As the warm weather rolls in and calendars fill up with vacations, barbecues, and beach days, there’s one event that shouldn’t be overlooked: the company summer outing. Whether it’s a casual picnic, a boat cruise, or a fun team-building day at a local park, summer outings offer more than just a break from the office—they provide real value to your team and your business.
Here’s why getting together in the summer isn’t just fun—it’s smart.
When we connect outside the context of deadlines and to-do lists, we get to know each other on a more human level. Summer outings provide an opportunity for genuine conversations, laughter, and shared experiences that foster stronger relationships across departments and roles. That sense of camaraderie doesn’t disappear when the sun sets—it comes back to the workplace in the form of better communication and collaboration.
Employee engagement often dips in the summer months. Hosting an outing is a great way to show your team they’re valued and appreciated. A Gallup study found that employees who feel recognized are more than twice as likely to say they’ll be with their company in a year. A relaxed, enjoyable day together can be a simple but powerful form of recognition.
Culture is built in the little moments. When employees look back on their time at a company, they rarely remember the weekly stand-ups—they remember the boat ride, the hilarious lawn game failure, and the impromptu karaoke session. These shared memories create a positive emotional association with the workplace, reinforcing loyalty and satisfaction.
Summer outings often include games, activities, or lighthearted challenges that naturally promote teamwork, without the pressure of KPIs. It’s a chance for people to take on different roles, show hidden strengths, and collaborate in new ways that can carry over into work.
Whether your company culture is all about fun, balance, community, or innovation, a summer event can bring those values to life. A thoughtfully planned outing that aligns with your culture sends a message: This is who we are, and we care about building this together.
In the grand scheme of business strategy, a summer outing might seem small, but the return on investment is anything but. From increased morale and retention to better teamwork and a stronger culture, a day of sunshine and connection can have a lasting impact.
So go ahead—plan that beach day, book that food truck, or reserve that rooftop patio. Your people (and your future self) will thank you.