Corporate gala 2026 : 10 theme ideas to make your evening unforgettable

Corporate Event
10 trendy themes for your corporate event in 2026

In 2026, a corporate gala is much more than just a party, it’s a statement of your company’s culture, vision and ambitions. It’s one of the key moments of the year, where the live experience often speaks louder than any PowerPoint presentation. Today’s audience expects more: they want to be surprised, moved and immersed in an environment that reflects the company’s identity and values. This is where the theme comes into play. When chosen with purpose, it becomes the narrative backbone of your event. Scenography, entertainment and messaging all align to create emotion and long-lasting memories. To spark your inspiration, here are 10 event themes that will stand out in 2026, all of which can be adapted to any setting, including tented events.

1. Futurism and immersive technology

This theme transports your guests into the world of tomorrow. Think sleek furniture, programmable LED lighting, interactive screens and digital backdrops, every element should evoke innovation. Technology becomes a key player in your scenography. Perfect for tech firms or product launches, this futuristic mood positions your brand as forward-thinking. 

Entertainment can include AR experiences, robots, or holographic projections. Under a tent, a geodesic dome with 360° projection delivers complete immersion. In 2026, this theme will remain popular for its visual impact and ability to showcase an avant-garde identity.

2. French elegance

Celebrate French art de vivre with gold accents, floral arrangements, chandeliers, fine china and Louis XVI-style furniture. This classic, sophisticated theme highlights craftsmanship and elevates your brand's prestige. 

Entertainment options include wine or cheese tastings, a string quartet or a caricature artist. Under a tent, a Clear Roof Marquee with parquet flooring and draped ceilings creates a grand yet intimate ballroom feel. Still highly appreciated in 2026, this theme offers timeless style with wide appeal, especially for premium brands and clients.

3. Cabaret and roaring twenties

Inspired by 1920s Paris, this theme combines glamour, live music and festive ambiance. The decor features velvet, gold details, Art Deco patterns, dimmed lighting and a central dance floor. Ideal for year-end galas, team celebrations or client appreciation nights

Entertainment includes Charleston dance shows, swing DJs and a retro cocktail bar. For tent setups, choose an opaque structure to enhance stage lighting and carve out lounge zones. Making a strong comeback in 2026, this theme wins points for its vintage charm, social appeal and photogenic decor.

👉 Also read : 10 tips for oragnizing and making a successful corporate evening with Atawa. 

4. Green and eco-responsible

Sustainability is no longer a trend,  it’s an expectation. This theme emphasizes natural aesthetics and conscious choices : recycled materials, lush greenery, biodegradable tableware and local catering. The ambiance is calm, grounded, often inspired by nature. Offer DIY workshops, anti-waste stands or unplugged concerts. 

In tent format, opt for a stretch or open air tent decorated with hanging plants and soft lighting. Popular in 2026, this theme is perfect for companies that align their events with CSR commitments and want to host a truly sustainable experience.

5. Cinema and red carpet

Bring the glitz and glamour of Hollywood to your gala. Roll out the red carpet, cue the camera flashes and dress the venue in black and gold. Use the event to put your brand in the spotlight with awards, street-style interviews, retrospective videos or Oscar-style sequences. The must-have : a photo wall reminiscent of celebrity entrances. 

Under a tent, create a theatrical entrance tunnel with dynamic lighting. In 2026, the cinema theme will remain a hit for its emotional resonance, celebration of people, and potential for viral content.

6. White party on the Riviera

Minimalist, fresh and refined, this theme is inspired by chic summer parties in the South of France. All elements, tablecloths, furniture, guest attire,  follow a white or beige palette. Add suspended lanterns, potted olive trees, candles and a lounge-style playlist for an instant Côte d’Azur vibe. 

This theme suits outdoor celebrations or relaxed networking events. Entertainment includes rosé bars, live sketch artists or soft DJ sets. Use an open stretch tent to let in light and airflow. In 2026, this theme will win hearts for its simplicity, ease of styling and relaxed elegance.

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

7. Venetian masquerade ball

Mystery, luxury and ambiance are at the heart of this theatrical theme. Picture baroque masks, heavy drapery, gilded details, candlelight and mirrors to set the tone. Great for industries tied to art, culture or luxury. Offer live opera, costume parades or mask-making workshops. 

A crystal tent with indirect lighting will heighten contrasts and create visual depth. In 2026, the masquerade ball theme is still fashionable for its refined aesthetic and immersive quality.

8. Journey around the world

Celebrate diversity with a culinary and cultural journey through multiple regions. Divide the event space into themed zones (Latin America, Asia, Africa, Europe), each with unique decor, cuisine and music. Perfect for large international firms or those highlighting inclusion and multiculturalism. 

Include traditional dance shows, world quizzes or interactive stands. In a tented version, use modular partitions and customized lighting to define each space. This theme will grow in popularity in 2026 for its interactivity, storytelling potential and universal appeal.

9. Cosmos and astronomy

For something spectacular and symbolic, this theme explores space, stars and the unknown. Think galaxy lighting, glowing furniture, and planetary installations. Ideal for anniversaries, strategic milestones or transformational moments. 

Entertainment options include a mobile planetarium, molecular mixology or electro-cosmic DJ sets. Under a geodesic dome with interior projections, this theme becomes fully immersive. In 2026, it's a favorite among tech, science and cultural sectors for its dreamlike atmosphere and bold creativity.

👉 Also read : How to choose a professional reception tent for your corporate event ?

10. Contemporary art and design

With this theme, your event becomes a curated art experience. Use sculptural furniture, lighting installations, artwork and gallery-style spaces to stimulate the senses. Tailor-made for creative industries or forward-thinking brands. 

Activities might include collaborative murals, live performances or interactive sculptures. Choose a minimalist cubic tent to let the art take center stage. In 2026, this theme will stand out for its fusion of event and cultural experience, a great way to position your brand through emotion and aesthetic innovation.

Choosing a theme is just the beginning. It sets the creative direction, but also involves logistics and technical coordination: flooring, lighting, staging, safety, permits and more. At Atawa, we combine bold scenography and solid technical expertise, ensuring that every detail contributes to a seamless, unforgettable experience.

👉 Explore our corporate gala portfolio

Published on 06/20/2025 by Pauline

Fanny Dornier

Head of the Île-de-France region

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