Virtual corporate retreats are all about creating a lasting experience.
Unlike in-person retreats that run for days, virtual retreats aren’t your typical all-day computer screen marathons.
Nobody’s thrilled about staring at their screens for days, especially when our attention spans are shorter than a TikTok video, and we’re all a bit tired of endless Zoom calls.
But rushed virtual retreats can lead to burnout rather than team rejuvenation.
So, how do you plan a virtual corporate retreat that’s fun and entertaining? I’ve got your back!
Here are some awesome virtual retreat ideas and activities that’ll keep your remote team engaged.
Ready?
Let’s roll!
25 Fun Virtual Corporate Retreat Ideas That Your Team Will Love!
1. Virtual Scavenger Hunt
Kick off the retreat with a virtual scavenger hunt.
Create a list of quirky items or challenges for team members to find around their homes.
For example, find the most unusual kitchen gadget or find something in your closet that's purple!
My personal favorite is recreating a famous painting using household items.
A virtual scavenger hunt sparks laughter and camaraderie as everyone shares their discoveries.
2. Virtual Cooking or Mixology Class
A virtual Cooking or Mixology Class blends team building with creativity and fun.
Imagine everyone getting together online, guided by a professional chef or mixologist, as they whip up tasty dishes or craft killer cocktails.
Not only do you learn new skills, but you also share laughs and excitement, all while miles apart.
Plus, you're not just making food or drinks, you're cooking up memories.
3. Trivia Night
This one's a classic, virtual or not!
You can host an interactive trivia night with a mix of brain-teasers and hilarious questions.
Split the team into small groups for some friendly competition, and enjoy the amusing debates that arise from trying to answer obscure pop culture questions.
4. Virtual Escape Room Challenge
A virtual escape room operates much like its physical counterpart but in a digital space.
Participants gather via video conferencing and collaborate remotely to solve puzzles, decode clues, and accomplish tasks within a themed storyline.
They navigate through a series of virtual rooms, each presenting unique challenges.
This virtual retreat activity encourages teamwork, critical thinking, and problem-solving, all while letting your teammates bond and have fun from the comfort of their own locations.
It offers a shared experience that transcends geographical barriers!
Image source - The Escape Game
5. Online Karaoke Party
An online karaoke party for a virtual corporate retreat is a fantastic idea!
Setting up this event, we found out during our own virtual Karaoke party, is surprisingly simple.
All you need is a video conferencing platform where you and your colleagues can gather virtually.
Each participant takes turns singing their favorite tunes while others cheer them on.
This activity encourages team members to step out of their comfort zones and showcase their personalities.
The informal nature of karaoke helps to relax the virtual setting, making it an ideal icebreaker and team-building activity.
6. Virtual Board Games
Transform traditional board games into a virtual experience.
Platforms like Tabletopia, Dominion Games, Jackbox Games, and Weavr offer a wide range of games, from classics like Monopoly to strategy games, providing hours of competitive fun and teamwork.
Image source - Tabletopia
7. Team Talent Show
A Team Talent Show for a virtual corporate retreat is a fantastic idea!
You get to celebrate the diverse talents within your team - from guitar solos and singing to comedy sketches and dancing, everyone gets a chance to shine.
Participants take turns performing their acts via video conferencing, creating a supportive and entertaining environment.
This activity encourages individual expression, and offers a break from work-related discussions.
8. Guided Meditation
A remote guided meditation session involves an experienced meditation instructor leading participants through relaxation and mindfulness practices via a virtual platform.
This virtual corporate retreat activity is perfect because it transcends physical boundaries, allowing team members to participate from their own spaces.
This promotes relaxation, reduces stress, and enhances focus, all of which contribute to improved well-being and productivity.
The virtual format ensures accessibility for all; you and your teammates can easily join in, whether you're in a home office or a cozy corner.
9. DIY Craft Workshop
When we decided to host our virtual office party back in 2020, we stumbled upon DIY craft workshops.
And we loved the concept!
It basically involves selecting a craft project, having kits with necessary materials delivered to teammates, and getting an expert to guide you all through the crafting process via platforms like Zoom.
It's fun and encourages creativity, collaboration, and relaxation.
Crafting also promotes problem-solving skills and boosts morale as you all create tangible items you can be proud of.
Plus the workshop's hands-on nature helps break the routine of virtual meetings!
Image source - The Eclectic Chic Boutique
10. Online Comedy Show
A comedy show is an absolute winner for a virtual corporate retreat.
Afterall, laughter is a universal language that breaks down barriers and boosts team spirit.
And a good chuckle can lighten up even the most virtual of spaces!
With a comedy show, everyone can relax and unwind; it's like a stress-relief party where everyone's invited.
11. Online Fitness Session
An online fitness session is the ultimate addition to a virtual corporate retreat.
A professional instructor can lead your team in stretching, breathing exercises, and workouts that energize and rejuvenate.
Not only does this virtual retreat keep your team active and energized, but it also brings you all together in a fun and informal way.
You get to break a sweat, crack jokes, and encourage each other to push your limits, all while bonding over shared efforts.
It's like a mini adventure that boosts morale and promotes well-being🏋️♀️💪
12. Virtual Travel Experience
Embark on a virtual journey to iconic destinations!
A virtual travel experience brings the excitement of exploration and adventure to your team through an immersive online platform.
Using interactive tools, participants virtually tour famous landmarks, museums, and cultural sites from around the world.
This concept is an excellent fit for a virtual corporate retreat as it combines team bonding with learning and cultural enrichment.
We did a fun thing during one such retreat - with our team spread out across Mexico, Canada, and USA, we decided to share the view from our windows.
It was so cool seeing different countries without leaving home!
Image source - Discover Live
13. Virtual Bingo Night
A virtual bingo night brings the excitement of the traditional game to the online space.
You all are given virtual bingo cards, and a designated host calls out numbers. As you know, the first person to complete a line, pattern, or full card shouts "Bingo!"
The virtual format allows for seamless participation from different locations, promoting team interaction and friendly competition.
It's perfect for a corporate retreat because it's easy to organize, and accommodates a large number of participants.
14. Ted-Style Talks
During your next virtual retreat, you can cultivate learning and engagement by having team members deliver Ted-style talks.
From personal anecdotes to professional insights, these talks provide a platform for sharing knowledge and stories.
15. Virtual Book Club
This one's my favorite!
Just like a regular book club, a virtual book club brings people together to read a chosen book and discuss it in an online setting.
You and your colleagues read the book individually, then gather virtually to share thoughts, insights, and opinions.
This activity encourages intellectual engagement, and sparks meaningful conversations beyond work-related topics.
16. Guess Who?
Think you've got your teammates figured out? Let's put it to the test!
"Guess Who" is a game where the host drops hints about each team member without spilling the names. Your team's job? Figure out who's who!
This game's all about getting to know your coworkers better – what they're into, what makes 'em tick, and some quirky insights too.
Get ready to dive in and uncover the fun!
17. Language Exchange
A language exchange event is like a fun linguistic swap where team members teach each other bits of their native languages.
It's a perfect fit for a virtual corporate retreat because it's a low-pressure way to celebrate diversity and build connections.
Each person gets to share cool phrases and cultural tidbits, breaking the ice and creating a bonding experience.
18. Virtual Movie Night
Virtual movie nights are a total win for virtual corporate retreats!
Everyone picks 1 movie or series, and you use a streaming platform that syncs up the playback.
You all start the movie at the same time, and while you're watching, you can chat, share reactions, and crack jokes in a chat box.
It's like hanging out at the movies together, but in your comfiest PJs.
Plus, it's a chill way to wrap up a busy day of virtual activities! 🍿🎬
19. Coworker Feud
Coworker Feud is like the work-friendly version of Family Feud.
It's perfect for virtual corporate retreats because it gets the whole team playing and laughing together.
Usually the host gathers different topics for the game, be it facts about animals, cuisines, countries, human habits, or even the universe.
Another option is sending out surveys to your team and their families, using their responses as the data.
Each team selects a representative who is the spokesperson and buzzer, working with their team for answers.
The teams then take turns guessing the most popular responses.
Ultimately, the team with the highest score takes home the win.
20. Pictionary or Charades
Bring back classic game nights with virtual Pictionary or charades.
Use video conferencing tools to draw or act out clues, sparking laughter and teamwork.
21. Would You Rather
"Would you rather work from the beach or from a cabin in the woods?"
"Would you rather eat Pizzas for the rest of your life or Enchiladas?
"Would you rather have universal respect or unlimited power?"
Talk about a fun way to know your teammates better!
This game proves to be the perfect icebreaker.
By the way, it's cabin in the woods, and Enchiladas for me!
22. Storytelling Session
A virtual storytelling session is like an amazing campfire chat online.
Team members take turns sharing personal stories based on a fun or thought-provoking prompt.
It's perfect for a virtual corporate retreat because it builds a relaxed atmosphere, brings everyone closer, and lets colleagues reveal their personalities beyond the work zone.
23. Never Have I Ever
Surprised to see thins one on the list?!
I know this game can get a bit wild at parties!
But when we played it, we made the questions more office-friendly.
We asked questions like 'Never have I ever called in sick but actually went for a movie!'
And, 'Never have I ever watched The Office while working!'
'Never have I ever blamed slow internet to skip a meeting!'
24. Customized Workshops
Tailor workshops to your team's interests or industry.
Include skill-building sessions that empower team members to learn something new and expand their horizons.
25. Virtual Pet Show
Get to know your colleagues' furry friends (or crawly?!) in a virtual pet show.
Team members can introduce their pets and share amusing anecdotes.
This virtual corporate retreat activity has proven to foster a sense of community.
These 25 fun activities will make sure your next virtual corporate retreat is filled with laughter, learning, and collaboration.
These ideas and activities have the power to strengthen relationships, boost morale, and leave everyone feeling connected and inspired.
