Summer is here, and it’s time to bring some sunshine into the workplace! As the days get longer and the weather gets warmer, it’s the perfect time to show your appreciation for your hardworking team. From hosting fun outings to providing time off, celebrating your staff is a fantastic morale booster and can help create a healthy company culture. So, let’s talk about five ways to make this summer unforgettable for your team.

1. Host a company picnic 

Nothing says summer like a good old-fashioned picnic. Schedule a time during the workday (yes, we said “workday”), pack some delicious food (or have some catered) and head to a local park. Plan fun team-building games like frisbee, cornhole or even a scavenger hunt to encourage friendly competition. Doing this gives your team a chance to get outside and relax away from the office, and provides an opportunity to bond and build connections. Just be sure to bring plenty of sunblock and look for areas that provide shade. 

2. Plan winery or brewery days 

For a more unique and mature outing, plan a trip to a local winery or brewery, or maybe even a few. Rent a bus for the excursion so your team can relax and unwind. Many wineries and breweries offer tours, tastings and food pairings, making it a fun and educational experience. Just ensure everyone gets home safe and sound. 

3. Celebrate with frosty treats 

Who doesn’t love ice cream or a snowcone on a hot summer day? Organize a weekly or bi-weekly frosty-treat social at the office. Set up a toppings bar with sprinkles, chocolate chips and sauces for ice cream so everyone can create their dream sundae. Or consider renting a food truck to bring the frosty goodness to you. This sweet treat is a simple but effective way to give your team a much-needed break during the workday. 

4. Implement half-day Fridays 

Few people want to sit inside on a nice summer day. Consider giving your employees half-days on Fridays during the summer months. This gesture shows that you value their work-life balance and gives them a head start to a semi-long weekend. Your team will likely appreciate the extra time for relaxation, spending time with family or pursuing hobbies. 

5. Bond over philanthropy 

Giving back to the community can be a rewarding experience for everyone involved. Organize a volunteer day where your team can work on a charitable project. Whether participating in a charity run, cleaning up a park or highway, serving food at a shelter or helping at a local food bank, these activities can help foster a sense of unity and purpose. Bonus: It’s a wonderful way to help your community and solidify your business’s commitment to social responsibility. 

Celebrate your staff 

Showing your appreciation to your employees helps build a positive and healthy company culture. Taking time to celebrate them during the summer will help them feel valued. This not only leads to more engagement, motivation and loyalty, but it also helps foster a sense of community. Cheers to a stellar summer filled with celebration and camaraderie