Top 10 Reasons to Have a Company Picnic
The idea to have a company picnic may be nothing new, but it remains one of the most popular corporate events for organizations that want to get employees (and their families) together in one big party environment.
And it’s no wonder. Where else can you entertain hundreds of people with food, drinks, games and general merriment – without expensive ticket prices or the option to wander off on your own?
Sure there are other summer event options, but choosing to have a company picnic at lot more positives than you may think. To help make the decision easier, here are the top ten reasons why you should have a company picnic this year:
- Morale Booster There is no doubt that hosting company events is about showing appreciation for employees. That being said, it also gives employees an opportunity to strengthen relationships with co-workers, especially ones who they may not have met otherwise. This engaging event brings people together more effectively than tickets to a baseball game where guests only sit by one or two other people.
- Entertainment for All Ages! Everyone likes to be entertained at a company picnic. And not just having a clown at the event (although that is one possibility). It is easy to incorporate chill lawn games that can be played with a drink in hand, allowing for easy conversations while you play. You can also have more active games like volleyball and softball for those that want to roll up their sleeves and get a little sweaty. And lastly you have plenty of room for kids relays and activities if families are involved. All of these games are opportunities for your employees to interact with one another and bond outside of the office.
- Space Planning an event for hundreds of people makes it difficult to find a large enough venue. But because picnics generally take place outdoors, you no longer have to contend with square footage limitations. This also means the space is scalable no matter how big or small!
- Food Let’s face it – the food is usually the main course of any company outing, and it is one of the most important components. Typically, these events serve up barbecue or summer fare, but the beauty is you can choose whatever you like. While you have major flexibility, there is nothing like freshly grilled burgers and hot dogs cooked right on site!
- Scheduling Convenience The nice perk about picnics is they generally operate in open house format. That means you don’t have to worry about everyone getting there on time. For some of us, that is a good thing. They also can take place at almost anytime of the day or week depending on what works best for your group. If you are planning for employees only think about hosting on a weekday for some free time out of the office or if you are planning for families Friday nights or weekends are great!
- Laid Back Picnics are inherently casual, which removes a lot less stress on the event planner as well as all of the guests. It’s a come as you are kind of day which is a great change of pace from being in the office. People dress casually and get to know one another away from their cubicles with a beer in hand on a beautiful summer day. Nothing is required but to have a nice time!
- Location Unlike event planning for a conference or seminar that is out of state or across the country, the company picnic should be in a setting that is close to work. That means it is easier to check out locations before you make a decision. Plus, the less your guests have to commute, the more likely it is that they will show up. There are options in the suburbs off of major highways or other options near downtown and public transit for the city crowds.
- Outdoors O.K. the outdoors part has come up already, but this point deserves its own place. After all, if you live and work in Chicago, then you know how exciting it is to be outside after a long, cold winter. Fresh air and day in the sun is enough to get everyone excited for the event.
- Kid-friendly We realize that not all employees have children, but for those who do, a company picnic is the perfect way to include family members. It is a great way to say thank you to the families for supporting your staff throughout the year. Kids relays and activities are easy and fun to watch and/or participate in, giving even more opportunities for peers to bond!
- Stress-free If you are the event planner, then you may be wondering how this last one is possible. But when you plan your company picnics with WCF Events, our team literally assists you with everything – from venue quotes, catering, serving, coordinating and setting up entertainment, transportation, and even entertaining the kids so adults can relax and mingle – yes, really!
Next time you are thinking whether or not to have a company picnic this year, remember all these amazing pluses! Hosting a happy hour or going to a baseball game is nice, but picnics are so much more flexible and rewarding!
