Goodbye to the days of working in silence just to please the boss. Nowadays, smart companies get that a happy employee is a super productive one. It's all about creating a vibe where people actually enjoy their 9 to 5. When you love what you do and where you do it, it's like magic – work doesn't feel like a drag anymore.

In today's blog, we're going to look at 29 fun activities and game ideas you can use in the workplace straight away! Don't worry, it won't interfere with day to day runnings, but will be enough to put smiles on faces!

Is there room for fun in the workplace?

Bosses, listen up! Injecting fun into the workday isn't just a frivolous idea—it's a productivity powerhouse. Imagine the laughter echoing through the office, smiles replacing stress lines. When employees enjoy their tasks, creativity blossoms, and collaboration becomes a breeze. Fun fosters a positive work culture, reducing burnout and boosting morale. 

Remember, a happy team is a productive team. So, go ahead, throw in a joke, organize team-building activities, and create an environment where work feels less like a chore and more like a vibrant adventure. Even better idea? Follow our tips for a fun workplace! The result? A motivated, engaged workforce ready to conquer any challenge with a grin.

Let's get into this!

29 Fun ideas for the workplace

1. Guess the baby photo

Imagine this - the office turns into a mini art gallery, but instead of high-brow paintings, it's baby photos! Each colleague brings in a precious picture of their younger selves, and the challenge is on to match those rosy-cheeked faces with the right co-worker. This ‘get-to-know- you’ game is like a "Who's Who: The Early Years Edition."

This game brings out the detective in everyone. You get to see a different side of your colleagues, reminisce about the good ol' days, and share heartfelt laughs. 

Instructions:

1. Stealthily grab your baby photo - the cuter, the better!
2. Pin it up on the designated baby wall.
3. Armed with a pen and some detective vibes, guess away.
4. Revel in the big reveal, and celebrate the uncanny baby-face matchmakers with some well-deserved prizes.

2. Emoji storytelling

Get ready for a storytelling showdown, emoji-style! Each participant receives a handful of those tiny expressive symbols, and their mission, should they choose to accept it, is to concoct a tale or spill the beans on a personal experience using these digital hieroglyphics. It's like writing a story, but with smiley faces and thumbs up emojis stealing the spotlight!

Emoji storytelling is an exercise in creativity and interpretation. It's like decoding a secret language. As the stories unfold, the hilarious attempts at translating emojis into real-life adventures begin. It's a light-hearted, laughter-inducing journey into the world of shared imagination.

Instructions:

1. Grab your personalized emoji set - it's time to flex those creative muscles.
2. Cook up a short tale or spill the beans on a memorable experience.
3. Present your emoji masterpiece to the eager crowd.
4. Witness the guessing chaos unfold, crown the emoji storytelling champion, and bask in the glory of a well-told tale.

3. DIY Stress balls

Brace yourselves; it's time to embark on the stress-busting adventure of crafting your very own stress balls. Balloons, flour (or any chosen filling), and a sprinkle of creativity are your tools of the trade. It's DIY therapy with a squishy twist - creating a stress ally that fits snugly on your desk.

This hands-on activity is a break from the norm. When employees bond over creating a stress release, the activity turns into camaraderie, creativity, and a therapeutic crafting session. The end result? A desk buddy that's ready to take on stress, one squish at a time.

Instructions:

1. Balloons? Check. Filling? Check.
2. Stretch that balloon over the bottle or funnel, and let the filling commence.
3. Tie it off, and behold - you've birthed a stress ball.
4. Keep it close for those "deep breath, squeeze the stress away" moments, and revel in the satisfaction of crafting your very own stress-busting companion.

4. Coffee tasting

Transform your coffee break into a sensory adventure! This activity brings out the connoisseur in everyone. Participants bring their favorite coffee beans or brews, and the office turns into a mini coffee festival. This alcohol free office happy hour activity is an exploration of aromas, flavors, and the art of coffee crafting.

Coffee tasting turns a mundane break into a flavorful escapade. It's a chance for colleagues to share their coffee passions, discover new blends, and maybe even unearth a hidden barista talent among the team. Plus, who doesn't love bonding over the magic of caffeine?

Instructions:

1. Bring your favorite coffee beans or brew to the tasting table.
2. Set up a coffee station with brewing essentials.
3. Take turns tasting and discussing the nuances of each coffee.
4. Consider voting on the office's favorite blend, and maybe even organize a coffee-themed reward for the winner.

5. Desktop gaming

Say hello to productivity-boosting, stress-busting desktop gaming! During short breaks, employees get a chance to indulge in light and browser-based games installed on their office computers. And yes, we're talking about games like the infamous Google browser game with the dinosaur running, turning it into an epic office-wide leaderboard challenge.

Desktop gaming injects a burst of energy into short breaks. The leaderboard adds a friendly competition touch, spurring on a bit of healthy rivalry and creating water cooler moments filled with game strategy discussions.

Instructions:

1. Install a variety of light and browser-based games on office computers.
2. Introduce the Google dinosaur game as the centerpiece, complete with a leaderboard.
3. Encourage short gaming breaks, and let the competition commence.
4. Crown the reigning champion and perhaps reward them with a coveted "Desktop Gaming King/Queen" title.

6. Puzzle stations

Transform your office into a puzzle paradise! Puzzle stations are strategically placed around the workplace, offering employees a mental workout during breaks. It's like a treasure hunt for your brain, with puzzles ranging from crosswords to brainteasers waiting to be conquered.

Puzzle stations provide a refreshing break from screens, encouraging mental agility and problem-solving skills. Employees can collaborate, share tips, and revel in the satisfaction of cracking a challenging puzzle. It's a break that stimulates the mind and promotes a sense of accomplishment.

Instructions:

1. Set up puzzle stations in common areas or designated break spaces.
2. Include a variety of puzzles, from crosswords to Sudoku and brain teasers.
3. Encourage employees to tackle puzzles individually or collaborate with colleagues.
4. Consider hosting puzzle challenges with small prizes for those who conquer the most puzzles within a given time frame.

7. Balloon pop challenge

Welcome to the Balloon Pop Challenge, where surprises await inside every balloon! Each balloon conceals a challenge or task that employees must complete. It's like a burst of excitement and mystery every time a balloon pops, bringing a bit of thrill to the workplace.

This quick office game adds an element of surprise and camaraderie. It's an opportunity for employees to embark on unexpected tasks, whilst injecting a sense of playfulness into the workday.

Instructions:

1. Fill balloons with challenges or tasks (e.g., trivia questions, fun dares, or quick team-building activities).
2. Arrange the balloons in a designated area.
3. Employees take turns popping a balloon and must complete the challenge inside.
4. Celebrate each successful challenge with cheers and perhaps a small reward for the daring participants.

8. Team picnic

Get ready to take the office outdoors! The team picnic is a laid-back gathering in a nearby park or green space. Think blankets, picnic baskets, and a chance for colleagues to unwind in a more relaxed setting. This fun group activity focuses on building connections under the open sky.

A team picnic is a breath of fresh air, literally and figuratively. It promotes a relaxed atmosphere, encourages casual conversations, and breaks down the barriers of the traditional office setting. It's a recipe for team bonding served with a side of sunshine.

Instructions:

1. Choose a nearby park or green space with picnic-friendly amenities.
2. Organize potluck-style food contributions or cater a delightful spread.
3. Bring blankets, games, and perhaps some acoustic tunes for added ambiance.
4. Encourage everyone to kick back, enjoy the outdoors, and build connections beyond the office walls.

9. Team-building retreats

Embark on a journey beyond the office walls with our team-building retreat! This immersive experience is designed to strengthen team bonds and create a collaborative spirit in a refreshing environment. Leave behind the daily grind and embrace a retreat that combines learning, relaxation, and team-building activities.

A Team-Building Retreat is a strategic investment in your team's cohesion and productivity. It provides a break from the routine, allowing colleagues to connect on a deeper level while engaging in activities that promote teamwork, communication, and leadership skills.

Instructions:

The only instruction you need is to contact Surf Office! Let’s take a look at why:

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Contact us today to get the ball rolling!

11. Team-building workouts

Sweat it out together with team-building workouts! Organize workout sessions or classes for physical well-being, whether it's yoga, group runs, or team fitness challenges. It's a holistic approach to employee well-being that combines physical health with team spirit.

Team-building workouts bring a healthy dose of energy into the workplace. It's a break from sedentary routines as colleagues strive to achieve fitness goals together.

Instructions:

1. Collaborate with local fitness instructors or use office space for group workouts.
2. Offer a variety of activities to cater to different fitness preferences.
3. Schedule regular workout sessions, and make it convenient for everyone to participate.
4. Consider setting collective fitness goals and celebrate achievements as a team, promoting a culture of health and camaraderie.

12. Custom office playlist

This can be seen as a collaborative symphony curated by the entire team. Imagine an office where the mood is set not by the hum of fluorescent lights but by the rhythm of your colleagues' favorite tunes. Each person contributes to the playlist, creating a diverse, ever-evolving soundtrack that transforms the workspace into a harmonious haven.

This activity goes beyond the mundane. It's a journey through various music genres, reflecting the eclectic tastes of the team. Picture a Monday morning boosted by upbeat tracks or a Friday afternoon eased by mellower vibes. It's a shared experience that turns the office into a vibrant, musical community.

Instructions:

1. Set up a collaborative playlist on a platform like Spotify or Apple Music.
2. Create themed playlists for special occasions or project milestones.
3. Encourage team members to share the story behind their song choices during team meetings.
4. Witness the playlist evolve, creating a unique office soundtrack that captures the essence of your team.

13. Desk DJ battles

Following on from the previous playlist suggestion, we have a DJ battle; but at your desk. It's a friendly competition where colleagues take turns curating the perfect playlist. Each battle introduces a theme or genre, turning desks into DJ booths and the office into a dance floor. This is all about beats and a rhythmic celebration that adds a symphony of fun to the workday.

Desk DJ Battles infuse the office with energy and musical diversity. It's a chance for team members to showcase their music tastes, discover new tracks, and create an ever-evolving soundtrack for the workplace.

Instructions:

1. Establish a schedule for Desk DJ Battles, ensuring everyone gets a chance to participate.
2. Choose themes like "Throwback Thursday" or "Feel-Good Friday" for added variety.
3. Encourage participants to introduce their playlists with short explanations or fun facts.
4. Let the beats flow and celebrate the diverse musical tastes within the team.

14. Mood board creation

Step into the visual realm with mood board creation, where creativity meets strategy. Each team member crafts a visual masterpiece that encapsulates the essence of their projects. This is a process of self-expression that creates inspiration and a deeper connection to the work at hand.

This activity transforms the abstract into the tangible. It's a visual brainstorming session that sparks discussions and generates ideas within the team. The mood boards become dynamic pieces of art that reflect the collective vision of the group.

Instructions:

1. Provide materials such as magazines, glue, and boards, or introduce digital mood board creation tools.
2. Schedule a dedicated time for the team to unleash their creativity.
3. Encourage individuals to present their mood boards, explaining the symbolism and ideas behind their choices.
4. Display the boards in a shared space to serve as a visual inspiration for ongoing projects.

15. Ice cream social

Surprise, delight, and indulge – it's time for an impromptu ice cream social! Imagine a break in the workday where the team gathers for a sweet treat, sharing laughter and connecting over ice cream delights. It's not just about the flavors; it's a spontaneous celebration that adds a refreshing touch to the daily routine.

This office social event is a mini celebration that brings smiles to faces. It's a break that feels like a reward, a gesture that says, "Hey, let's take a moment to savor the sweetness of team spirit." It creates positive memories, boosts morale, and encourages a sense of camaraderie.

Instructions:

1. Plan a surprise ice cream break or designate a specific time for the social.
2. Offer a variety of ice cream flavors, toppings, and even some lactose-free or vegan options.
3. Create a laid-back atmosphere with comfortable seating and maybe some background music.
4. Encourage colleagues to share their favorite ice cream memories or create a mini ice cream-themed trivia for added fun.

16. Office movie night

Get ready for the ultimate cinema experience without leaving the office – it's office movie night! This is the perfect Friday Funday event with a cozy screening area where employees can unwind and enjoy a movie at the end of a long working week. This kind of space creates a shared area for relaxation, laughter, and a bit of cinematic magic right in the workplace.

Office Movie Night transforms breaks into mini cinematic escapes. It's a chance for colleagues to bond over shared movie preferences, providing a mental break that leaves everyone refreshed and ready to tackle the next task.

Instructions:

1. Set up a designated movie area with comfortable seating and a screen.
2. Create a rotating schedule for movie selections, considering various genres.
3. Provide snacks, blankets, and maybe even some movie trivia to enhance the experience.
4. Encourage a casual atmosphere where employees can discuss the film afterward, creating a shared film club vibe.

17. Virtual reality sessions

Enter the realm of endless possibilities with virtual reality sessions! If applicable, introduce VR games or experiences for employees to dive into during breaks. Imagine transporting your team into new dimensions of fun and exploration.

Virtual Reality Sessions elevate break time to a whole new level. It's an opportunity for employees to immerse themselves in unique experiences, encouraging creativity, and providing a mental escape that recharges the mind.

Instructions:

1. Set up a designated area with VR equipment and ensure proper training for safe use.
2. Offer a variety of VR experiences, from games to virtual tours or creative applications.
3. Establish time slots for employees to take turns enjoying VR during breaks.
4. Consider organizing friendly VR challenges or competitions to add a touch of friendly rivalry.

18. Walking meetings

Say goodbye to the traditional meeting room and hello to the great outdoors with walking meetings! It's a breath of fresh air, literally. Picture colleagues strolling and discussing projects or ideas while soaking in the benefits of nature. 

Walking meetings break the monotony of sitting and bring a burst of energy to discussions. They provide a change of scenery, boost creativity, and encourage a more relaxed and open atmosphere for communication.

Instructions:

1. Identify outdoor spaces or nearby parks suitable for walking meetings.
2. Schedule walking meetings for discussions that don't require a traditional setup.
3. Encourage participants to bring notepads or use digital devices for note-taking on the go.
4. Emphasize the informal and collaborative nature of walking meetings, making a culture of wellness and dynamic communication.

19. Language learning group

Step into a world of words with the language learning group! During breaks, employees form small groups to embark on language learning sessions. This activity is a collaborative journey where colleagues support each other's linguistic adventures, creating cultural connections and expanding horizons.

Language Learning Groups transform breaks into mini language labs. It's a chance for colleagues to bond over shared learning goals, practice conversational skills, and embark on a multicultural journey within the workplace.

Instructions:

1. Identify interested participants and form language learning groups based on common interests.
2. Utilize language learning apps, online resources, or invite language tutors for short sessions.
3. Encourage casual conversations in the chosen language during breaks to enhance practical skills.
4. Celebrate language milestones and create a supportive, learning-friendly environment.

20. Brain teasers

Challenge your gray matter with brain teasers! Downtime becomes an opportunity for mental acrobatics as employees engage in solving puzzles and riddles. This easily turns into a fun and interactive way to keep minds sharp and encourage critical thinking. 

Brain teasers turn breaks into mini mental workouts. It's a chance for employees to collaborate, share insights, and experience the satisfaction of cracking a challenging puzzle together.

Instructions:

1. Create a collection of brain teasers suitable for different difficulty levels.
2. Distribute brain teasers during breaks or as part of a designated "puzzle corner."
3. Encourage collaboration by organizing occasional team brain teaser challenges.
4. Recognize and celebrate the problem-solving prowess of the team with small rewards or shoutouts.

21. Speed networking

Enter the fast-paced world of speed networking, where employees get the chance to meet and connect with colleagues from different departments in short, structured sessions. This is a dynamic way to break down silos within the company and expand professional networks.

Speed Networking injects a dose of excitement into building professional relationships. It's an efficient and enjoyable way for employees to learn about each other's roles, skills, and interests, creating a more interconnected and collaborative workplace.

Instructions:

1. Set up designated spaces for quick one-on-one networking sessions.
2. Create a schedule with time slots for each participant to meet multiple colleagues.
3. Provide conversation starters or icebreaker questions to keep the networking flowing.
4. Conclude with a casual group gathering to encourage further conversations and connections.

22. Photography contest

Unleash the shutterbug within a Photography Contest! Employees showcase their creative talents by submitting photos around a chosen theme or category. 

A Photography Contest adds an artistic touch to the office. It encourages employees to explore their surroundings with a new perspective, creating a vibrant gallery that reflects the unique talents and interests of the team.

Instructions:

1. Announce the theme or categories for the photography contest.
2. Set a deadline for submissions and establish criteria for judging.
3. Display the photos in a common area for everyone to appreciate.
4. Celebrate the winners with recognition and perhaps a small photography-themed prize.

23. Meme competition

Dive into the world of humor with a Meme Competition! Employees channel their wit and creativity to create work-related memes that bring laughter to the workplace. This meme competition turns into a lighthearted way to share common experiences, build camaraderie, and infuse the office with a sense of humor.

This workplace competition adds a touch of playfulness to the workplace. It's an opportunity for employees to express themselves through humor, creating a shared language that transcends departments and job titles.

Instructions:

1. Set a theme or allow employees to create memes related to their daily work experiences.
2. Establish a submission deadline and a platform for sharing the memes.
3. Create a voting system for colleagues to choose their favorite memes.
4. Showcase the winning memes and perhaps organize a meme-sharing session for some collective laughter.

24. Inspirational quote wall

Transform a dull wall into a canvas of motivation with an inspirational quote wall! Employees contribute by posting quotes that inspire and uplift. You get to decorate the office and add a collective effort to create a positive and empowering atmosphere.

The Inspirational quote wall serves as a daily dose of motivation. It's a simple yet powerful way to boost morale, foster a positive mindset, and create a shared space that encourages personal and professional growth.

Instructions:

1. Designate a specific wall or bulletin board for the inspirational quote wall.
2. Provide materials like sticky notes, markers, and pins for employees to contribute.
3. Encourage individuals to share quotes that have personally motivated them.
4. Watch as the wall becomes a dynamic collage of wisdom, inspiring everyone who passes by.

25. Themed dress-up days

Inject a splash of creativity into the workweek with themed dress-up days! Whether it's "Superhero Monday" or "Throwback Thursday," employees dress up according to a chosen theme. We feel it’s a fantastic and lighthearted way to boost morale, encourage team spirit, and add a touch of fun to the usual office attire.

Themed dress-up days break the monotony of corporate attire and allow employees to express their creativity. Imagine the feel of camaraderie as everyone participates in the shared fun, creating a positive and inclusive workplace culture.

Instructions:

1. Plan a schedule of themed dress-up days, ensuring variety and inclusivity.
2. Communicate themes well in advance to give employees time to prepare.
3. Consider organizing a "Best Dressed" competition with small prizes for participants.
4. Capture the day with photos and share them to extend the joy beyond the office walls.

26. Team-building cooking class

Spice up team dynamics with a Team-building Cooking Class! Gather your colleagues in the kitchen for a hands-on culinary adventure. We all love food right? Now we get to pair it with a collaborative journey that enhances communication, teamwork, and the shared experience of creating a delicious meal together.

This team-building activity turns the mundane lunch break into a flavorful team-building activity. It promotes collaboration, problem-solving, and the joy of shared accomplishment, all while enjoying a tasty reward at the end.

Instructions:

1. Arrange for a professional chef or cooking instructor to lead the class.
2. Choose a menu that caters to various dietary preferences and culinary skill levels.
3. Organize teams and assign specific roles to each member for a truly collaborative experience.
4. Conclude the class by enjoying the fruits of your labor together, creating lasting memories and strengthening team bonds.

27. Jokeoke night

Break out the laughter and welcome Jokeoke night, where the spotlight is on humor instead of music. Participants take turns delivering their favorite jokes or trying out some new stand-up material. This is a hilarious way to bring colleagues together for a night of shared laughter and comic relief.

Jokeoke Night turns the usual karaoke stage into a comedy club atmosphere. It provides a platform for individuals to showcase their humor, boosts morale, and creates an atmosphere of joy and camaraderie.

Instructions:

1. Set up a stage or designated area for Jokeoke night, complete with a microphone.
2. Encourage participants to share their favorite jokes or try their hand at stand-up comedy.
3. Consider adding a theme for the night, such as "Pun-tastic Tuesday" or "Funny Stories Friday."
4. Invite colleagues to be the audience, creating an inclusive and supportive atmosphere for laughter.

28. Lego challenge

Let's dive into the lego challenge – a hands-on activity that's all about collaboration, problem-solving, and a splash of friendly competition. Picture this: teams armed with Lego sets, ready to unleash their creativity and build imaginative structures that represent their department or a cool theme.

Now, the lego challenge isn't just about constructing physical structures; think of it as a metaphor for weaving tight-knit, interconnected teams. It's like a creativity spark plug, nudging everyone to communicate better and achieve something awesome together. As teams bring their unique visions to life, there's a buzz of accomplishment in the air.

Instructions:

1. Equip each team with Lego sets of varying sizes and complexities.
2. Clearly communicate whether teams will be building structures representing their department or a specific theme.
3. Establish a reasonable time limit to add an element of challenge and keep the activity dynamic.
4. Emphasize the importance of creativity and originality in their designs.
5. Establish fair judging criteria, considering factors like creativity, teamwork, and adherence to the theme.
6. After the challenge, provide a platform for teams to share their creations

29. Team time capsule 

A team-building activity that's like a blast to the past and a peek into the future, all rolled into one. Imagine teams coming together to create a time capsule filled with items or notes that capture the essence of the current work environment. Why? Because we're making a time-traveling treasure chest, set to be opened at a later date for a nostalgic journey.

Now, the team time capsule isn't just about collecting random bits and pieces. It's a unique way to bond, reflect, and leave a little piece of today for the team of tomorrow. It's like planting a time-traveling seed for future colleagues to discover and connect with.

Instructions:

1. Arm each team with the task of hunting down items or notes that scream "This is us right now!"
2. Make it clear that these items or notes should represent the current work environment – the quirks, the inside jokes, the team spirit.
3. Once the team has gathered their time-traveling treasures, seal them in a container or capsule. Maybe even get a bit artsy with the sealing process!
4. Choose a future date for the grand opening – a date that promises a journey down memory lane.
5. Encourage teams to document why they chose each item or note. It's like leaving behind a little message for the future time-travelers.

FAQs

How would you have fun while at work?

Inject humor into your day – share a funny meme, have light-hearted conversations with colleagues, or take short breaks to recharge. A touch of laughter can turn a mundane workday into an enjoyable one.

What fun activities can you do at work?

Integrate fun into your workday with activities like sharing jokes or interesting trivia with colleagues, organizing brief team challenges, or taking short breaks to engage in quick, enjoyable activities.  Make sure to check our ist for more ideas!

How can I make my workplace enjoyable?

Encourage a positive atmosphere by acknowledging achievements, encouraging open communication, and personalizing your workspace. Building strong connections with colleagues, and occasionally organizing team-building activities, can contribute to a more enjoyable and supportive workplace.