Online events are a powerful way to boost team morale, strengthen connections, increase team productivity, and just have a fun time together. But how to plan a virtual networking event for remote teams? As a successful virtual activities provider, we understand that this process can feel challenging with different locations, schedules, and time zones. 

Our method is to follow a clear structure. Define the purpose of your event, choose the right type of virtual experience, select a suitable date and time, and ensure interactivity and smooth technical setup.

In this guide, we’ll share the proven steps to help with planning a virtual event that is smooth, engaging, and impactful for your remote team.

The rise of virtual events and the benefits they bring to companies

Remote work has become part of everyday life. However, team members want connection and want to feel seen and valued, and they also need meaningful pauses in the workday. Modern companies are looking for flexible and effective ways to bring people together, and trust us, virtual events are one of the best solutions. In the following sections, we’ll explore how to plan a successful virtual event. 

Online events make global connections easy
In virtual environments, teams can connect with colleagues and clients across different cities, countries, and time zones. 

With a virtual event, you give access to unique experiences
Your teams can take part in creative digital workshops and activities they might not normally have access to in person.

Online events provide greater accessibility and inclusivity
Virtual formats make it easier for everyone to join, regardless of location, mobility, skills, or schedule.

Virtual events are quick and easy to organise
You don’t need to care about logistics. Virtual events can be planned and delivered much faster than in-person experiences.

Virtual experiences are a more sustainable choice
You remove the need for travel, and in such a way, reduce carbon footprint as an environmentally conscious business.

employees participating in a virtual event

How to plan a successful virtual event: Your checklist

At Avva Experience, we’ve prepared the ultimate checklist so you can plan your virtual event with confidence…

…or just leave it to us, and we’ll handle everything flawlessly.

Start strong: Define goals and your audience

So, how to plan a virtual business event or team building event? Before choosing online activities or setting a date, we start with understanding what you want to achieve and who the event is for. Do you want to boost engagement, strengthen team connections, celebrate a company’s milestone, or create a learning experience? 

Consider your audience: who will be attending, how many team members will join, and what kind of virtual experience will resonate most with them.

If you’re looking to bring remote employees closer together, organise virtual employee recognition or employee onboarding, clear goals will help shape the entire experience.

Team smiling during a virtual meeting

Choose the right virtual activity provider

The choice of virtual activity provider can make a huge difference in how successful your digital event feels. 

Instead of planning online activities yourself, you can trust experienced event organisers. Event providers like Avva Experience take care of everything, from hosting and facilitation to professional event management throughout the session. This means less pressure on your internal team and a more seamless experience for participants. 

Design the flow: Consider timing and add interactive elements

Another important element of a successful virtual event is a clear and well-paced agenda.

Start with a short welcome, followed by the main activity. Allow space for interaction, short breaks, or informal moments. Virtual experiences work best when they are concise, ideally around 45–60 minutes, to keep focus and energy high.

It’s also important to include interactive elements from the very beginning of virtual event planning. Rather than long presentations, focus on participation. With an experienced host or facilitator who keeps the session dynamic and engaging, everything runs at the highest level.

Get your team ready for virtual adventures

Share clear invitations through calendars, internal platforms like Slack or Teams. Send reminders about the event closer to the date. It’s also a good practice when planning a virtual event to prepare attendees in advance by sharing a simple overview of the event. For larger groups, attach a short FAQ or event page to the invitation to make everything feel more organised and accessible.

employees connected in a team building activity

Keep your attendees engaged online

This is one of the biggest challenges of virtual events. To keep teams engaged, we recommend starting with a quick icebreaker, using live polls or chat to encourage participation, and introducing light gamification such as quizzes or mini-games. You can also create moments of surprise, such as gifts or interaction, throughout the digital session. Breakout rooms can also help smaller groups connect more naturally.

Rehearse and host your event with confidence

Want your virtual event to run smoothly? Test your setup 24-48 hours before the event. Check audio, video, screen sharing, as well as your event management software features, and interactive elements like breakout rooms. On the day, assign clear roles, such as host, facilitator, and chat support. 

Without energy and clear guidance, virtual events simply don’t work as well as they should. That’s why at Avva Experience, our expert hosts ensure every session stays dynamic, engaging, and full of energy.

Laptop on desk during office tech setup

Measure event success and follow up

These are important steps to plan a virtual event, and to discover what went well and what could have been better. What to focus on:

  • Attendance rate
  • Engagement levels (polls, chat activity, participation)
  • NPS (Net Promoter Score) and post-event survey results
  • Feedback from participants

After the event, follow up by sharing a recap, sending recordings if relevant, and collecting feedback. This not only helps you improve future events but also keeps the momentum going after the session.

One of the biggest advantages of virtual events is the data they provide. Compared to in-person experiences, you have access to richer insights. Make sure to use them to refine and enhance your next event.

Types of virtual events for remote teams

At Avva Experience, we know how to plan a virtual team building event that will keep your team engaged from start to finish.

Our team offers a wide range of virtual events designed to bring teams together, no matter where they are in the world. In the video below, we explore 9 of our most popular virtual team-building experiences. These activities are carefully chosen for remote teams to improve connection, boost engagement, and strengthen collaboration in a fun and meaningful way.

In general, our virtual experiences fall into two main categories.

Virtual experiences without delivery

Teams take part in interactive activities such as games, quizzes, workshops, and many creative challenges. No physical materials are required for virtual event planning. These online experiences are quick and easy to organiіe. 

Virtual Music & Trivia Bingo Bonanza
A fast-paced virtual bingo experience. This online event blends music, trivia, and movie-based challenges into an interactive game. We created this activity to energise teams, encourage friendly competition, and provide moments of fun and nostalgia.

A Guided Virtual Breathwork Class to Reset & Recharge
A calming and restorative online session led by an expert facilitator. Team members are guided through simple, science-backed breathing techniques and learn how to reduce stress, improve focus, and reset both mind and body. For this online activity, no equipment is required. Participants need a chair and a quiet space.

Get To Know Your Team Virtual Icebreaker Challenge
An engaging virtual game show that will break the ice and strengthen team connections. Through interactive rounds, storytelling, and live host-led activities, your colleagues discover new things about each other in a relaxed and entertaining environment. Time to get to know each other better!

Virtual Murder Mystery Team Challenge
This is a favourite online adventure of our clients. Join our live-hosted interactive mystery challenge where teams solve clues, investigate a case, and compete to become the ultimate detectives.

The Heist! Virtual Escape Room
A story-driven virtual escape room where teams collaborate to solve puzzles and complete challenges in order to recover a stolen painting. The experience blends logic, teamwork, and immersive storytelling in a fast-paced format.

The Great Train Mystery
A cinematic virtual team murder mystery set on a train. Decode clues and find the culprit aboard the “Silver Express” before the train reaches its final destination.

The Great Train Mystery virtual event

Time Travelling Virtual Game Show
A high-energy online show where teams travel through different eras and compete in fast-paced interactive rounds. Below you can see a video of how teams enjoy this online experience.

LEGO Team Building Virtual Workshop
A creative and collaborative team-building event featuring guided LEGO challenges. Designed to improve communication, strengthen relationships, and encourage teamwork through structured and playful activities.

LEGO figures spelling teamwork

Virtual Cocktail Making Class
Feel like things have become a bit routine lately? This online show is just what you need. Try our live mixology experience where participants will enjoy cocktails and learn to create them step-by-step with an expert host.

Around the World in 60 Minutes
This is a global adventure game, full of trivia, puzzles, and fun. Travel across six continents with interactive challenges at each stop, and learn fascinating facts about different global regions and cultures.

Conquer The Mountain! A Digital Team Building Adventure
A high-energy immersive team challenge that feels like an escape room with a competitive mountain-climbing storyline. 

Guided by a live mountaineer host, teams must work together to overcome obstacles, solve challenges, and reach the summit of the fictional “Mount Dread.” Test logic, communication, and collaboration in a fun and engaging format.

Sherlock Holmes & The Lost Ruby: Online Team Building Challenge
A popular detective-style team experience set in Victorian London. Guided by Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson, teams will analyse clues, solve puzzles, and uncover the mystery of the stolen ruby. The experience blends storytelling, problem-solving, and collaboration in a highly interactive format.

Sherlock Holmes with The Lost Ruby

Virtual experiences with delivery

These online events with delivery include physical kits. With us, virtual event planning is seamless. We deliver everything needed in advance, so teams can enjoy a fully hands-on experience from their own homes.

The Virtual Pottery Pictionary Team Showdown
A creative and interactive team experience combining clay modelling with a fun Pictionary-style game format. 

Guided by a live host, participants take part in multiple rounds, from light-hearted icebreakers to competitive team challenges where they sculpt objects in clay for others to guess. This activity encourages creativity, collaboration, and plenty of laughter, with points awarded throughout to crown a winning team. Colour clay kits are delivered in advance, making the experience fully hands-on with no mess.

The Virtual Cocktail Making TV Game Show Party
A unique hybrid experience that combines a cocktail-making masterclass with interactive game show rounds. Led by a professional mixologist and host, participants create delicious cocktails while taking part in engaging games such as The Feud and Who Wants To Be A Millionaire. 

The format blends social interaction, entertainment, and hands-on activity, making it ideal for team socials and celebrations. Cocktail kits can be delivered internationally for a seamless experience. 

An Exceptional Customisable Digital Wine Tasting
An interactive and refined virtual wine tasting led by a professional sommelier. Guests are guided through curated wine selections while learning tasting techniques, flavour profiles, and pairing insights. 

The session includes live discussion, Q&A, and the option to customise the tasting menu, with add-ons such as cheese or chocolate pairings. Wine kits are delivered ahead of the event, creating a premium and engaging experience for both beginners and enthusiasts.

Camp Avva: Virtual Campfire Team Building Experience
A nostalgic, cozy, and high-energy team building experience inspired by classic summer camp. Hosted by a live “Camp Chief,” teams take part in interactive mini-games, breakout challenges, and playful competitions. Activities are designed to spark connection, creativity, and laughter, while optional s’mores kits add a hands-on element to the experience. Ideal for building team spirit in a relaxed and memorable setting.

Camp Avva virtual experience with summer vibe

Melt & Sip: A Virtual Hot Chocolate Bomb Making Class
A cosy virtual workshop where participants learn to create their own hot chocolate bombs step-by-step. 

Led by an expert host, the session is relaxed, interactive, and suitable for all skill levels. Ingredient kits can be delivered in advance, allowing teams to enjoy a hands-on, seasonal experience that’s perfect for socials, celebrations, or wellness-focused events.

Make & Mangia: A Hands-On Virtual Pasta Making Class
A fully interactive cooking experience where participants learn to make fresh pasta from scratch. Guided by a live instructor, guests are taken through mixing, kneading, shaping, and cooking, creating a delicious homemade dish. 

Hands-On Virtual Pasta Making Class

The session combines learning, creativity, and social interaction in a warm and engaging atmosphere. Ingredient kits can be delivered, making it a seamless hands-on experience.

A Superb Virtual Wine & Cheese Tasting
A premium tasting experience exploring the pairing of fine wines and artisan cheeses. Hosted by a wine expert, participants learn how flavours complement each other while enjoying a curated selection. 

This online event is interactive and educational, with tasting kits delivered ahead of time, making it ideal for client events, team socials, or celebrations.

Superb Virtual Wine & Cheese Tasting

A Virtual Global Chocolate Tasting Tour
A truly immersive chocolate tasting event led by an expert chocolatier. Explore the world of chocolate history for over 500 years, sample a selection of different craft chocolates, from 100% pure to ruby chocolate. Enjoy storytelling and discover fascinating facts about the unique flavours of chocolate.

Each guest will receive a beautifully-packed tasting kit which has been put together to create a “tasting book” style experience. This will enhance the overall journey and ultimately provide each participant with a true hands-on experience that will be a lasting memory.

An Interactive Online Canvas Painting Workshop
A creative and social virtual art experience where participants are guided step-by-step by a professional instructor. With painting kits delivered in advance and a wide range of artwork styles to choose from, teams can relax, connect, and express their creativity.

Virtual Paint and Sip Party for Teams
A creative and social virtual art experience where participants are guided step-by-step by a professional instructor. You’ll explore your artistic side. while enjoying favourite drinks in a fun, relaxed, and casual atmosphere.

An Indulgent Virtual Chocolate Truffle Making Class
Create your own chocolate truffles under the guidance of an expert host. This digital event is interactive, relaxed, and suitable for all skill levels, combining creativity with indulgence. You don’t need to stress about virtual event planning. Ingredient kits will be delivered in advance.

Online succulent terrarium workshop
A calming and creative workshop where participants build their own succulent terrarium. Guided step-by-step by an expert, the session encourages relaxation, creativity, and connection. 

All materials are delivered in advance, allowing for a fully hands-on experience suitable for both beginners and experienced plant lovers.

client feedback on Avva’s activities

Client feedback: Avva Experience is a clear favorite

Not sure how to plan a virtual team building event? You can always turn to our team of event experts. 

On our Case Studies page, you can see how global companies speak about Avva Experience.  We bring their teams together through virtual events tailored to their goals, from team building to celebrations and product launches, and reviews confirm the positive impact.

StackAdapt, a global software company, runs regular virtual engagement events with us. Typically, they choose game shows, bingo, and interactive parties, relying on our experts when it comes to planning a virtual event. The feedback from StackAdapt highlights high-energy hosts and consistently engaging experiences.

Feedback on planning a virtual event

Another company, Dell, hosted a virtual celebration for over 1,000 employees using our Virtual Mini Game Extravaganza. The format was ideal for a large global audience and was a great success.

Alcon celebrated a product launch with a custom virtual cocktail masterclass, including branded kits delivered internationally and a tailored awards segment. The event received an “Excellent” rating for its execution and attention to detail.

We are happy every time we see the positive impact our experiences have on teams and the way they bring people together. 

Final thoughts

At Avva Experience, we know that hosting a virtual event can (and should!) be seamless and engaging, without headaches or all the back-and-forth. We’ll help you choose the best event to match your goals. Are you looking to encourage open communication, develop leadership skills, or simply enjoy fun times with cocktails and music?

Whatever your goal, we have the perfect event for you.

You just need to book your event in advance (at least 1 week before the event without delivery, and 2-3 weeks in advance with delivery), and we’ll take care of everything else.

Ready to plan your next digital adventure, but not sure how to plan a virtual event effectively?

Contact us and let’s create an unforgettable experience for your team.

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