Top 2025 Ideas for Large Group Team Building Activities

29 June 2025

Estimated reading time: 6 minutes

In 2025, team building for large groups is more dynamic, creative, and impactful than ever. As organizations recognize the direct link between engaged teams and business success, the demand for innovative, customizable, and memorable group experiences is soaring. At UP Events, we’re passionate about transforming corporate gatherings into unforgettable adventures that spark collaboration, creativity, and connection.

The Evolution of Team Building: 2025 Trends & Insights

Team building has come a long way from trust falls and icebreakers. According to recent research, companies that invest in team-building activities see 21% higher profitability and 59% less turnover (Forbes). In the Netherlands and globally, organizations are seeking experiences that blend fun, learning, and real business outcomes.

Key 2025 trends include:

  • Tech-powered experiences: VR and AR challenges for hybrid and in-person teams.
  • Sustainability: Eco-friendly retreats and green initiatives.
  • Experiential learning: Activities that build skills while entertaining.
  • Inclusivity: Events designed for diverse abilities and backgrounds.

Let’s dive into the top 2025 ideas for large group team building activities, backed by expert advice, industry data, and our own experience at UP Events.

1. Expedition Robinson Team Challenge

Inspired by adventure reality shows, this challenge is a perennial favorite for large groups (50–500+ participants). Teams compete in a series of outdoor physical and mental challenges — think obstacle courses, puzzles, and survival games. The format encourages:

  • Strategic thinking
  • Communication under pressure
  • Resilience and adaptability

Our clients love Expedition Robinson for its energy and the way it brings out hidden talents in every team member. According to event planners, “Adventure-based activities like these are proven to break down barriers and foster genuine collaboration” (Teamland).

2. VR Team Challenge: The Future of Hybrid Team Building

Virtual reality is revolutionizing team building. VR challenges immerse participants in interactive missions — solving puzzles, escaping virtual rooms, or completing collaborative quests. This format is perfect for large, distributed teams, as it bridges physical gaps and offers a unique, memorable experience.

Benefits:

  • Engages tech-savvy teams
  • Accessible for remote and in-person participants
  • Encourages creative problem-solving

A recent survey found that 87% of companies using VR for team building reported higher engagement and improved communication (HR Technologist).

3. Outdoor City Games: Explore, Compete, Connect

Turn the city into your playground! Our Outdoor City Games, like the Amsterdam City Hunt or Amazing Race, combine exploration, teamwork, and friendly competition. Teams navigate through iconic neighborhoods, solving clues and completing challenges that highlight local culture.

Why it works:

  • Customizable for any group size (up to 5,000 participants)
  • Blends physical activity with brain teasers
  • Promotes collaboration and local discovery

City games are especially popular for international teams visiting Amsterdam, offering a fun way to bond and experience the city together.

4. Innovation Challenges: Real Solutions, Real Impact

Move beyond traditional games with Innovation Challenges — structured workshops where teams tackle real business problems or brainstorm new ideas. Facilitated by experts, these sessions drive creativity and practical collaboration.

Features:

  • Aligns with company goals
  • Encourages cross-departmental teamwork
  • Delivers actionable outcomes

According to Harvard Business Review, innovation-focused activities are among the most effective for boosting engagement and delivering long-term value.

5. Cocktail Workshops & Culinary Experiences

Food and drink bring people together! Our cocktail workshops and BBQ parties with live entertainment are perfect for large groups seeking a relaxed, social atmosphere. Participants learn new skills, compete in mixology challenges, and enjoy delicious creations.

Why clients love it:

  • Interactive and inclusive
  • Great for networking and celebration
  • Customizable menus and entertainment

Culinary experiences are consistently rated among the top team-building activities for boosting morale and fostering informal connections (EventMB).

6. Sustainability-Focused Retreats

With growing emphasis on corporate social responsibility, eco-friendly team building is on the rise. Activities like tree planting, clean-up challenges, and upcycling workshops not only build teamwork but also reinforce your organization’s commitment to the environment.

Benefits:

  • Positive social impact
  • Promotes shared values
  • Memorable, feel-good experiences

Dutch government guidelines encourage companies to integrate sustainability into corporate events (Rijksoverheid) — making this a timely and meaningful choice.

7. Customizable Mega Events: Tailored for Your Team

At UP Events, we specialize in fully customized large group events — whether it’s a product launch, anniversary, or annual company day. With our 45,000 m² venue in Amsterdam West and flexible location in Weesp, we can host up to 5,000 participants with seamless coordination of activities, catering, and entertainment.

What sets us apart:

  • One-stop solution: Activities, food, music, and decor all managed in-house.
  • Personalized planning: Every detail tailored to your goals and preferences.
  • Proven expertise: Over 15 years of experience and a 4.8 Google review score.

Best Practices for Large Group Team Building

Drawing from industry research and our own experience, here’s how to maximize the impact of your next event:

  • Start with clear objectives: Define what you want to achieve — better communication, innovation, or simply fun.
  • Choose inclusive activities: Ensure everyone can participate, regardless of ability or background.
  • Invest in professional facilitation: Smooth logistics and expert hosts make all the difference for large groups.
  • Measure success: Use pre- and post-event surveys, feedback sessions, and performance metrics to track outcomes.

Success Stories: Real Impact, Lasting Connections

One of our recent clients, a multinational tech company, brought 1,200 employees to our Amsterdam West venue for a hybrid event combining VR challenges, outdoor games, and a BBQ party. The result? “Our team left feeling energized, connected, and inspired. The seamless organization and creative activities exceeded all expectations,” shared their HR manager.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the ideal group size for large team building activities? We specialize in events for groups from 15 up to 5,000 participants. Activities can be scaled and customized to fit your team’s needs.

How do you ensure inclusivity in large group events? All our activities are designed with accessibility in mind. We offer a range of options to suit different abilities and backgrounds, and our team works closely with clients to accommodate specific requirements.

Can you organize events at our company location? Absolutely! While our main venues are in Amsterdam West and Weesp, we can also deliver customized experiences at your preferred location.

How do you measure the effectiveness of team building? We recommend using surveys, feedback forms, and performance metrics before and after the event to assess improvements in communication, morale, and collaboration.

What makes UP Events different from other event organizers? Our full-service approach, large-scale capacity, and focus on experience and connection set us apart. With over 15 years of expertise and a passion for creating memorable moments, we’re dedicated to making every event a success.

Ready to Elevate Your Next Event?

Discover how UP Events can help you create unforgettable large group team building activities in 2025. From innovative challenges to seamless event management, we’re here to turn your vision into reality. Contact us for a personalized quote or consultation.

References & Further Reading: