30 Strategic Corporate Event Entertainment Ideas That Drive Results

Key Takeaways

• The most successful corporate event entertainment ideas have a clear purpose; they strengthen engagement, support learning and boost the company’s culture.
• Corporate event entertainment should be tailored to factors such as company culture, audience size and interests, event format, and other relevant considerations.
• Organise your event entertainment ideas by the outcomes so you can quickly identify what works best and avoid trial and error.
• Eventify turns your corporate event ideas into memorable experiences with its streamlined process and intuitive tools.

Introduction

The right corporate event entertainment ideas can turn tired employees into people who are suddenly collaborating and enjoying themselves. The conversations shift from missed deadlines and KPIs to laughing and sharing inside jokes. Corporate event entertainment ideas aren’t just meant to fill calendars, but also to make people feel like they genuinely belong to an organisation. These moments reinforce a company’s culture and foster relationships that make employees and clients invested in the organisation.  

With multiple corporate event entertainment ideas out there, it can be confusing knowing which to choose to yield the right results. In this guide, we will explore 30 thoughtful and strategic corporate event entertainment ideas, explain what each achieves and match each to the right events.

Why Choosing the Right Corporate Event Entertainment is Crucial?

The right entertainment at a corporate event can be the difference between attendees quietly counting down to leave the event and leaving the room genuinely happy and connected to the organisation. Entertainment isn’t just an event filler; it shapes how employees remember the event long after it is over.

Boost Engagement & Motivation

‍Forget stale lectures and monotonous presentations. Strategic event ideas spark attendee interest and participation. Interactive workshops, team-building challenges, or engaging speaker sessions can transform passive listening into active involvement. When employees are engaged, they're more likely to retain information, feel connected to the company's mission, and approach their work with renewed motivation.

Foster Teamwork & Collaboration

‍Corporate events can be powerful tools for breaking down silos and fostering a collaborative spirit. Team-building activities that require cooperation, communication, and problem-solving skills can help employees build trust with colleagues from different departments. Themed events or social gatherings provide a casual setting for employees to interact outside their usual work dynamic, strengthening bonds and encouraging collaboration across teams.

Enhance Learning & Development

‍Corporate events aren't just about fun and games. They can be springboards for learning and development. Inviting industry experts for keynote speeches or workshops allows employees to gain valuable insights and stay current on industry trends. Skill-sharing sessions empower employees to share their expertise with colleagues, fostering knowledge transfer and professional growth. By incorporating learning opportunities into your event ideas, you invest in your workforce's development, creating a more skilled and adaptable team.

Promote Brand Identity & Culture

‍Corporate events are a chance to showcase your company's brand identity and cultivate a strong company culture. The event theme, activities, and overall atmosphere all contribute to the message you want to convey. A focus on innovation and creativity can be reflected through interactive workshops or hackathons. A desire for a collaborative and inclusive environment can be fostered through team-building games and social gatherings. By aligning your event ideas with your brand values, you create a cohesive experience that strengthens your company culture and attracts top talent who resonate with your vision.

‍Generate Positive PR & Strengthen Relationships

‍Corporate events can be excellent public relations opportunities. Inviting clients, media representatives, or potential partners allows you to showcase your company's expertise, build stronger relationships, and generate positive brand awareness. A well-executed event with engaging activities and valuable takeaways can leave a lasting impression, positioning your company as an industry leader and fostering long-term partnerships.

Things to Consider Before Choosing Entertainment Ideas

When choosing your corporate event entertainment idea, don’t only look for what is impressive on paper or what other companies are doing. You have to intentionally select the experience that aligns with your employees, the event goal and format, the duration, etc. Below are five critical things that should guide your decision;

1. Event objective

Every corporate event starts out with an objective. What do you want to achieve? What change in mindset or behaviour do you want to see in the attendees at the end of the day? The entertainment idea should reinforce the objective, not compete with it. For instance, if the goal is to foster collaboration, then opt for team-based entertainment activities.

2. Know Your Audience

Tailor your entertainment options to the interests and preferences of your target audience. Consider the age range, interests, and energy levels of your attendees. Will a high-energy band appeal to everyone, or would a mix of activities be better? Opt for entertainment that aligns with the overall tone you want to set with your audience.

3. Company Culture

Additionally, entertainment ideas reflect the company’s culture and identity. If a company is highly formal, it is more inclined towards polished entertainment activities. A creative company can lean towards more immersive and playful experiences. What matters is that the entertainment idea shouldn’t clash with the company’s culture.

4. Set a Budget & Plan Early

Choose entertainment options that fit your budget.

• Entertainment can be a significant cost. Determine your event budget early on to narrow down options and avoid last-minute scrambles.
• Popular entertainment options book up fast. Plan and secure your entertainment well in advance, especially for larger events.
  

5. Variety is Key

• Cater to different preferences: Offer a mix of activities to cater to introverts, extroverts, and those seeking active or relaxing options.
• Consider breaks between sessions: Schedule entertainment during breaks or after sessions to keep attendees engaged and energized.
  

6. Think About Logistics & Flow

Consider logistical needs for space, equipment, and staffing.

• Venue limitations: Choose activities that suit the size and layout of your party venue. Consider the space available and any technical requirements for the entertainment you choose. 
• Overall Flow & Schedule: Integrate entertainment seamlessly into the conference schedule, ensuring a good balance between informative sessions and engaging activities and avoiding disruptions or overlaps.
• Staffing needs: Determine if any additional staff will be required to manage the entertainment or activities.
  

7. Engagement & Interactivity

• Go beyond passive entertainment: Opt for activities that encourage interaction and participation among attendees.
• Incorporate technology: Utilize interactive games, polls, or audience response systems to keep attendees engaged. We highly suggestion using a Corporate event Management software that will help you with planning and easy seamless execution. Here is a guide to our Top 8 Corporate Event Management Software!
• Consider photo opportunities: Set up a photo booth or fun backdrop for attendees to capture memories and share on social media.

Additional Tips

• Get feedback: Ask past attendees or colleagues for suggestions on entertainment options.
• Read online reviews: Research potential entertainment providers by reading online reviews and checking their experience with similar events.
• Think outside the box: Don't be afraid to explore unique and creative entertainment ideas to make your event truly memorable.
• Plan B is essential: Have a backup plan in case of unforeseen circumstances that might affect your chosen entertainment.
• Survey your employees: Gauge their preferences through a quick survey to understand what kind of entertainment they'd enjoy most.‍
• Balance active and relaxing options: Offer a mix of entertainment options to cater to different energy levels and preferences.‍
• Think about the overall theme: If your party has a theme, choose entertainment that complements it for a cohesive experience.

Don’t Forget to Remember Your Goals

• Do you want to boost engagement?
• Do you aim to facilitate networking?
• Is the goal to create lasting memories? Choose entertainment that aligns with your overall event objectives.

"Entertainment at corporate events should be more than just a distraction; it should be an integral part of the event's message and objectives. Think about how each entertainment element can enhance the overall theme and goals of the event." - Julius Solaris, Founder of EventMB and Head of Engagement at Swapcard

30 Entertainment Ideas For Corporate Events And Conferences

Entertainment ideas shouldn’t be chosen because it’s fun or trendy; instead, they should be considered if they serve the event goal, reinforce the company’s culture and inspire collaboration. In this section, we explore 30 corporate event entertainment ideas, why they work, when to use them and the business outcomes they achieve;

1. Scavenger Hunt

A scavenger hunt where attendees solve challenges related to the company’s focus rather than collecting miscellaneous items is a smart move. It supports team bonding and collaboration while fostering cross-department networking. When hosting, design clues that reinforce company culture, for hybrid events, mix physical locations with QR codes. For instance, the Google team in Hong Kong used team-based scavenger hunts during leadership retreats to build collaboration.

Best suited for

Annual events, team retreats, and onboarding events

Event format

In-person or hybrid

Ideal audience size

Teams of 5 - 6, 30 - 500 attendees.

Time slot

45 - 90 minutes

2. Interactive Game Show

This is a live interactive game show modelled after a trivia or using rapid-fire questions, but customised with company or industry-specific questions. It fosters engagement, reinforces company knowledge and drives participation. Games not only reinforce learning, but also grab attention. Use live polling on event apps for virtual audiences and balance questions with fun. You can offer little incentives to motivate the audience. For example, Salesforce’s Dreamforce uses interactive games for Corporate Employees and Attendees to keep attendees engaged. 

Best suited for

Sales events, conferences, annual meetings.

Event format

In-person, virtual or hybrid

Ideal audience size

50 - 2000 attendees 

Time slot

 30 - 60 minutes

3. Escape Room Challenge

This is a timed problem-solving experience where attendees are grouped into teams to “escape” by completing a challenge. It builds problem-solving skills, especially under pressure, fosters leadership and builds trust. Ensure the challenge aligns with real-world expectations. Mix lead roles within a team and follow up with a reflection session so attendees can share what they have learnt. Many Fortune 500 companies use escape room challenges as part of their leadership development programs.

Best suited for

Leadership retreats, offsite strategic meetings, R & D programs

Event format

In-person or virtual event

Ideal audience size

20 - 200 attendees

Time slot

60 - 90 minutes 

4. Meet Your Match

This is a structured networking game where attendees are matched based on interests or roles, or are encouraged to find their match during the time slot. If matching attendees, match based on shared values for effective networking. Provide conversation prompts to reduce awkwardness between partners. A good example is how Salesforce’s Dreamforce set up structured networking opportunities at events for attendees to connect.

Best suited for

Conferences, summits, company retreats

Event format

Virtual, in-person or hybrid

Ideal audience size

100 - 5000 attendees

Time slot

 Runs throughout the event

5. Wellness Games 

This is a game with spaces dedicated to short wellness activities such as meditation, guided breathing, stretch breaks, reflection, etc. This game supports employees’ wellbeing, focus and productivity.  Schedule the wellness sessions between intense event activities and make them optional. You can brand the wellness spaces to reinforce the company’s identity. Major tech events such as Google and Salesforce incorporate wellness zones so attendees can take a break.

Best suited for

Conferences, leadership summits, multi-day events

Event format

Hybrid or in-person

Ideal audience size

Unlimited; in cases of large crowds, you can make it rotational.

Time slot

10 - 30 minutes per person

6. Storytelling Exchange

This is a game where attendees share stories around a prominent experience in their life, whether it is failure, growth, managing relationships, innovation, etc. Storytelling not only humanises the workplace but also helps the company build trust and psychological safety. Provide storytelling prompts within set time limits and encourage everyone to respect one another, regardless of their stories. Companies like Airbnb use 

Best suited for

Employee hangouts, leadership trainings, culture-building events 

Event format

In-person or virtual 

Ideal audience size

20 - 200 people 

Time slot

 30 - 60 minutes

7. Challenge Arena

This is a timed challenge with a game-style competition where teams solve puzzles, mini tasks, etc. It helps employees bond quickly as they need to work together to solve the challenge, while fostering decision-making and time management. Put people from different departments in a team and explain the rules. Reward collaboration over winning. Corporate teams such as Netflix and Google often use team challenges to foster decision-making and communication across departments. 

Best suited for

Annual town halls, corporate retreats, leadership meetings

Event format

In-person or hybrid 

Ideal audience size

7 - 10 people per team

Time slot

45 - 90 minutes

8. Learning Quest

This is a game-based learning experience where attendees learn new knowledge related to the company’s focus and earn points. It makes learning more interactive, which makes people engaged. It also helps build focus and retention. Align the modules with business growth and recognise active participation. Learning quests are low-barrier entertainment ideas that account for their being integrated into many corporate events across different industries.

Best suited for

Training days for staff, onboarding events, conferences

Event format

In-person, virtual or hybrid 

Ideal audience size

50 - 1000 people  

Time slot

Ongoing throughout the event

9. Problem-solving Lab

These are small-group sessions where attendees are grouped to solve key business challenges or brainstorm solutions. While attendees have fun during the process, they contribute to the tangible innovation in the company. Clearly define the event and document every output for adequate follow-up. Across tech, finance, healthcare, real estate, etc., different companies host regular problem-solving labs to strategise for the next level.

Best suited for

Innovation events, skill-building workshops, strategy retreats  

Event format

In-person or hybrid 

Ideal audience size

10 - 10 people 

Time slot

60 - 120 minutes

10. Photo Booths

Modern photo booths aren’t only good for having fun and taking photos, but can also serve as a major marketing asset for the company. It increases brand visibility, amplifies the event on social media and creates memories attendees can always refer to. Besides, photos create emotional touchpoints as different people connect at the photo booth. Ensure the branding is appealing and the booth is positioned near high-traffic areas. Encourage attendees to share their pictures online with hashtags. Usually, you’ll find that most conference planners use branded photo booths at events.  Check Mastering Experiential Events for Lasting Brand Impact for more ideas like this.

Best suited for

Conferences, product launches, in-person events

Event format

In-person events

Ideal audience size

50 - 1000 people 

Time slot

Available throughout the event 

11. Trivia

Trivia games test the audience’s knowledge through live questions displayed on screens. The questions can be focused on anything, as long as it makes the audience engaged. Trivia games reinforce knowledge and reset the audience’s energy between sessions. Set the timeframe for answering each question to 30 seconds. Use a live leaderboard to show progress. Mix both easy and difficult questions. From small businesses to Fortune 500 companies, trivias are popular for audience engagement. 

Best suited for

Conferences, town halls, training sessions 

Event format

Hybrid, virtual or in-person 

Ideal audience size

50 - 1000 attendees 

Time slot

15 - 30 minutes 

12. Live Demonstrations

Live demonstrations allow attendees to see the practical application of a process, workflow or product rather than just relying on theories. Focus on real case studies and give room for Q & A. Live demos help attendees better understand how to use a product, which enables faster adoption. A well-known example is Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC), which features live product demonstrations.

Best suited for

Tech conferences, product launches, training workshops

Event format

In-person or virtual 

Ideal audience size

30 - 500 participants per demonstration  

Time slot

20 - 40 minutes

13. Interactive Panels

This allows attendees at the corporate event to influence the discussion by submitting questions through live polls or at a designated section in the audience. As such, attendees feel seen and heard, which increases their active participation and retention. Interactive panels are best for events whose goal is to build thought leadership or engage the audience. Brief panellists to remain flexible. A major example is the World Economic Forum, which features global thought leaders on an interactive panel.

Best suited for

Webinars, annual conferences, town halls 

Event format

In-person or hybrid

Ideal audience size

50 - 1000 attendees

Time slot 

45 - 60 minutes

14. Silent Disco

Attendees wear wireless headphones while enjoying a shared, yet personalised, dance experience. This way, attendees have control over their experience without noise. This entertainment activity aligns with events aimed at celebrating milestones or creating memorable experiences. Most conference socials often include silent disco nights to provide immersive entertainment for attendees.

Best suited for

Conference socials, afterparties, brand activations 

Event format

In-person  

Ideal audience size

50 - 500 people  

Time slot 

60 - 120 minutes

15. Cultural Showcase

A cultural showcase is a curated experience that introduces attendees to the local culture of the event’s host city through a mix of food, arts, cultural performances, etc. It builds a relationship between a brand and its target audience. Cultural experiences trigger shared memories and emotional engagement. Partner with local vendors for the cultural experience showcase and keep each short and simple. Major organisations such as Google, Microsoft and Deloitte often integrate cultural showcases of their host cities in their events.

Best suited for

Client appreciation events, conferences, incentive trips

Event format

in-person  

Ideal audience size

50 - 500

Time slot 

30 - 60 minutes

16. Casino Night

While you aren't trying to recreate the gambling experience, you can have a casino night-themed entertainment activity with classic casino games like roulette or poker, with light music and social interaction. This encourages attendees to mingle and bond without any social pressure. Offer incentives to encourage participation. Casino nights are popular among mid-sized and large companies, whether for strict employee parties or client appreciation events. 

Best suited for

Corporate parties, annual dinners, milestone celebrations 

Event format

In-person

Ideal audience size

50 - 300 attendees; 6 -10 players per table

Time slot 

60 - 120 minutes 

17. Live Portrait Drawing 

You can get artists to sketch live portraits, which they can take home as keepsakes or share digitally. This makes attendees feel seen and heard, which strengthens the brand perception. It also triggers an emotional connection with the brand and other attendees, which ultimately leads to an increase in revenue for the brand. Live portrait drawings are often found at professional networking events and luxury fashion brands such as Hermes and Chanel. 

Best suited for

Networking events, brand launches, client receptions

Event format

In-person  

Ideal audience size

50 - 200 attendees; 1 artist per 10 people 

Time slot 

Ongoing throughout the event

18. Icebreaker Games

These are short and fun activities designed to spark conversations among attendees who aren't familiar with one another. Icebreakers reduce social friction and increase attendee participation. To maximise your icebreakers properly, choose activities aligned with your event goals and avoid putting people on the spot. Whether small, mid or large-sized, most companies curate fun icebreakers to make their events engaging.

Best suited for

Onboarding sessions, internal meetings, annual conferences 

Event format

In-person, virtual or hybrid

Ideal audience size

10 - 300 attendees; 5-8 people per group

Time slot 

10 - 30 minutes 

19. Improv Comedy

Here, professional comedians perform clean, unscripted comedy based on industry focus, company scenarios, suggested themes, etc. This lowers stress, as attendees laugh and have fun. It also improves creativity and collaboration, which increases workplace productivity. Brief the comedians on company culture and boundaries, and schedule the session at moments where energy levels are low. Major companies such as Pepsico and McKinsey often partner with businesses like Hoopla Business and Business Improv to integrate improv comedies into their events and training programs.

Best suited for

Retreats, multi-day conferences, leadership meetings 

Event format

In-person or virtual 

Ideal audience size

100 - 1000 attendees

Time slot 

30 - 60 minutes 

20. Yoga Breaks/Wellness Sessions

Asides helping attendees to reset mentally and physically, short, guided yoga breaks improve concentration and regulate emotions. This allows attendees to be more present and retain more knowledge. Keep the yoga breaks optional, but build it into the agenda so attendees know what's available. Also, make it beginner-friendly to encourage attendees to join. A good example is how Nike incorporates wellness sessions into its events to boost focus. 

Best suited for

Multi-day training programs, leadership retreats, corporate conferences 

Event format

In-person

Ideal audience size

20 - 300 people per session 

Time slot 

15 - 30 minutes 

21. Themed Dance Party

You can organise a dance party built around a theme such as a particular culture, time, place, etc. This not only boosts attendee morale but also serves as a form of cultural expression. Besides, music lowers social barriers and allows attendees to connect beyond their job titles. Ensure you share the theme early so everyone can prepare adequately and keep it open. Themed dance parties are a favourite at most corporate events and training programs, as they are easy to plan and execute.

Best suited for

Company anniversaries, award nights, year-end parties

Event format

In-person or hybrid

Ideal audience size

50 - 1000 people  

Time slot 

60 - 120 minutes 

22. Game Truck Experience

A game truck is a mobile gaming setup with multiplayer stations, consoles, etc., parked at the venue. Due to the low-pressure nature of games, they help attendees bond more. Use time slots to avoid overcrowding and to ensure everyone gets a chance. For example, companies such as AstraZeneca, Titan Airways and The Royal Air Force work with entertainment companies like Gamewagon to provide game truck experiences for their attendees.

Best suited for

Tech conferences, recruitment events, employee appreciation days

Event format

In-person 

Ideal audience size

30 - 150 people; 5 - 10 people per group

Time slot 

1 - 3 hours

23. VR Zone

The VR Zone is a dedicated space where attendees check out simulations and try virtual reality experiences. Immersion maintains focus and retains knowledge more than text or videos, which improves memory and emotional impact. Ensure your facilitators sanitise the VR equipment between sessions. Make it beginner-friendly as well. For example, companies such as AstraZeneca, Titan Airways and The Royal Air Force work with entertainment companies like Gamewagon to provide mobile VR zones for their attendees.

Best suited for

Innovation summits, tech expos, product launches 

Event format

In-person or hybrid

Ideal audience size

20 - 100 people per hour

Time slot 

5 - 10 minutes per attendee

24. DIY Craft Activities

DIY craft activities are do-it-yourself creative activities attendees can participate in, such as painting, building small keepsakes, etc. They align with events that aim to promote wellness, creativity and collaboration. Make it beginner-friendly, keep the instructions simple and encourage attendees to connect and collaborate. DIY craft activities are popular among creativity-inclined organisations like Etsy that want to inspire creativity among their attendees.

Best suited for

Wellness days, employee engagement programs, retreats

Event format

In-person 

Ideal audience size

15 - 200 people 

Time slot 

30 - 60 minutes 

25. Expert AMA Sessions

AMA (Ask Me Anything) sessions are live Q & As with industry experts or specialists where attendees can get the answers they seek. It makes learning more interactive and engaging. It works well for events whose goals are to build thought leadership and share knowledge within their community. While often not publicised, many companies have an internal culture where they host regular AMA sessions for their employees.

Best suited for

Conferences, town halls, industry seminars

Event format

In-person or virtual 

Ideal audience size

50 - 1,000

Time slot 

45 - 60 minutes 

26. Impact Activity

Here, attendees come together to contribute to a social or environmental cause, either digitally or physically. This builds team pride and emotional connection. It also strengthens company culture and branding. Global organisations such as Microsoft and Coca-Cola often encourage employee volunteering while contributing to or leading CSR initiatives worldwide.

Best suited for

Company anniversaries, team meetings, CSR events

Event format

In-person, virtual or hybrid 

Ideal audience size

10 - 1000 (all attendees don't have to be present at the activity)

Time slot 

60 - 120 minutes 

27. Data Insights Workshop

This is a guided activity where attendees work with data, whether anonymised or not, to extract insights and actionable steps for both individual and company growth. Asides bridging the gap between information and execution, it makes participants more involved in decision-making. This also makes them feel more responsible for following through on every decision made. Many organisations recognise the value of data and often incorporate a data insights workshop into their leadership retreats.

Best suited for

Internal planning events, strategy sessions, leadership meetings 

Event format

In-person or hybrid 

Ideal audience size

15 - 60 people 

Time slot 

90 - 120 minutes

28. Reverse Mentorship Circle

Here, junior employees lead small-group conversations where senior executives learn about new tools, trends and perspectives. This breaks hierarchy and encourages inclusion, thereby allowing younger voices to be involved in decision-making. It also encourages innovation and responsibility among employees. General Electric (GE) started reverse mentoring programs under former CEO Jack Welch in the late 1990s, pairing younger, tech-savvy executives with senior executives to bridge the digital knowledge gap.

Best suited for 

Innovation summits, leadership retreats, DEI initiatives 

Event format

In-person or hybrid

Ideal audience size

15 - 60 people per group

Time slot 

45 - 60 minutes 

29. Movie Screenings

A movie screening creates a shared emotional and learning experience for participants, especially if the movie reflects company values. It aligns with events that aim to encourage informal networking and bonding among attendees. Opt for movies that reflect themes that align with company values, and you can follow up with a brief reflection session. Whether known or not, many companies feature movie screenings at their corporate events and training programs.

Best suited for

Internal town halls, end-of-year celebrations, leadership offsites

Event format

In-person or hybrid

Ideal audience size

30 - 300 people 

Time slot

120 - 180 minutes 

30. Local Tours

Local tours are a great way to immerse participants in cultural experiences of the host city, especially if it's a corporate event that people have to travel to. Partner with reputable local guides to deliver enjoyable experiences for participants. Schedule the tours at the end of the conference or in the evening. Most organisations enlist the services of local tour vendors to take attendees on immersive tours in the host cities.

Best suited for

Incentive trips, global team meet-ups, conferences

Event format

In-person 

Ideal audience size

15 - 50 per tour group 

Time slot 

60 - 180 minutes 

Organise Event Smarter with Eventify!

No matter how creative your corporate event entertainment idea is, poor execution will reduce the impact. This is where Eventify comes in. Eventify helps you streamline your entire event process so you don't miss important details. You can track registration, engagement, post-event analytics and make data-backed decisions that help you get the best of every idea. This way, you and your team won't feel overwhelmed. If you want your entertainment idea to help you achieve your business goals beyond just fun, you need Eventify. Get your demo booked today!