6 After-Work Activities that Don’t Involve Booze

When your coworkers are looking to unwind after work, chances are the default option is happy hour at the local watering hole. While this is a great choice for a little after-hours camaraderie, you may want to also consider organizing activities that are healthier and more inclusive for those coworkers who don’t drink. Here are a few alternatives to happy hour that don’t necessarily involve booze.

1. Bowling

Whether your employees can knock down strikes like the pros or need the guard rails up, bowling provides a fun opportunity for a little physical activity, conversation between turns, and a lot of laughs. You can showcase clever office nicknames on the screen and make some friendly wagers between departments.

2. Volunteering

Who says team bonding and helping the community don’t mix? Volunteering is a great way to get out of the office, try something new, and make a difference in the lives of others. Some ways to make an impact include a neighborhood cleanup, serving meals or coffee to the homeless, hosting a food drive, or partnering with a nonprofit like Habitat for Humanity for a day of service.

3. Karaoke

Depending how well your coworkers can sing will determine if this is a booze-free activity or not. Karaoke is an entertaining way to help your coworkers loosen up, break out of their shells, and have a guaranteed fun time. Plus, you never know who in the office will surprise you with a killer voice.

4. Movie night

Watching a movie is always a solid option to help employees unwind from the stresses of work. You can head to the nearest theater or put up a projector right in your office (people might get just as excited as they did for ‘movie day’ in elementary school).

5. Concert

Watching live music can be exhilarating, powerful, and provide a bonding experience. Whether it’s jazz, rock, blues, folk, or classical, there’s bound to be a concert nearby that your coworkers can experience together. As an alternative, you can hire a musician to perform right in the office.

6. Art class

Taking an art or photography class will give employees the chance to explore their creativity and let their imaginations run wild. As an added bonus, you can use these creations to help decorate the office.

Even though happy hour is often the most convenient and popular after-work option, there are other great activities to help your coworkers blow off steam, relax, and get to know each other better — minus the hangover.