22 ideas for your next virtual or hybrid event
These days, connecting virtually is easier, smoother, and more engaging than ever before. Thanks to new technologies and event platforms, businesses of all sizes can explore virtual event ideas that help maintain strong relationships with colleagues, clients, and communities when they can’t be together in person. Whether you’re looking for ideas for virtual events to strengthen team culture, expand professional networks, raise funds for a meaningful cause, or simply connect with loved ones across the miles, there are plenty of options to explore.
And of course, every great event starts with the right invitation and tools. With Paperless Post, you can set the tone for your gathering, manage RSVPs seamlessly, and keep everyone connected from the very beginning—whether it’s for a casual team happy hour, a polished corporate conference, or a family trivia night. If you’re planning to host more than one virtual (or in-person!) event this year, consider subscribing to Paperless Pro, which will give you unlimited access to all of our premium, convenient planning tools and invitations at one yearly cost.
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Benefits of virtual and hybrid events
Choosing the right virtual business event idea isn’t just about filling calendars—it’s about creating meaningful experiences that support company goals and foster genuine connections. Whether you’re planning a small internal activity or a large professional conference, here’s why virtual and hybrid event ideas are worth considering:
- Accessibility: Guests can join from anywhere in the world, making it easy to include remote employees, international clients, or family members who live far away.
- Cost savings: Hosting virtually or in a hybrid format helps lower venue, travel, and catering costs, freeing up budget for other priorities.
- Flexibility: Events can be adapted for different time zones, audience sizes, or formats, allowing you to create the right experience for your unique group.
- Scalability: From intimate gatherings of five people to global conferences with thousands of attendees, virtual tools scale to meet your needs.
- Sustainability: By reducing travel and printed materials, virtual events minimize environmental impact.
- Inclusivity: People with mobility, health, or scheduling challenges can participate more easily when travel isn’t required.
- Engagement: Interactive features—like live polls, breakout rooms, chat functions, and gamification—boost participation and serve as virtual event engagement ideas that keep audiences involved.
- Data-driven insights: Many virtual event platforms offer analytics, giving organizers valuable feedback on attendance, engagement levels, and session popularity.
Virtual team building ideas
For businesses with remote or hybrid workforces, virtual team building ideas help colleagues connect beyond meetings and Slack threads. These virtual event ideas strengthen relationships, foster collaboration, and create moments of fun. Consider adding a Links Block to your event invitation page with the video conferencing link so guests have easy access when it’s time to log on.
1. Virtual happy hour
Send employees a gift card for their beverage of choice and gather on a video call for casual conversation. Add a theme—like cocktails from around the world, favorite local beers, or non-alcoholic mocktails—for extra fun. Incorporate interactive activities, like trivia rounds or icebreaker questions, to keep conversation flowing.
2. Two truths and a lie
This is a simple icebreaker where participants share two facts and one lie about themselves. Colleagues then guess which statement is the lie. It’s an easy way to spark laughs and learn new things about each other. To make it more engaging, you can offer small prizes for the best bluffers or most surprising truths.
3. Shout-out session
Dedicate time for employees to give kudos and shout-outs to colleagues. Recognition builds morale, boosts engagement, and helps employees feel valued. Consider scheduling this at the end of the week or quarter to highlight accomplishments and end the period on a positive note.
4. Virtual pet show and tell
Your coworkers have likely heard all about your pet—or at the very least have seen a picture—so why not introduce them virtually? Invite team members to show off their furry (or scaly) friends on camera. Encourage fun prompts, like sharing each pet’s “superpower” or funniest habit.
5. Virtual charades
Split into teams and use an online charades generator to get prompts. This lighthearted competition encourages creativity and keeps energy high.
Virtual networking event ideas
Networking has gone digital, but that doesn’t mean it has to feel transactional or impersonal. With the right tools and structure, virtual networking event ideas can replicate much of the spontaneity and connection of in-person gatherings. From large-scale panels to intimate chats, these events create space for meaningful introductions, knowledge-sharing, and long-term professional relationships that can support career and business growth.
6. Virtual sales kickoff
A sales kickoff is a high-energy virtual business event idea, and it’s the perfect way to align teams at the start of a quarter or year. Host a livestream event that mixes recognition, goal-setting, and team bonding. Incorporate motivational guest speakers (which you can note in a Speakers Block on your invitation’s event page), interactive breakout sessions, and live polls to keep engagement levels high. To ensure everyone is on the same page, include a Schedule Block on your invitation event page outlining times and topics for the kickoff.
7. Virtual mix and mingle
Think of this as speed dating, but in a digital and professional format. Organizers can schedule short breakout sessions where small groups or pairs rotate every few minutes, ensuring participants meet several new people in one event. Provide conversation prompts or themes to encourage authentic connections rather than surface-level introductions. These types of virtual networking event ideas are especially effective for groups looking to foster collaboration across companies or departments.
8. Virtual one-on-one coffee dates
For more personal relationship building, host a round of one-on-one virtual coffee chats. Participants can be matched randomly or by shared interests, and each meeting can be quick and last around 30 minutes. These sessions are ideal for nurturing deeper professional connections, creating mentoring opportunities, and building stronger internal networks within a company.
9. Virtual panel discussions
Panel discussions translate well online and provide an opportunity for thought leadership. Gather industry experts, executives, or community leaders to share insights on a topic relevant to your business. Encourage audience participation through Q&A segments, interactive chat features, or polls. Recording the event also allows you to share it with all invited guests later through a broadcast message. If any corporate sponsors are helping host your event, add them to a Sponsors Block on your event page to ensure they get recognition.
Virtual fundraising ideas
Raising money for a cause doesn’t have to happen in person. Virtual formats allow organizations to expand reach, engage new audiences, and make giving convenient and interactive. These virtual fundraising event ideas can help you create memorable experiences while supporting your mission and encouraging participation from donors anywhere in the world.
10. Virtual concert
Host a live-streamed performance featuring local or well-known artists to attract attendees. Sell tickets or accept donations during the concert, and incorporate interactive elements like shout-outs or a live Q&A with the performers. This type of virtual event idea combines entertainment with fundraising, creating a unique experience that draws attention and contributions.
11. Virtual silent auction
Use an online platform to auction donated items or experiences. Participants can bid in real-time, with a scheduled closing time to build excitement. Livestreaming the final moments allows for engagement and friendly competition, making this one of the most effective ideas for virtual events that raise funds remotely. To encourage maximum participation, create a shareable invitation link so it’s easy for anyone to learn about and get access to your event.
12. Virtual or online raffle
Sell digital raffle tickets and host a live drawing online. Offer multiple prize levels or themed packages to encourage more participation. Adding a live element, like a host announcing winners via video, makes the experience engaging and builds anticipation, turning a simple raffle into a memorable virtual fundraising event.
13. Virtual fundraising workshop
Tap into your team’s expertise by hosting a paid virtual workshop. Whether it’s cooking, design, or professional skills, participants pay an entry fee, and proceeds go directly to your cause. Include interactive elements like Q&A sessions, group exercises, or downloadable resources to make this event both educational and impactful.
Fun virtual event ideas
Virtual events aren’t just for work—they’re also a fantastic way for friends and family to connect across distances. These ideas for virtual events are designed to be engaging, social, and easy to set up, providing fun shared experiences no matter where participants are located.
14. Virtual trivia
Channel your inner game show host with a virtual trivia event. Divide participants into teams or play individually, and include multiple themed rounds like pop culture, history, or movies. Offer prizes like digital gift cards to keep energy and competition high.
15. Virtual gift exchange
Gift exchanges like Secret Santa, favorite things, and white elephant can absolutely be done virtually. Use a website like Draw Names to assign participants their giftees, and have everyone mail gifts ahead of the event. During the live video call, each person can unwrap their present and try to guess who gave them their gift.
16. Virtual yoga or exercise class
Bring wellness into your group with a virtual yoga, Pilates, or Zumba class. Hire a certified instructor to lead participants through exercises suitable for all skill levels. This type of virtual event idea encourages healthy habits while offering an energizing way for friends, family, or coworkers to connect remotely.
17. Virtual cooking class
Host a virtual cooking class led by a professional chef. Participants follow along from their own kitchens to prepare recipes such as pasta dishes, cocktails, or dessert. Share ingredient lists ahead of time within a Details Block on your invitation event page, and encourage interaction via Q&A or live taste-testing moments.
18. Virtual book club
Invite book club participants to read a selected book and join a virtual discussion. Incorporate themed snacks, drinks, or icebreaker questions to enhance conversation and engagement. Rotating hosts or books keeps the club dynamic, making this one of the most social and interactive ideas for virtual events with friends or family.
Hybrid event ideas
Hybrid events combine the best of in-person and virtual gatherings, giving attendees the flexibility to participate from wherever they are. These hybrid event ideas work well for modern workplaces, professional conferences, and team celebrations, allowing everyone to feel included and engaged regardless of location.
19. Fireside chat
Host an expert, whether they’re from your company or an outside guest, in a cozy in-office setting while streaming the session live for remote participants. Encourage audience questions from both virtual and in-person attendees. Afterward, upload the recording and share a link via a broadcast message so anyone who missed it can watch.
20. Hybrid awards ceremony
Celebrate team achievements by hosting an awards event in the office with live-stream access for remote colleagues. Consider mailing trophies, certificates, or small gifts to virtual attendees so they feel included. Incorporate slideshows, highlight reels, and live announcements to engage all participants.
21. Hybrid team lunch
Cater or order meals for those in the office and send digital gift cards or meal credits to remote attendees. Then have everyone enjoy lunch together while connecting over video, and add icebreaker questions to encourage dialogue. This type of hybrid event idea fosters a sense of community and keeps remote employees engaged with those in the office.
22. Hybrid brainstorming session
Facilitate collaborative idea generation by combining in-person and virtual participants in real time. Use digital whiteboards, polling tools, or collaborative documents so everyone can contribute equally, then break into smaller teams for focused discussions and regroup to share insights.
Bring your virtual business event ideas to life with Paperless Pro
No matter what type of gathering you’re planning—whether it’s a team-building exercise, a professional networking event, a fundraiser, or a fun family get-together—Paperless Post makes organizing seamless. Choose from beautifully designed digital invitations that reflect your company’s style, send them in minutes, and track RSVPs with ease. And by subscribing to Paperless Pro, you get access to all of our premium features, designs, and tools for one annual price.
With intuitive guest management tools and best-in-class designs, we’re here to help you bring your virtual business event ideas to life—so you can focus on creating connections that matter.
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