Observe International Fun at Work Day With 12 Team Bonding Activities

International Fun at Work Day is a global celebration designed to remind organizations that a happy workplace is a productive workplace. It’s an opportunity for teams to bond, boost morale, and foster a positive company culture.

Celebrating this day with engaging activities can strengthen relationships, inspire creativity, and reduce stress, making the workplace a more enjoyable environment for everyone. With countless team bonding activities to choose from, organizations can find something that suits their unique workforce, whether in-person or remote.

1. Host a Themed Office Party

A themed office party is a fun and versatile way to celebrate International Fun at Work Day. Choosing a theme that resonates with employees — such as a tropical luau, a ‘90s throwback, or a pajama day — can set the tone for a memorable experience. Teams can decorate the office, wear costumes, and even serve snacks that match the theme.

“Themed events offer your employees a chance to express themselves and break out of the usual routine,” says Francesco Gatti, CEO of Opensend. “These celebrations can create shared experiences that improve team cohesion and morale.”

Whether it’s a costume contest or a themed playlist, adding interactive elements can make the event more engaging.

2. Plan a Virtual Game Night for Remote Teams

For teams working remotely, a virtual game night can be a fantastic way to participate in International Fun at Work Day. Popular games like online trivia, Pictionary, or escape room challenges can be hosted via video conferencing platforms.

“Remote work can sometimes lead to feelings of isolation, and virtual game nights help bridge that gap,” says Max Baecker, President of American Hartford Gold, a company that helps you buy gold. “They create a space where colleagues can connect beyond work tasks and feel like they’re part of a team.”

By choosing games that align with the team’s preferences and keeping them short and engaging, remote teams can enjoy the camaraderie that comes with shared experiences. Adding fun prizes or lighthearted competition can further enhance the experience and encourage enthusiastic participation.

3. Organize an Office Scavenger Hunt

An office scavenger hunt can bring a sense of adventure and teamwork into the workplace. Create a list of items for employees to find or challenges to complete within a set timeframe, such as locating specific office supplies, taking selfies with colleagues, or solving workplace-themed riddles.

“Scavenger hunts are highly interactive and get people moving, thinking, and collaborating,” says Bob Craycraft, CEO of Cadence. “They’re a fun way to break up the day and build team rapport in a fun, low-pressure environment.”

Scavenger hunts can be customized to fit any workplace, making them suitable for teams of all sizes. Offering small prizes for the fastest or most creative team can add a competitive edge and make the activity even more exciting.

4. Bring in a Team Lunch or Potluck

Shared meals have long been a universal way to connect, making a team lunch or potluck an excellent way to celebrate International Fun at Work Day. Organize a catered lunch with popular options like burritos or pizza, or invite team members to bring a dish that represents their cultural heritage.

“Food is one of the simplest and most effective ways to bring people together,” says Andy Khubani, CEO of Copper Fit, a company known for their back brace offerings. “When your employees share a meal, it opens the door for authentic connections and a sense of belonging.”

Encourage conversations during the meal by providing light prompts, such as asking employees to share the story behind their dish. Including vegetarian or gluten-free options helps everyone easily join in on the celebration.

5. Start the Day With Icebreaker Activities

Icebreakers are a fun and quick way to energize the team and set a positive tone for the day. Choose activities that encourage interaction and laughter, such as “Two Truths and a Lie,” where employees guess which statement about a colleague isn’t true. Alternatively, you can try a word association game where each person connects their answers to workplace themes.

“Icebreakers may seem small, but they can have a big impact on communication and team dynamics,” says Brandon Adcock, Co-Founder and CEO of Nugenix, a company known for its Instaflex Advanced joint supplement. “They may help your employees feel more comfortable with one another, strengthening collaboration in the long term.”

Even five minutes of laughter and engagement can create a more relaxed atmosphere and enhance productivity throughout the day.

6. Run a Friendly Office Olympics

A friendly office Olympics can bring out the competitive spirit in a positive, team-building way. To keep things lighthearted, set up simple events like paper airplane contests, desk-chair races, or a stapler toss. Divide employees into teams and award fun prizes like trophies or snacks for the winners.

“Gamification in your workplace may boost energy levels and foster teamwork,” says Brianna Bitton, Co-Founder of O Positiv, a company that specializes in women’s vitamins. “Activities like an office Olympics encourage creativity while breaking down barriers across teams.”

Make sure everyone has the chance to participate by including both physical and mental games, like trivia or riddles, for those who prefer less active competition. A scoreboard or crafted “medals” can also add to the excitement.

7. Promote Wellness With a Group Fitness Class

A group fitness class is an engaging way to prioritize employee wellness while fostering team spirit. Yoga, Zumba, or a quick, high-energy workout can help employees relieve stress and feel more energized throughout the day.

“Group fitness activities are a mindful way to boost physical and mental well-being,” says Julie Sawaya, Co-CEO of Needed, a company known for its prenatal vitamins. “They encourage your employees to bond over shared goals while promoting healthier lifestyle habits.”

Scheduling classes during lunch breaks or at the end of the day makes them easy to fit into busy schedules. Providing a variety of fitness options ensures that employees of all activity levels feel comfortable participating.

8. Try a Workplace Karaoke Session

Karaoke is a fun and entertaining way to bring employees together in celebration. Organizing a karaoke event is a prime opportunity to encourage team members to let loose and enjoy the moment.

“Karaoke helps create a relaxed atmosphere where your employees can connect on a personal level,” says Raunaq Singh, Founder & CEO of Roam Home, a company that helps you find assumable mortgage listings. “It’s a simple and effective way to build camaraderie and encourage laughter.”

Offer a mix of song genres and encourage group performances. Karaoke sessions can be an enjoyable experience for all employees, regardless of their singing ability.

9. Organize an Outdoor Team Picnic or Park Day

Taking the celebration outside provides a refreshing change of scenery that can strengthen workplace relationships. Plan a team picnic in a nearby park, complete with picnic blankets, snacks, and simple games like frisbee or tug-of-war. Include activities that encourage teamwork, such as relay races or a group scavenger hunt.

“Spending time outdoors has a rejuvenating effect on employees and improves team cohesion,” says Jack Savage, Chief Executive Officer of Everyday Dose, a company that specializes in mushroom coffee. “It creates a relaxed environment where people can connect outside the usual work setting.”

Encourage employees to bring their families if appropriate, turning the event into a family-friendly outing.

10. Set Up a Trivia Challenge

A trivia challenge is a fun way to engage employees’ competitive spirits while testing their knowledge on various topics. Trivia questions can range from pop culture and history to company-specific facts, encouraging employees to learn more about their workplace.

“Twice a year… all employees clear their schedules to come and play a loosely-scored, super-fun round of ‘employee trivia.’ People see they can safely open up, and the fun facts [learned] help build conversations and relationships,” says Gina Deciani of the Association for Supply Chain Management.

To keep the activity inclusive, offer a mix of question difficulties and topics that appeal to diverse interests. Using interactive platforms for virtual trivia ensures that remote employees can participate, making it a fun and engaging experience for everyone.

11. Host a Mini Talent Show

A mini talent show offers employees a platform to share their unique skills and talents, from singing and dancing to stand-up comedy or juggling. The informal nature of the event encourages participation and helps employees showcase their personalities outside of work.

“Talent shows are a fun way to spotlight creativity and individuality within your team,” says Griff Duncan, Digital Marketing Manager of CON-CRĒT, a company that specializes in creatine pills. “They build confidence and strengthen connections by allowing employees to share something personal and fun.”

To keep things lighthearted, consider including humorous awards, such as “Most Unexpected Talent” or “Crowd Favorite.” Providing ample encouragement and creating a judgment-free environment will make participants feel supported and appreciated.

12. Support a Good Cause Together

Celebrating International Fun at Work Day can also be an opportunity to give back to the community. Organize a volunteering event, such as cleaning up a local park, packing meals for a food bank, or hosting a charity fundraiser.

“Community service activities, such as organizing a park clean-up or volunteering at a local food bank, create a shared sense of purpose among team members,” says Rebecca Knight of Harvard Business Review. “These activities promote better team collaboration, empathy, and also improve employees’ perceptions of their company.”

Choose an activity that aligns with your company values or resonates with employees’ interests. Supporting a good cause fosters teamwork while also enhancing employee pride in their workplace.

Work Hard, Play Hard

International Fun at Work Day is an excellent opportunity to foster camaraderie, creativity, and enjoyment among employees. By selecting activities that cater to diverse interests and accommodating remote employees where possible, companies can ensure that everyone feels included in the celebration.

Taking the time to plan meaningful and engaging activities for International Fun at Work Day enhances workplace culture while also strengthening team bonds that extend well beyond the celebration itself. Try it out in your company, and see the difference a little fun can make!