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Without question, interactive features are a “must have” at today’s corporate events. Like massive icebreakers, onsite activities appeal across generations and company positions. Using games to add entertainment and excitement to an event offers a proven method of getting attendees moving and talking, and by adding a dose of nostalgia, games and activities that recall a bygone era might even encourage the swapping of childhood stories.
Rev Up the Competition
Can you name the game that consists of dropping red or black discs into a structure in an attempt to create a straight row of four discs before your opponent? Games like long-time favorite Connect Four or the block stacking and balancing game Jenga offered hours of entertainment as a kid and still provide a challenge for adults. The important factor in choosing games for an event is to select options with simple rules that anyone can play with or without experience.
Most of these are best in giant versions that turn a little competition into a fun spectacle. Another favorite is the surgery game inspired by Operation that asks players to use tongs to remove everything from bones to a broken heart without touching the sides.
In addition to board games and those focused on dexterity, other throwback features like giant tricycles can get guests moving and letting go of their reserve. Turn these trikes into a competitive race, and see who laughs all the way to the finish line.
Get Crafty
For guests whose childhood activities leaned toward arts & crafts rather than sports or games, provide a hands-on craft experience that will allow them to create a souvenir from the event. Select a project that is easy and quick enough to be completed in 30 minutes or less, and watch creativity soar. Iron-on chain stitch patches on a bandana or t-shirt offer a crafty endeavor for guests who might never be tempted to pick up a paintbrush.
In the spirit of teamwork, present guests with a collaborative mural or giant coloring book. Create a black-and-white drawing that relates to the company’s products, services or core values. This can hang on the wall with a foam core backing of be presented horizontally as a canvas draped over a table. Provide markers, paints, or other coloring implements that allow guests to fill in the line drawing with their favorite hues and style a memorable piece of art. Post-event, the client can use the resulting “artwork” as décor for the lobby, break room or other company spot.
With games, activities and snacks that harken back to the halcyon days of youth, your guests will rekindle old memories while also creating new ones. A corporate event that generates its own sense of nostalgia has a powerful and long-lasting impact.
