Planning a memorable and engaging team event doesn’t have to break the bank. With a budget of around $150 per person, you can organize unique, fun, and meaningful activities that strengthen team bonds, improve communication, and provide an opportunity for team members to unwind. Whether you’re looking for a professional development workshop, team-building exercises, or just a fun social gathering, there are many ways to create a valuable experience while staying within your budget.

In this blog post, we’ll explore a variety of in-person team event ideas that fit a $150 per person budget, ensuring that your team has a fantastic time without going over the top.

1. DIY Team Building Challenges

Team-building activities are a great way to promote collaboration, problem-solving, and creative thinking. You don’t need an expensive venue or facilitator to make them impactful. Here are a few DIY team-building ideas that can be organized for less than $150 per person:

Escape Room Challenge

• Cost: Around $30–$50 per person, depending on location and group size.
• Description: Escape rooms are an exciting way for teams to work together under pressure to solve puzzles and escape within a set time. Many escape room companies offer private bookings, and the experience fosters teamwork, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Why it works: The immersive experience promotes collaboration and creative thinking, and teams are encouraged to rely on each other’s strengths.

Scavenger Hunt

• Cost: Free to $10 per person (if using an app or custom prizes).
• Description: Create a customized scavenger hunt based on your city or workplace. Teams can use clues, solve riddles, or complete fun challenges as they explore the area. You can incorporate company-related trivia, brand history, or fun activities that help teams bond.
• Why it works: Scavenger hunts are great for team bonding, encouraging communication and collaboration while keeping the energy high. Plus, they are adaptable for different locations and group sizes.

Minute to Win It Games

• Cost: $5–$15 per person for supplies.
• Description: Inspired by the popular TV show, Minute to Win It challenges are fast-paced, competitive games that test coordination, problem-solving, and creativity. Set up a series of challenges (e.g., stacking cups, moving cookies from forehead to mouth, etc.) and have teams compete against each other in a timed format.
• Why it works: These games are simple to set up, fun, and promote team bonding through friendly competition.

2. Outdoor Adventure Day

Taking your team outdoors offers an exciting change of pace and a chance to recharge in nature. You can organize an outdoor adventure that includes physical challenges, team collaboration, and relaxation—all without a hefty price tag.

Hiking or Nature Walk

• Cost: Free to $20 per person (for transportation or light refreshments).
• Description: Plan a day of hiking or nature walking in a nearby park or nature reserve. Team members can enjoy the fresh air, disconnect from work, and have meaningful conversations along the way. Consider incorporating team-building activities, like trivia, nature-themed challenges, or photo contests, to keep things engaging.
• Why it works: Outdoor activities are great for team bonding, and nature walks allow for conversations and reflections in a relaxed environment.

Field Day (With Classic Games)

• Cost: $10–$20 per person for supplies (think frisbees, cones, and picnic snacks).
• Description: Organize a team field day at a local park or beach with classic lawn games like three-legged races, tug-of-war, sack races, and relay races. You can also incorporate creative activities like a water balloon toss or frisbee golf. After the games, host a picnic with snacks and light refreshments.
• Why it works: This informal, fun event encourages teamwork and lighthearted competition, creating a relaxed atmosphere where everyone can enjoy the day.

Volunteer as a Team

• Cost: Free or minimal cost for supplies (e.g., lunch or transportation).
• Description: Organize a team volunteer day at a local charity or community organization. Whether it’s helping at a food bank, cleaning up a local park, or organizing donations, giving back to the community is a meaningful and bonding experience. Wrap up the day with a group meal or picnic.
• Why it works: Volunteering fosters a sense of purpose and togetherness, while also providing a chance for the team to reflect on shared values.

3. Creative Workshops and Classes

Learning something new together can be a great way to build team morale, stimulate creativity, and allow everyone to relax and unwind. Here are a few ideas that can fit within a $150 per person budget:

Cooking or Baking Class

• Cost: $50–$100 per person.
• Description: Many local cooking schools or chefs offer group cooking classes. Team members can work together to create a meal or dessert, and then enjoy the fruits of their labor afterward. Options include everything from making pizzas or sushi to creating gourmet desserts or local delicacies.
• Why it works: Cooking classes are hands-on, fun, and allow for team collaboration. Plus, everyone gets to enjoy a meal together at the end.

Paint and Sip Event

• Cost: $30–$60 per person.
• Description: Host a “paint and sip” session where team members can create their own artwork while enjoying drinks (whether alcoholic or non-alcoholic). Local art studios often provide guided painting sessions, or you can hire an instructor to lead a virtual class. Some places also offer mobile packages where the instructor comes to you.
• Why it works: Paint and sip events are relaxing and creative, allowing employees to express themselves in a low-pressure setting while socializing with colleagues.

DIY Craft Workshop

• Cost: $15–$30 per person.
• Description: Organize a creative craft session where team members can make something unique, such as pottery, macramé, or custom T-shirts. You can hire an instructor or buy materials in bulk to host a crafting afternoon at your office or a local studio.
• Why it works: Crafting fosters creativity and provides a tangible, personalized takeaway from the event, helping to solidify the memories created.

4. Team Outing with Food and Fun

Nothing brings people together like sharing a meal and engaging in some fun activities. Here are a few low-cost options that combine food and entertainment:

Picnic with Lawn Games

• Cost: $10–$20 per person for food and games.
• Description: Organize a picnic at a local park with a selection of sandwiches, snacks, and refreshing drinks. Bring along lawn games like cornhole, frisbee, or badminton, and set up a cozy space for team members to relax and enjoy each other’s company.
• Why it works: A relaxed setting with food and simple activities encourages informal bonding, conversation, and fun.

Karaoke Night

• Cost: $20–$50 per person (depending on location).
• Description: Rent a private karaoke room or visit a karaoke bar for a fun and entertaining evening. Team members can sing their hearts out, enjoy each other’s performances, and bond over laughter and music.
• Why it works: Karaoke breaks down barriers and helps people loosen up, encouraging team members to interact in a more playful, carefree way.

Trivia Night or Quiz Show

• Cost: $10–$20 per person (for food and prizes).
• Description: Organize a trivia night at a local venue or in your office space. Create custom trivia questions related to the team, company, or industry, and encourage friendly competition. Pair it with pizza, appetizers, or drinks to make it even more enjoyable.
• Why it works: Trivia is a fun and low-pressure way to engage the team and promote teamwork through collaborative problem-solving.

Conclusion

With a budget of $150 per person, you can organize a range of exciting, impactful, and fun team events that foster collaboration, communication, and connection. Whether you’re looking for a creative workshop, an outdoor adventure, or a friendly competition, there are countless ways to engage your team without going over budget. The key is to focus on activities that align with your team’s interests, encourage interaction, and, most importantly, create lasting memories together. By being thoughtful in your planning, you can ensure that your team event is a resounding success without breaking the bank.