You found our list of the best virtual events for companies.
Virtual events are online gatherings usually held over video platforms like Zoom, Webex, and Google Meet. Examples include virtual team building events, webinars, and conferences. The purpose of these experiences is to help remote employees get to know each other, leading to better communication and teamwork, or to help outsiders get to know the company, leading to positive business outcomes. These activities are also known as "online events," and "virtual gatherings."
These events are a form of remote team building activities and virtual corporate events that support online employee engagement. You can use virtual event companies to help you run these experiences.
This list includes:
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Here are interactive and engaging virtual events that are high-energy and encourage participation.
Online Office Games is a fully hosted virtual team building experience designed to ignite team spirit and camaraderie.
This experience is teambuilding.com's flagship event, has engaged over 150,000+ participants to date, and has a 4.95/5 star rating on 8400+ reviews.
Online Office Games ensures a hassle-free, exciting virtual experience with:
We have run Online Office Games for Google, Apple, Amazon, and many other organizations.
Learn more about Online Office Games.
Lunches or dinners are easy virtual social events, especially since many companies provide meal credits for meetings. These events create a relaxed space for teams to connect and chat casually.
We recommend budgeting $25 - $35 per employee for food. You can send teammates digital gift cards through Hoppier or credits for meal delivery services like Grubhub, or reimburse their takeout receipts.
Then, schedule a video call, invite each employee to show what they ordered, and eat together.
We recommend selecting a fun food theme for the event to create a shared experience and add an extra layer of excitement.
For example:
A key advantage of Zoom meals is that unlike at a restaurant where you can only talk to those sitting next to you, a video call lets you chat with anyone at any time. Plus, teammates order their food before the call starts and can start socializing right away.
Hosting an amazing race is a fun and popular virtual event idea for online socials. For this activity, divide your participants into small teams and have them compete for points and prizes. For example, you might do scavenger hunts, rapid-fire Bingo, and other games that incorporate elements of collaboration and competition.
Learn more about virtual amazing races.
An online game night is simple to organize, highly interactive, and effortlessly brings teams together. Simply pick a few games, get teammates on a Zoom call, and play together as a group.
Here are popular games:
You could also play party games like Pictionary or charades, or online board and card games.
The key to a successful event is to choose games that encourage conversation and teamwork. To keep engagement high, rotate hosts each round, use breakout rooms for small-group play, and send prizes to the winners.
We suggest scheduling a monthly game night, since setting a recurring event saves you planning hassle.
Also, "game night" is just a phrase. You can host these events during the workday too.
Here are more online game night ideas.
Virtual karaoke breaks down barriers, gets folks out of their comfort zones, and encourages participants to take risks.
Here are some of our suggestions for epic karaoke songs that inspire group sing-alongs:
Here is how to host virtual karaoke:
The Karafun karaoke app also works well for this event.
Ultimate Game Show is one of the most fun virtual events for offices. In this online experience, hosts lead teams through three different fan-favorite game shows like Price Hike and Coworker Feud.
This event is a chance to build strong connections, cultivate teamwork, and spark friendly competition within your group.
Ultimate Game Show includes everything you need for an unforgettable event:
We have run this event for 20,000+ team members, and 98% of team members who shared feedback report feeling happier after playing.
The experience is also available in Halloween, holiday, or "build-your-own" versions, as well as versions for Black History Month, Women's History Month, and Pride Month.
Learn more about Ultimate Game Show.
Improv teaches flexibility and is a ton of fun. You can host an online improv event over a video call to help your team think quickly and creatively in the moment.
Here are improv activities:
These events are flexible and welcoming because employees who do not want to act can still join by suggesting scenes.
Here is a list of more virtual improv games.
Here are some of the most creative ideas for virtual events. These experiences are uncommon or unexpected activities that offer fresh, engaging ways to connect remote teams and make virtual gatherings memorable.
tiny campfire is a virtual campfire experience designed to build camaraderie in online offices.
In the days leading up to the event, each team member receives a premium s'mores kit with a tealight candle to roast marshmallows at their desks. At event time your "camp counselor" teambuilding.com host guides teams through games and activities that spark fun and conversation.
This experience has received glowing reviews from companies like Amazon, LinkedIn, and Netflix, making it a standout choice for virtual team socials.
Virtual Campfire includes everything you need for a successful event:
Learn more about tiny campfire.
Virtual prom lets employees dress up, enjoy a throwback moment together, and create new memories inspired by old ones.
How to host one:
Like proms, work events can be awkward. Virtual proms offer a fun and campy way to overcome jitters and interact with peers. After all, only the most comfortable teams dare to flaunt shoulder pads in front of each other.
You and your coworkers can start the workday on a cozy note with a virtual breakfast in bed. Weekday mornings are usually rushed, but a remote breakfast in bed lets employees start the day slowly and connect with teammates.
Here's how to host one:
While some offices have daily check-ins, remote teams often miss that ritual. A virtual breakfast sets a positive tone for the workday with good food and great company.
You could also choose this theme for a virtual webinar. Most webinars do not show participants onscreen, so folks are welcome to watch in their pajamas, enjoy a breakfast, and learn something before starting their workday.
Remote teams have fewer chances to casually hang out or celebrate together than in-office teams.
Uncommon holidays give virtual teams a reason to get together and party in between mainstream holidays.
Here are a few fun ideas:
These mini-celebrations can be as short as 10 or 15 minutes, meaning that you can fit even more socials into your team's schedule.
Virtual science fairs are a fun and unique way for teams to connect. Employees can present interesting experiments or industry insights using slideshow screen sharing. The projects can be work-related, or can be actual science experiments.
Keep in mind that topics do not have to be serious. For example, an experiment might be "Memes vs Pet Pics: Which images get the most emoji love in Slack?"
To make the event interactive, use the platform’s polling feature to vote for the best "booth."
This online social is like the show Chopped, but instead of cooking, teams build sculptures or inventions from mystery items.
To run the event, send each participant a mystery box filled with random objects. Then, have team members open their boxes on-screen during the call, and give them 10 to 20 minutes to create their object.
You can give participants a specific theme like "secret agent gadgets," or "alien technology," or leave the activity open-ended.
When the timer runs out, teammates present their items, using their storytelling skills and powers of persuasion to convince their coworkers why their piece is the best. The event ends with team members voting for a winner using your video call's polling function.
Explorer Afternoons encourage remote employees to step away from their usual workspace and bond with coworkers in a new environment.
Using a mobile video call app, you and your teammates can call in from any location.
For example:
If you cannot join the live call from these locations, then you can visit earlier in the week, take a picture, and share it in the group chat or on the call.
Remote jam sessions let musicians play and improvise together over video instead of in person. These fun, casual meetups boost creativity and make a great virtual team event.
To host a remote jam session, set up a video call and invite employees to bring instruments. Nonmusical teammates are welcome as well because every great performance needs an audience!
If your team does not have many musicians, then take a cue from Jimmy Fallon and play songs using whatever you've got.
Jam sessions help teams relax, collaborate, and enjoy their teammates' talents. Plus, these events give a whole new meaning to the phrase, "My teammates are rockstars."
Here are ideas for free virtual events if you have limited or no budget.
Many teammates enjoy seeing dogs and cats crash Zoom meetings. You can host a pet-themed social on Zoom to help your animal-loving teammates connect with their coworkers and their coworkers' furry friends.
Here are some ideas:
These events are especially exciting if any of your team members own unconventional pets, such as teacup pigs or llamas.
Similarly, here are ideas for a virtual take your dog to work day.
Online TV watch parties bring teams together online to watch special broadcasts like awards shows, sporting events, or season finales.
Technically these events are not totally free since you will need access to a streaming service, but someone on your team likely already has a subscription.
To hold these events, teammates join a video call to chat while the host streams the show while screen sharing or team members can watch from their own devices.
Fun ideas:
These events turn passive watching into an interactive experience, giving remote teams a way to bond over pop culture moments in real-time.
Virtual speed dating pairs employees up for quick five-minute conversations. While the point of regular speed dating is to find love, the aim of virtual speed dating is to get to know many different coworkers.
To host this event, invite team members to a Zoom and use breakout rooms to split folks into smaller groups for side discussions.
You can pre-assign attendees to breakout rooms before the meeting or have them count off to pick a room. We recommend giving groups five to eight minutes to chat each round and pairs two or three minutes before switching partners.
This type of event also works well for virtual conferences.
Here are networking icebreaker questions you can use.
Dramatic readings are virtual events activities where team members give over-the-top readings to stories their teammates submit. This event helps team members flex their comedy skills and is a fantastic icebreaker.
How to host:
This activity sparks laughter, builds confidence, and strengthens team connections, one overly emotional reading at a time!
A virtual open mic is a chance for teammates to share talents like poetry, music, or comedy with their coworkers during a video call.
How to host:
For extra fun, send a recap to the whole team afterward.
Virtual open mics help teammates appreciate each other beyond work and build confidence.
Dancing is a great team bonding activity because it lets coworkers loosen up, have fun, and share a more playful, authentic side of themselves. Not to mention, dancing is a great stress reliever!
To host a virtual team dance party, you can invite your teammates to a call, queue up a playlist full of groovy tunes, and bust a move.
Another fun twist on a dance party is a silent disco. At in-person silent discos, everyone dances to music on their own headset. In a virtual version, teammates mute their mics, dance to their own song, and other guests try to guess the tune based on their moves.
You and your remote teammates can have a podcast listening party together. First, choose a podcast. For example, true crime podcasts are popular, but before you pick one you should check that all teammates are okay with this kind of content.
You can all stream the podcast together, comment on the drama, and make predictions. Or, you can listen to the podcast separately and then meet up to discuss.
Here are the different types of virtual events remote companies might host. Some of these interactive virtual events are run internally for employees, while others are externally-focused to attract new customers or engage existing clients.
Virtual team building events bring remote teams together through interactive activities designed to strengthen relationships, boost morale, and improve collaboration. These events help employees connect beyond work tasks, creating a sense of camaraderie despite physical distance.
The most common types of team building are online trivia, escape rooms, and DIY classes. However, there are many creative ways to foster connection between remote teams.
For example:
The best virtual team building events encourage participation from all personality types, not just the most outspoken voices. Hosts can make events more inclusive by picking a mix of exercises that tap into different skill sets and areas of expertise, and requiring different team members to answer or contribute.
Also, mixing structured activities with casual conversations makes virtual events feel more natural and engaging.
Virtual conferences are large-scale online events that bring together industry professionals, experts, and attendees for learning, networking, and collaboration. These events typically span multiple sessions, covering a range of topics through keynote speeches, panel discussions, and interactive workshops. Unlike single-session webinars, virtual conferences offer a more immersive experience with various opportunities for engagement.
Here are some engaging features:
A well-planned virtual conference balances structured learning with interactive elements, ensuring attendees leave with valuable insights and meaningful connections.
Webinars are live or recorded online presentations that educate, inform, or engage an audience on a specific topic. These events allow businesses to share expertise and connect with clients, potential customers, or industry peers in an interactive format.
Here are common features:
Presentation Deck Sharing: Attendees access slides to follow along during the webinar and download them afterward for future reference.
The best webinars feel like conversations, not lectures, and leave attendees with a clear next step. Strong moderation and well-prepared speakers ensure that webinars stay on topic and maintain audience interest.
Virtual trade shows allow companies to showcase products, connect with potential customers, and network with industry professionals in an online format.
Unlike virtual conferences, which focus on speakers and panels, trade shows emphasize exhibitor booths, product demos, and live interactions.
These events often include virtual expo halls, interactive chat features, and on-demand content, making it easy for attendees to explore and engage at their own pace.
Here are some common features:
Digital trade shows help businesses reach a wider audience without the high costs of travel and booth setup, making them an efficient way to generate leads and showcase innovations.
Social events help remote teams bond by creating space for casual chats, shared interests, and fun interactions. These events recreate the casual connections that happen in an office setting. Unlike remote team building events, which tend to be more structured, online work socials are casual and have loose agendas.
Here are some engaging ideas:
Social events help remote teams feel more connected, making work relationships stronger and collaboration smoother.
Virtual holiday parties bring remote teams together to celebrate the year's end and recognize their hard work and achievements. These celebrations tend to be the most common events that remote companies host for employees.
Here are some unique ideas:
Since remote teams often include members from different cultures and backgrounds, holiday parties are most meaningful when they are inclusive and focus on togetherness and celebration rather than a single tradition.
Learn how to throw virtual holiday parties.
Virtual meeting events bring remote teams together for important discussions, updates, and decision-making. These gatherings keep teams aligned, encourage transparency, and provide space for collaboration, no matter where participants are located.
Here are some common types of online meetings:
These events are most effective when well-planned, engaging, and purposeful. Clear agendas, interactive elements like live Q&As or breakout discussions, and actionable takeaways help these events drive impact.
Check out these games for virtual meetings.
Virtual retirement parties give remote teams a chance to celebrate a retiring colleague by gathering on Zoom for one last celebration. These parties honor years of contributions, strengthen team bonds, and provide a warm send-off, even from afar.
Here are some unique ideas:
A well-planned virtual farewell ensures retirees feel appreciated while giving teammates closure and a chance to express gratitude.
Here is how to throw virtual retirement parties.
Virtual appreciation events give companies a way to celebrate employees and clients online in a meaningful, interactive setting. These events go beyond a simple “thank you” email by creating memorable experiences that recognize contributions, strengthen relationships, and boost loyalty.
Here are some unique ideas:
Thoughtful recognition helps remote employees feel included and not out of sight, out of mind, and the same is true of client appreciation.
Here are virtual employee appreciation event ideas.
Virtual networking events help remote teams or professionals in specific industries connect in a meaningful way, going beyond small talk to build real relationships.
Here are some unique ideas:
Instead of just chatting, structured challenges and activities help people bond over problem-solving, creativity, and unexpected discoveries.
Here are virtual networking event ideas.
Virtual training events help teams learn new skills, share knowledge, and grow together from anywhere. Companies often hold these sessions to teach team members new rules and policies, software, or tasks. Training can be asynchronous and self-directed, or can be live and collaborative.
Either way, these sessions keep employees engaged and make learning more interactive.
Here are some unique ideas:
Making training hands-on through challenges, role-playing, or group discussions keeps sessions engaging and helps ideas stick.
Check out more virtual training ideas.
Online birthday parties are an easy but often overlooked way to bring teams together. Whether in a decorated break room or on a video call, celebrating birthdays makes employees feel valued and boosts morale.
Here are some unique ideas:
Check out our list of virtual birthday party ideas for more inspiration.
Many remote companies host in-person meetups or retreats so work-from-home employees can meet and work together face-to-face. However, when budgets are tight or teams need to gather sooner than an in-person retreat would allow, virtual retreats are a fast and affordable solution.
A virtual retreat is an online team building experience where teams connect, collaborate, and recharge through activities like workshops, games, and discussions.
Here is what an example agenda might look like:
10:00 AM: Welcome & Icebreaker (Fun team activity to start the day)
10:30 AM: Workshop (Interactive session on a key topic)
11:15 AM: Team Challenge (Engaging game or problem-solving activity)
12:00 PM: Lunch Break (Optional virtual networking)
1:00 PM: Panel or Speaker (Inspiring talk or discussion)
1:45 PM: Breakout Sessions (Small group collaboration)
2:30 PM: Wrap-Up & Reflections (Takeaways and closing remarks)
Learn more about virtual retreats.
Here is how to plan a virtual event that runs smoothly and is fun for your coworkers.
First, decide what result you want from the event, like team bonding, learning, or just fun. A clear goal helps shape the activities and format.
Here are some examples:
Some events can have multiple benefits for the team. But leaders should focus on one main goal and no more than two or three smaller goals. Most virtual events last one to two hours. Too many goals can make the event feel scattered and less effective. A better approach is to plan ongoing events, each with a different goal.
Next, choose a reliable platform like Zoom or Microsoft Teams. While many companies default to their standard meeting software, it is important to consider features that can enhance engagement.
For example, Zoom is great for interactive virtual events because it offers breakout rooms for small-group discussions, reactions for real-time engagement, and webinar mode for large audiences. Microsoft Teams integrates seamlessly with Office 365, making it ideal for training sessions or workshops where participants collaborate on shared documents in real time.
If you need a casual, social setting, then platforms like Gather create immersive virtual spaces where attendees can move around and mingle.
For client-facing events, pick platforms with features that improve attendee experience and help you achieve business outcomes. For example, a webinar platform with file-sharing modules where attendees can instantly download and follow along with the presentation.
If you are hosting the event, choose a cohost who can help run activities and step in if you experience technical issues. A good cohost is organized, adaptable, and comfortable speaking in front of a group. The cohost should also be familiar with the platform’s tools, such as breakout rooms, polls, and screen sharing, to ensure smooth transitions during the event.
For larger events, consider having multiple cohosts with defined roles. One cohost can monitor the chat and answer questions, another can manage breakout rooms, and a third can handle tech support, troubleshooting issues like audio problems or screen-sharing glitches. If your event includes interactive elements, such as a trivia game or panel discussion, then assign a cohost to engage participants and keep energy levels high.
If you plan to use vendors for your virtual event, then you can start researching companies and options as well.
If your company does not already have a budget for virtual team socials, then you can request some if needed. While there are many free virtual event ideas, budget can help you add kits, instructors, or meals. These extras can make the event more appealing to your team members and get more folks to attend.
Here are two examples.
$30 - $80 per person: Hosted experience like a trivia game, escape room, or virtual scavenger hunt
$15 - $35 per person: Food stipend for a snack or meal to enjoy during the event
$30 - $50 total: Digital gift cards, company swag, or raffle prizes for engagement
$50 -$80 per person: Hosted experience like a virtual holiday party, game show, or gingerbread cookie decorating
$25 - $50: Higher than average meal budget to enjoy a premium snack and a drink
$30 - $50: Add a DIY kit or a box of snacks onto the event
$50 - $60: Send employees gift boxes
Budgets may vary depending on the company, industry, and how often teams get together. If teams regularly participate in virtual socials, each event may have a smaller budget to keep costs sustainable. However, if the holiday party is the only virtual gathering of the year, the budget should be more generous to create a standout experience.
One of the biggest challenges of hosting virtual events is entertaining guests and giving all participants a chance to participate. You can include interactive elements like games, breakout discussions, or live performances to keep attendees engaged. Hosts can also call out to specific participants, or pose a question that all team members answer in the chat or on polls.
In fact, all virtual events should have some level of interactivity. According to the 8% rule, eight percent of any work meeting should revolve around making personal connections. If your meeting runs an hour, then at least five minutes of that time should go towards relationship-building.
According to findings from Vanderbilt University, virtual attendees often lose focus after just ten minutes. Using this logic, it is smart to plan an agenda that switches formats and activities about this often. For example, send employees to breakout rooms for discussions, swap speakers, or break up the flow with a trivia question. Subtly switching the format throughout the event keeps attendees alert and reduces the temptation to open other browser tabs.
Next, tell your coworkers about the social event with clear, engaging messaging that highlights the fun and purpose of the event. Your invite should clearly answer three key questions upfront: What is the event? When is it? Why should they join?
For example:
"Join us for the Ultimate Foodie Virtual Trivia Showdown! (Paid, on-the-clock team social.) Test your knowledge, team up with coworkers, and compete for $25 GrubHub gift cards. Thursday at 4 PM ET – don’t miss the fun!"
A combination of calendar invites, reminders, and personal nudges boosts attendance because it ensures employees see the invite and keep the event top of mind.
The calendar invite should serve as the "master invite" with all important details in one place, since emails and direct messages can get lost, but teammates can view the calendar at a glance.
Here are more details worth including:
We recommend making team socials paid and on the clock to encourage participation. Using language like, "All employees are expected to attend unless otherwise discussed with their manager" sets a clear expectation while allowing flexibility for those with work conflicts. This approach ensures employees do not feel pressured to attend if they have legitimate conflicts while reinforcing the importance of the event for team bonding.
If there are extras like meal credits, kits, or a special guest, mention them in the invite to encourage more coworkers to join.
It is best to do a trial run to check audio, video, and interactive tools before you do the event, especially if you do not run events often.
Here is a checklist of points to check:
Be sure to have a backup plan for tech issues. Also, a trial run will allow you to feel confident and be a personable host.
When event time comes, enter the meeting room five or ten minutes early to be ready. It is best to give guests the first five minutes of the event to arrive and settle in before starting activities. Even though attendees can join online events instantly, they may be coming from another meeting or finishing a work task, and may need time to join the room and mentally prepare. A five-minute buffer allows latecomers to settle in, encourages casual conversation, and creates a smoother transition into the event.
Be sure to keep your eye on the clock to keep the event flowing as planned, and interact with attendees in chat and through activities.
These engaging virtual events prove that distance does not have to mean disconnection. With the right mix of creativity and planning, teams can bond, unwind, and make memories while working from home. These events help remote coworkers build connections, boost morale, and create a sense of belonging. Not to mention, these gatherings help you create a fun remote work culture that employees want to be part of. Well executed online events can also help you represent your company to new audiences and attract new customers or position your team as an authority in your industry. Whatever the reason for the event, planning and choosing thoughtful activities that fit your audience can help your event be a success and ensure you see returns on your investment.
Next, check out our lists of virtual murdering mystery games, alternatives to Zoom, and fun Friday ideas to do virtually.
We also have a list of online volunteering ideas and these virtual activities for groups.
Here are answers to common questions about virtual events.
Virtual events are online gatherings with friends, coworkers, or clients. These kinds of social events fight feelings of disconnection and foster a sense of belonging among remote teams.
Types of virtual events include:
1. Virtual Team Building Events
2. Virtual Conferences
3. Webinars
4. Virtual Trade Shows
5. Virtual Social Events
6. Virtual Holiday Parties
7. Virtual Meeting Events
8. Virtual Retirement Parties
9. Virtual Appreciation Events
10. Virtual Networking Events
11. Virtual Trainings
12. Virtual Birthday Parties
13. Virtual Retreats
These are some of the most popular formats, but there are many types of online gatherings your company can have.
Hosting a virtual event allows your coworkers to connect in a fun, unexpected way. These connections help forge friendships and relationships that result in a happier more productive workplace.
The best virtual social events inspire interaction and encourage recreation. Some good virtual social events include Virtual Prom, Virtual Jam Sessions, and Virtual Storytime.
A virtual party is a celebration that takes place over video conferencing software. These gatherings offer virtual teams opportunities for socialization and celebration.
To host virtual events, follow these steps:
1. Set a Goal
2. Pick the Right Platform
3. Build Your Event Team
4. Confirm the Budget
5. Plan Engaging Activities
6. Invite Your Teammates
7. Test Your Tech
8. Host and Engage
Preparing properly can help you host an event that runs smoothly and engages employees.
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