick Some Fun Games and Activities
Activities give a workplace picnic more purpose and encourage everyone to socialize with each other. You should choose the games and activities based on your goals for the event and who you’ve invited. Some examples include the following:
- Arts and crafts station
- Karaoke
- DJ
- Scavenger hunt
- Three-legged race
- Horseshoes
- Lawn bowling
- Trivia contest
- Corn hole
- Egg toss
With a bit of thoughtfulness, you’ll create a memorable event that your employees will think fondly about all year. Your staff will also improve their collaboration between departments and be happier and more productive at work afterward.
