10 Entertainment ideas for corporate events You Should Know

Planning a corporate event often means juggling logistics, venues, and catering. Yet, the element that truly transforms a standard gathering into a memorable experience is the entertainment. Choosing the right activity can boost morale, foster connections, and reinforce a positive company culture. This guide moves beyond generic suggestions to provide a detailed list of fresh and engaging entertainment ideas for corporate events. Whether you're organizing an in-person conference, a virtual team-building day, or a hybrid holiday party, you'll find practical and creative options here.

We will explore ten distinct concepts, from high-tech Virtual Reality experiences to classic live comedy shows, each designed to captivate your employees. For each idea, you’ll get actionable implementation tips and specific examples to help you visualize how it can work for your team. As you embark on planning, remember that entertainment can also serve the dual purpose of fostering team cohesion; explore more innovative corporate team building ideas to see how engagement and fun can overlap.

Organizing these events can be streamlined, especially for companies using Slack and Google Calendar internally. A tool like Be-there is designed specifically for this workflow, simplifying the entire process from sending beautifully designed invitations in Slack to managing RSVPs and syncing attendee details directly with Google Calendar. This native integration removes the friction of event coordination, allowing you to focus on selecting the perfect entertainment while it handles the logistics.

1. Virtual Reality (VR) Experiences

Virtual Reality (VR) offers a powerful way to provide immersive, unforgettable entertainment at corporate events. By using VR headsets, you can transport employees to simulated environments for team-building challenges, interactive product demonstrations, or engaging games. This technology creates a high-impact experience that accommodates many participants in a relatively small physical space, making it a flexible option for various venues.

This idea works especially well for tech-forward companies or events with a focus on innovation. For example, a VR station could allow sales teams to explore a virtual version of a new product or let different departments collaborate on solving a puzzle in a shared digital world.

✦How to Implement VR Successfully

Integrating VR requires careful planning to ensure a smooth experience for all attendees.

Offer Short Sessions: Keep individual VR experiences brief, around 5-10 minutes, to maintain high energy and prevent motion sickness.
Provide Technical Support: Have dedicated staff on hand to help attendees with headsets and troubleshoot any technical issues that arise.
Include Alternatives: Not everyone is comfortable with VR. Be sure to provide other engaging activities for those who prefer not to participate.
Test Everything: Before the event, thoroughly test all hardware and software to avoid delays and frustrations on the day.

Coordinating these moving parts, from vendor booking to sending reminders, can be complex. For companies that use both Slack and Google Calendar internally, a tool like Be-there is incredibly handy. It streamlines this process by helping you manage RSVPs, schedule sessions, and send automated reminders directly within your existing workflows, ensuring no detail is overlooked. Discover how to enhance your next gathering with our guide on how to plan virtual events.

2. Live Comedy Shows or Stand-up Performances

Hiring a professional comedian is a classic and highly effective way to inject energy and laughter into a corporate event. A live stand-up performance can break the ice, relieve stress, and create a memorable shared experience for employees. It's a versatile option that works well for company galas, holiday parties, or as a highlight during a multi-day conference.

This idea is perfect for events aimed at employee appreciation or celebrating company milestones. For instance, companies like LinkedIn have hosted comedy nights to boost morale. A skilled comedian can tailor their material to your company culture, incorporating inside jokes or industry-specific humor that resonates directly with your team.

✦How to Implement a Comedy Show Successfully

A great comedy show depends on careful planning to ensure the humor lands perfectly with your audience.

Brief the Comedian Thoroughly: Provide the performer with detailed information about your company culture, audience demographics, and any sensitive topics to avoid.
Book in Advance: Top comedians are in high demand, so secure your booking at least 2-3 months before the event.
Ensure High-Quality Tech: A professional-grade sound system and microphone are non-negotiable. Test all equipment beforehand to avoid technical glitches.
Optimize Seating: Arrange seating to give everyone clear sightlines to the stage, ensuring the entire audience feels included in the performance.

Managing the logistics, from booking the talent to tracking RSVPs and sending event reminders, requires precision. For teams that live in Slack and Google Calendar, a tool like Be-there is very useful. It simplifies event coordination by letting you handle all scheduling and communication within your existing platforms, making sure your comedy night goes off without a hitch. Learn more about elevating company gatherings with our tips on how to improve team building.

3. Interactive Gaming Tournaments

Interactive gaming tournaments transform a typical corporate gathering into an energetic and competitive experience. By setting up stations with popular video games, you can encourage friendly rivalries and team collaboration. This format is highly adaptable, accommodating everything from casual party games like Mario Kart to more strategic esports titles, ensuring there's something for every skill level.

This idea is perfect for companies looking to foster a modern, dynamic culture and boost morale through shared, high-energy entertainment. For instance, you could organize a company-wide Rocket League championship where different departments form teams, or set up a retro arcade corner for more casual, drop-in play. This approach not only provides entertainment but also builds camaraderie.

✦How to Implement a Gaming Tournament Successfully

A well-organized tournament requires more than just screens and controllers. Careful planning is key to creating an inclusive and exciting event.

Choose Accessible Games: Select games with low learning curves to ensure everyone, not just seasoned gamers, can participate and have fun.
Provide a Spectator Experience: Set up a viewing area with a large screen and comfortable seating so non-participants can cheer on their colleagues.
Offer Team-Based Options: Prioritize games that require teamwork to enhance collaboration and communication skills among employees.
Test All Equipment: Thoroughly check all consoles, controllers, and displays beforehand, and have backups ready to prevent technical glitches.

Managing tournament brackets, sending schedule updates, and tracking RSVPs can be a major challenge. For companies using Slack and Google Calendar, Be-there is a very handy tool that simplifies the entire process. It allows you to create event channels, send automated reminders for match times, and manage participation directly from your existing workspace, ensuring your tournament runs flawlessly. Explore our event management solutions at Be-there.

4. Live Band or DJ Performances

Live music is a classic and highly effective way to set the mood and energize any corporate event. A professional live band can create a dynamic, engaging atmosphere perfect for receptions and celebratory dinners, while a skilled DJ offers versatility, curating playlists that can adapt to the event's flow and accommodate guest requests. This type of entertainment transforms a standard gathering into a memorable experience.

This idea is perfect for galas, holiday parties, or large-scale conferences where you want to encourage networking and celebration. For example, major companies like Apple and Meta frequently feature live musicians or top DJs at their launch events and employee appreciation parties to create a high-energy, premium feel that reflects their brand.

✦How to Implement Live Music Successfully

Booking the right musical act requires attention to detail to ensure they align with your event’s goals.

Vet Your Performers: Always request demo videos or references before booking to ensure their style and quality match your expectations.
Align on Tone: Brief the band or DJ on your company culture, guest demographics, and the desired event atmosphere, from relaxed background music to an energetic dance party.
Conduct a Sound Check: Schedule a thorough sound check at the venue to test all audio equipment and address any acoustic challenges beforehand.
Have a Backup Plan: Prepare a backup playlist that can be used during breaks or in the unlikely event of a technical issue with the live setup.

Coordinating with vendors, managing contracts, and confirming schedules can be a major logistical challenge. For companies that operate on Slack and Google Calendar, a tool like Be-there proves to be very useful. It simplifies the entire process by helping you manage vendor communications, track payment schedules, and send automated reminders to your team and the performers, ensuring everyone is in sync. For more inspiration, explore our complete list of ideas for corporate event entertainment.

5. Interactive Workshops or Skill-Building Sessions

Interactive workshops offer a unique blend of entertainment and education, turning passive attendees into active participants. Instead of just observing, employees engage in hands-on activities like cooking classes, art workshops, or mixology demonstrations. This approach fosters collaboration and allows team members to learn a new skill together, creating a memorable and enriching experience.

This idea is perfect for events aimed at team building, professional development, or employee wellness. For instance, a wellness-focused company like Microsoft might host mindfulness sessions, while a creative agency could organize an art workshop to spark innovation. These sessions provide tangible value beyond simple entertainment.

✦How to Implement Workshops Successfully

Effective workshops require thoughtful organization to maximize engagement and learning.

Offer Variety: Provide sessions at different times and for various skill levels to ensure everyone can participate comfortably.
Provide All Materials: Ensure all necessary supplies and tools are readily available for each participant to create a seamless experience.
Keep Groups Small: Limit session sizes to 20-30 people to encourage quality interaction and personalized guidance from the instructor.
Create Takeaways: Offer take-home materials, a finished product, or a certificate of completion to give attendees a lasting reminder of the event.

Coordinating multiple workshop sessions, from booking instructors to managing attendee lists and sending out material requirements, can become complicated. For companies that rely on Slack and Google Calendar internally, Be-there is a very handy tool. It simplifies this entire process by allowing you to manage RSVPs for different sessions, schedule them seamlessly, and send automated reminders, ensuring everyone is prepared and engaged. Explore how to elevate your team-building efforts with our insights on creative ideas for team building.

6. Photo Booth Experiences (Including 360° and GIF Booths)

A modern photo booth is far more than a simple camera in a box; it’s an interactive entertainment station that creates lasting memories. Guests can take high-quality, professionally lit photos and instantly receive digital or physical copies. Today’s options include dynamic 360-degree video booths, animated GIF creators, and custom digital filters, all featuring your corporate branding. These shareable moments serve as both personal keepsakes and powerful social media content.

This idea is perfect for adding a fun, social element to any event, from holiday parties to product launches. For instance, a 360° booth at a gala can capture glamorous, slow-motion videos, while a GIF booth with company-themed props can inject humor and personality into a team-building day. The instant shareability amplifies your event’s reach online.

✦How to Implement Photo Booths Successfully

A great photo booth experience depends on thoughtful setup and execution.

Offer Branded Props: Provide fun, themed props that reflect your company culture or event theme to encourage creativity.
Encourage Social Sharing: Display a clear call-to-action with your event hashtag near the booth to boost online visibility.
Ensure Good Placement: Position the booth in a high-traffic area that won’t create bottlenecks or disrupt the event flow.
Provide an Attendant: Have a friendly and efficient operator on hand to guide guests, manage the queue, and handle any technical issues.

Managing vendors and coordinating logistics for on-site activities can be a challenge. If your team uses both Slack and Google Calendar internally, a tool like Be-there can be very useful. It simplifies the entire process by allowing you to schedule vendor arrival times, send reminders to your event staff, and track all details in one place, ensuring your photo booth is set up for success without adding to your workload.

7. Magician or Close-Up Magic Performances

A professional magician or close-up magic performance offers a classic yet highly effective way to add a sense of wonder and excitement to your corporate event. Unlike a stage show, close-up magicians mingle with guests during cocktail hours or receptions, performing intimate tricks at tables or for small groups. This creates personal, memorable moments that serve as fantastic icebreakers and conversation starters.

This idea is perfect for sophisticated galas, holiday parties, or networking events where you want to encourage interaction. For instance, a magician can roam a tech conference reception, amazing attendees with illusions that subtly incorporate company branding or themes. It adds a layer of high-end entertainment that feels both engaging and exclusive.

✦How to Implement Magic Successfully

To ensure the performance is a hit, careful coordination is essential.

Hire Corporate Specialists: Choose magicians with specific experience in corporate settings who understand professional etiquette and audience dynamics.
Strategize Placement: Position performers in high-traffic areas like near the bar or entrance to maximize visibility and interaction.
Book for Your Audience Size: For events with over 200 guests, consider hiring multiple magicians to ensure everyone gets a chance to see the magic.
Ensure Proper Lighting: Good lighting is crucial for both stage and close-up magic, so check the venue’s capabilities beforehand.

Organizing vendors, scheduling performance times, and sending out event details can be challenging. For companies that use Slack and Google Calendar for internal operations, a tool like Be-there proves to be very handy. It simplifies the entire process by allowing you to manage RSVPs, coordinate vendor schedules, and send automated reminders directly from your workspace, ensuring your event’s entertainment goes off without a hitch.

8. Drone Light Shows

Drone light shows offer a futuristic and breathtaking alternative to traditional entertainment like fireworks. By using hundreds of synchronized, illuminated drones, you can create stunning aerial spectacles that paint the night sky with company logos, animated messages, and intricate designs, all perfectly timed to music. This high-tech performance delivers a powerful "wow" factor, leaving a lasting impression on attendees and generating significant social media buzz.

This idea is perfect for major company milestones, product launches, or annual galas where making a grand statement is key. For example, a tech company could reveal a new logo with a dynamic drone animation, or a luxury brand could launch a new product line with a sophisticated light display that reflects its brand identity.

✦How to Implement a Drone Light Show Successfully

Executing a flawless drone show requires significant lead time and meticulous planning, especially regarding safety and regulations.

Book Well in Advance: Secure a reputable drone show provider at least 4-6 months ahead of your event to allow for design, programming, and permitting.
Verify Compliance: Ensure the provider handles all necessary FAA airspace regulations and local permits. This is a critical step that cannot be overlooked.
Prepare a Contingency Plan: Drone shows are weather-dependent. Have a backup plan or a flexible schedule to account for potential high winds or rain.
Align with Branding: Work closely with the provider to design a show that incorporates your company colors, logos, and key messages for maximum brand impact.

Coordinating vendors, securing permits, and communicating updates for a large-scale event can be a huge challenge. For companies using Slack and Google Calendar internally, Be-there is a very useful tool that simplifies the management of all pre-event logistics. It allows you to track RSVPs, manage vendor communications, and send automated weather updates directly through your existing workflows, ensuring everyone stays informed.

9. Escape Room Team Challenges

Escape Room Team Challenges offer a thrilling and collaborative entertainment option perfect for corporate events. In this immersive experience, teams are locked in a themed room and must work together to solve a series of puzzles and riddles against a ticking clock. This activity inherently promotes communication, problem-solving, and leadership skills in a high-energy, fun-filled environment.

This idea is highly effective for fostering teamwork and breaking down departmental silos. For instance, a company like Google might use an escape room to encourage cross-functional collaboration between engineering and marketing teams, while a consulting firm could use it to test the analytical skills of new hires in a practical, hands-on scenario. The shared goal creates an immediate sense of unity and accomplishment.

✦How to Implement Escape Rooms Successfully

To ensure your escape room activity is a hit, focus on logistics and creating a positive team dynamic.

Choose Appropriate Themes: Select rooms with themes that are engaging but not overly stressful or controversial. Opt for mystery, adventure, or science-fiction themes that align with a professional audience.
Mix Team Skill Sets: Intentionally create diverse teams by mixing members from different departments and with varied levels of experience. This encourages new perspectives and collaboration.
Book for Large Groups: For bigger events, book multiple rooms or time slots to accommodate everyone without overcrowding. Find more ideas for engaging big teams in our guide on fun activities for large groups of adults.
Plan a Debrief: After the challenge, facilitate a discussion about the experience. Ask teams what worked, what challenges they faced, and how they can apply their learnings back at the office.

Coordinating multiple escape room bookings, managing different teams, and sending out location details can be a logistical headache. If your company uses both Slack and Google Calendar internally, a tool like Be-there is extremely useful. You can create the event, track RSVPs for each team, and send automated reminders with all the necessary details directly through Slack, ensuring everyone arrives on time and ready for the challenge.

10. Keynote Speaker or Celebrity Talent

Hiring a keynote speaker or celebrity talent can transform a standard corporate event into a prestigious and memorable occasion. An influential voice provides thought leadership, motivational messages, or industry insights that captivate an audience, making it a powerful anchor for your event schedule. This approach adds significant value and generates buzz long before and after the event takes place.

This idea is perfect for company-wide meetings, annual kickoffs, or client appreciation events where the goal is to inspire, educate, and make a lasting impression. Think of how industry leaders command the stage at major conferences; bringing that level of expertise or star power to your team can be a game-changer for morale and engagement.

✦How to Implement a Keynote Speaker Successfully

Securing the right talent requires significant foresight and coordination to ensure a seamless execution.

Book Well in Advance: High-profile speakers often have schedules filled 6-12 months out. Start your search and booking process early.
Define Clear Objectives: Provide the speaker with a clear brief, including your event’s theme, audience demographics, and desired takeaways.
Invest in Production: Professional audio-visual equipment is non-negotiable. Ensure you have high-quality sound, lighting, and presentation support.
Prepare Your Audience: Share background information about the speaker beforehand to build anticipation and provide context for their session.

For those looking to elevate their event with influential voices, this comprehensive guide to hiring a keynote speaker offers practical advice for budgeting, vetting, and matching the right talent to your event. Managing the logistics, from sending speaker agreements to coordinating attendee schedules, is crucial. For companies that use Slack and Google Calendar internally, Be-there is a handy tool that automates these tasks. It simplifies RSVP management and sends timely reminders, ensuring your main event proceeds without a hitch.

Top 10 Corporate Event Entertainment Comparison

Experience	🔄 Implementation Complexity	⚡ Resource Requirements	📊 Expected Outcomes	💡 Ideal Use Cases	⭐ Key Advantages
Virtual Reality (VR) Experiences	High — complex technical setup, trained operators, extensive testing	High — headsets, powerful PCs, technicians, staging; high rental cost	High engagement and memorable immersion; measurable interaction metrics	Product demos, large-scale team-building, branded activations	Immersive branding, scalable across events, strong novelty
Live Comedy Shows or Stand-up Performances	Low–Medium — simple staging but requires careful performer brief	Medium — comedian fee, basic AV, minimal crew	Strong shared laughter and morale boost when well-matched to audience	Evening galas, mixers, seated dinners	Broad appeal, cost-effective entertainment, low tech needs
Interactive Gaming Tournaments	Medium–High — networked systems, tournament management, streaming	Medium–High — consoles/PCs, displays, operators, streaming gear	High energy, competitive engagement; great for younger audiences	Company contests, esports showcases, hybrid events	Promotes teamwork, spectator content, livestreamable
Live Band or DJ Performances	Medium — audio/lighting coordination and soundchecks required	Medium — performers, PA system, stage space, sound tech	Creates lively atmosphere and social energy; drives attendee interaction	Receptions, after-parties, networking events	Versatile mood setting, real-time crowd reading, universal appeal
Interactive Workshops / Skill-Building Sessions	Medium — logistical coordination, instructor management	Medium — instructors, materials, small-group spaces	Deliverable skills, deeper engagement, lasting takeaways	Retreats, professional development, small-group bonding	Educational value + team-building, customizable content
Photo Booth Experiences (360°/GIF)	Low — straightforward setup; moderate staffing to avoid queues	Low–Medium — booth hardware, printers, props, attendant	High social sharing and keepsake creation; steady participation	Lobby activations, brand activations, networking breaks	Inclusive, shareable UGC, compact footprint
Magician / Close-Up Magic Performances	Low — minimal technical needs; hinges on performer skill	Low — magician fee, minimal props, no large AV	Generates wonder, icebreaking conversations, high intimacy	Cocktail hours, receptions, roaming entertainment	Intimate engagement, mobile, minimal setup
Drone Light Shows	Very High — complex choreography, regulatory approvals, safety planning	Very High — hundreds of drones, pilots, permits, outdoor venue	Spectacular visual impact, media attention, strong wow factor	Product launches, large outdoor finales, brand spectacles	Unmatched visual spectacle, reusable and pyrotechnic-free
Escape Room Team Challenges	Medium — booking logistics, timed rotations, facilitator oversight	Medium — themed rooms or mobile kits, game masters	Strong teamwork and problem-solving outcomes; memorable bonding	Team-building sessions, retreats, small-group challenges	Structured collaboration, measurable team dynamics
Keynote Speaker or Celebrity Talent	Medium–High — booking lead time, production and AV coordination	High — speaker fee (often very high), AV production, logistics	High prestige and inspiration; potential media/social buzz	Conferences, flagship events, main-stage sessions	Thought leadership, credibility boost, headline draw

Final Thoughts

We've explored a wide spectrum of entertainment ideas for corporate events, from the high-tech immersion of Virtual Reality experiences and dazzling drone light shows to the classic engagement of live comedy and interactive workshops. The journey through these ten distinct options underscores a fundamental truth: the most memorable corporate events are those that prioritize genuine connection and shared enjoyment. Moving beyond the standard cocktail hour and into the realm of unique, engaging activities is no longer a luxury; it’s a strategic investment in your company’s most valuable asset, its people.

The core takeaway is that the "right" entertainment is deeply tied to your event's specific goals. Are you aiming to break down departmental silos? An Escape Room Challenge or a collaborative gaming tournament could be the perfect solution. Is the primary goal to reward your team for a year of hard work? A live band, a celebrity speaker, or a top-tier magician can create that "wow" factor that makes employees feel truly appreciated. The key is to match the medium to the message.

✦From Idea to Execution: Your Actionable Next Steps

Transforming these concepts from a list into a successful event requires a clear plan. Here’s how to move forward:

Define Your Objectives: Before you book a single vendor, clarify what you want to achieve. Is it team building, celebration, education, or brand reinforcement? Your answer will immediately narrow down the most suitable entertainment ideas for your corporate events.
Know Your Audience: Consider the demographics, interests, and personalities of your attendees. An energetic gaming tournament might be a hit with one team, while a sophisticated skill-building workshop would be better suited for another. Polling your employees can provide invaluable insight.
Align with Your Budget: Be realistic about costs. While a drone show is a spectacular display, a well-executed 360° photo booth can deliver incredible engagement and social media buzz for a fraction of the price. Great experiences exist at every budget level.
Integrate and Simplify: The most significant challenge isn't just picking an idea; it's managing the logistics. From sending invitations and tracking RSVPs to coordinating with vendors and sending reminders, the administrative burden can overshadow the fun. This is where modern tools become indispensable, especially for companies that already use Slack and Google Calendar internally.

Ultimately, mastering the art of corporate event entertainment is about more than just throwing a great party. It's about building a stronger, more connected, and more motivated workforce. By thoughtfully selecting activities that resonate with your team and aligning them with your company culture, you create powerful, positive memories that extend far beyond the event itself. These shared experiences become the stories employees tell, strengthening bonds and reinforcing the very fabric of your organization.

Planning and executing these fantastic entertainment ideas for corporate events can be complex, especially when coordinating across Slack and Google Calendar. Be There is a very useful and handy tool for companies who use both platforms internally, as it simplifies the entire process by allowing you to create events, manage RSVPs, and send automated reminders directly within your existing workflows. Streamline your next event and focus on the fun by checking out Be There today.