Why organize a company afterwork in September?

Beyond the social aspect, a September afterwork serves real managerial and HR goals. Consider it to :

Reboot collective energy

After the break, everyone comes back at a different pace and level of focus. An informal corporate event is ideal for resetting the tone in a relaxed setting.

Boost team cohesion

A unique company afterwork acts as a powerful ice-breaker. It helps lower barriers, foster interdepartmental connections, and ease the onboarding of new hires.

Set a positive tone for the year

Kicking things off with a unifying event sends a clear message: this year is about collaboration, engagement, and shared goals.

Create lasting memories

A well-thought-out afterwork becomes a moment of shared fun and connection, a collective memory that lives on well after the event. It also strengthens your company culture and employer brand.

👉 Also read : What are the hidden costs of a corporate event ?

7 activity ideas for an original and engaging afterwork

The goal is clear : go beyond the usual office drinks by offering fun, accessible, and interactive activities. Here are a few formats employees love:

1. Mixology or tasting workshop

Led by an expert, employees learn how to craft their own cocktails or enjoy a curated tasting of local wines or creative mocktails. It’s classy, inclusive, and highly convivial.

2. Blind test or interactive quiz

Nothing beats a well-hosted music blind test or themed quiz (pop culture, sports, company trivia) to spark friendly competition and laughs.

3. Immersive investigation or pop-up escape game

An on-site or off-site detective game is a great way to foster teamwork and ease conversations, even between colleagues who don’t know each other well.

4. Team mural or street art workshop

Create a collaborative art piece that lets individuals express themselves while strengthening their sense of belonging to the company.

5. DIY, ceramics, or floral design workshop

Hands-on, relaxing, and creative, these workshops encourage informal chats and let everyone leave with a handmade keepsake.

6. Live karaoke or DJ set

A DJ, mood lighting, and a karaoke stage are a sure-fire way to break the ice and shift the mood into party mode. Perfect for ending the day on a high note.

7. Custom photo booth

Add a playful touch with a branded photo booth. Employees will love sharing their snaps internally or on social media. It’s also great for employer branding and internal comms.

Choosing the right venue for a successful company afterwork

The setting has a big impact on how the event is perceived. It should surprise and delight, without adding logistical headaches.

Outdoors under a nomadic tent

Stretch tent, or bamboo tents can transform a garden, courtyard, or terrace into a true event space. Ideal for extending that summer feeling.

Unusual and inspiring venues

Urban rooftops, barges, creative spaces, or guinguettes, these offbeat spots leave a lasting impression. They’re especially popular in cities like Paris, Lyon, or Bordeaux.

On-site but transformed

Turning your own workspace into an event venue is a simple and cost-effective option. A themed bar, lounge furniture, fairy lights, and a few key decor elements can create a whole new vibe.

Rooftops or urban terraces

Located in the city ? A rooftop or a terrace with a view adds a chic yet relaxed touch, especially at golden hour.

👉 Also read : How to organize a summer party for your company ?

Logistics : best practices to ensure a smooth afterwork

• Plan for bad weather (backup plan or waterproof structures) ;
  
• Choose an accessible location (public transport, PMR access, parking) ;
  
• Pick a dynamic time slot: 6:30–9 p.m. usually works well for a professional afterwork.

Our tips for a successful corporate afterwork

A great afterwork is all about solid planning and attention to detail. Here’s what really makes the difference:

Make the invitation irresistible

Set the tone from the start. Use eye-catching visuals, a teaser of the program and clear practical info. Your goal : make people want to attend, not feel like they have to.

Keep it casual and time-friendly

An afterwork isn’t a seminar. Favor a relaxed format with no mandatory participation. Leave room for spontaneity, that’s where the magic often happens.

Create a true atmosphere

Ambient lighting, a thoughtful playlist, comfortable furniture, helpful signage, these small touches transform an average evening into a memorable one. The decor should enhance the experience, not just look pretty.

Think inclusivity

A successful event is one where everyone feels welcome. Offer non-alcoholic drinks, allergy-conscious and vegetarian menus, accessible facilities, and a range of activities for different personalities, creative, festive, or introverted.

Choose responsible partners

Work with vendors who share your values : sustainable materials, waste reduction, local sourcing, reusables. An eco-conscious afterwork shows your teams you care and that never goes unnoticed.

Maybe the best way to start the year… is to raise a glass under fairy lights. A well-designed afterwork blends conviviality and strategy seamlessly. You sip a drink, laugh over a blind test, chat with colleagues from other teams and just like that, connections form and team spirit strengthens.

Looking to plan an afterwork that truly reflects your company’s culture ? Atawa designs tailor-made, turnkey ephemeral venues to turn your corporate events into unforgettable memories.