An annual company picnic can be a highlight of the year—or a logistical headache—depending on how well they’re planned. With the right timing, entertainment, the perfect venue, and safety considerations, a company picnic can be fun, inclusive, and memorable for employees and their families. And of course, investing in experienced entertainment providers helps keep the event organized, safe, and stress free for both employees and organizers.
Here are some company picnic ideas to keep in mind when planning a team building event.
Choose the Right Time of Year (and Time of Day)
Weather plays a huge role in attendance and enjoyment. You don’t want to schedule it on a rain date (indoor activities just aren’t as fun), but having indoor alternatives available can help prevent last-minute cancellations or disruptions.
- July & August: Heat is a major factor. The hottest part of the day is usually around 4:00 PM. (a local park at high noon isn’t the best idea)
Ideal schedule: 5:00 PM start, 8:00 PM end. - June & September: Cooler temperatures allow for earlier starts.
4:00 PM is typically fine.
Picking the right venue at the right time is crucial, and planning around the heat keeps guests comfortable and helps maintain energy throughout the event.
Know Your Audience
A great company picnic entertains all age groups:
- Young children
- Teenagers
- Adults
Parents don’t want to spend the entire event babysitting, so activities should engage kids of all ages while allowing adults to relax and socialize.
Entertainment Ideas: Inflatable Toys Done Right
Inflatable attractions are always a great part of a company picnic menu—but they must be handled professionally.
Best practices for inflatable toys
- One trained staff member per inflatable to manage lines and safety
- All inflatables must be properly staked or weighted
- Place toys in shaded areas when possible to prevent burns
- Plan 1 inflatable per 20 kids to avoid long lines
- East Idaho winds:
- 15–20 mph is usually safe with proper anchoring
- Over 20 mph = move indoors or cancel
- Liability waivers should be signed by parents or the event host
- Inflatable companies should be fully insured
- Rules for each toy should be clearly posted
Equipment quality matters.
Professional-grade inflatables—typically made in the USA—are safer and more durable. Inflatables purchased from big-box stores or overseas manufacturers are not designed for commercial use and can lead to equipment failure or injuries.
Understanding Pricing (You Get What You Pay For)
Lower prices often mean:
- No delivery or no on-site staff
- No insurance
- Lower-quality, imported equipment
- Limited experience
For company events, safety and reliability should always come before saving a few dollars.
Planning for Large or Community-Style Events
For bigger events:
- Include at least one large attraction (like a slide) to draw attention
- Interactive attractions such as obstacle courses, jousting, or mechanical rides encourage participation
- These attractions also double as excellent marketing tools by drawing crowds and creating excitement
Mechanical Bulls: Safety First
Mechanical bulls can be a hit when done correctly.
- Choose bulls with soft heads (such as the Galaxy Bull)
- These provide more of a controlled wobble than aggressive bucking
- Most injuries occur with overly aggressive bull settings
- Ensure the operator is properly trained
Food Matters More Than You Think
Food can make or break a company picnic. After spending time outdoors in the fresh air, employees and their families appreciate quality food choices that are easy to enjoy and work for all age groups. Providing a variety of meal options also helps accommodate various dietary preferences and dietary restrictions.
Many companies now prefer customizable menus that allow attendees to choose between different proteins, sides, drinks, and desserts.
Comfort also matters. Providing shaded eating areas and comfortable seating gives employees a place to relax, socialize, and recharge between activities. If the weather changes unexpectedly, having a backup plan for food and seating arrangements can help the event continue smoothly without unnecessary stress.
Final Thoughts
A successful company picnic comes down to:
- Smart timing
- Age-inclusive entertainment
- Professional equipment
- Strong safety standards
When done right, company picnics boost morale, strengthen relationships and company culture, improve employee engagement, and create lasting memories (especially if you include a photo booth). With the right live music, food and team building activities, this company event can be a great time for everyone—and management often gets all the credit for putting together an event employees genuinely enjoy.
For more information, contact me at Tyler@abpdjs.com.
I have over 20 years of experience in the inflatable toy and event entertainment industry and am happy to help you plan an event that works.