When the temperatures drop, it's easy for team energy to go into hibernation mode.
But winter presents a unique opportunity to foster creativity, collaboration, and connection.
Whether your goal is to build camaraderie or ignite fresh ideas, we have asked a few of our partners to share some team-building activities designed to do more than break the ice- they'll leave lasting impressions.
Let's see what they had to say.
Winter Team Building Ideas
Creating a Space for Authentic Connections
Andrew Spofford, Hurricane Island Outward Bound
Challenge
Work distractions and rigid cultures can stifle open communication. Without psychological safety, innovation thinking can't flourish.
Solution
Provide a retreat where team members feel valued and heard.
Here's how:
Andrew highlights the importance of creating "a space where people can be psychologically safe to come as they are, to communicate with and to get to know each other authentically."
That's exactly what Edith Macy Center provides- just an hour from Manhattan but a world away in atmosphere.
Recently, the center worked with an organization undergoing a cultural shift.
After decades of top-down leadership, the incoming CEO sough to rebuild trust and encourage open feedback. "We helped reinforce that the best ideas don't always come from the CEO's office," says Spofford
Takeaway
Retreats aren’t just about getting away; they’re about re-centering your team and creating space for real conversations.
Ice Carving: The Art of Teamwork
Will Leggett, UnitedEVENTures
Challenge
Team dynamics can feel as rigid as a block of ice. Add creative pressure, and cracks might show.
Solution
Transform that tension into triumph with an ice carving activity that fuses fun with teamwork.
Here's how:
Participants start with a solid block of ice measuring two feet by two feet.
As faciitator Will Leggett explains, "We bring an artist, and that artist will help each group member learn how to carve."
Equipped with carving tools, a whiteboard for brainstorming, and design criteria tailored to your event's theme-be it a winter wonderland or a logo-driven masterpiece-teams collaborate to bring their ideas to life.
The experince doesn't end with carving. The creations are showcased at a dinner celebration, where they're admired and voted on.
The twist?
Teams can't vote for their own designs. "It's up to you to decide what you want to create for that criteria" says Leggett, emphasizing the value of planning and execution.
Takeaway
Ice carving highlights the importance of stratgy, creativity, and shared success- skills that melt silos back in the workplace.
Battle of the Stars: A Game Show with Heart
Cindy Crean, True North Teambuilding
Challenge
Remote or global teams often lack meaningful interaction. When bonds are weak, productivity and morale falter.
Solution
Energize your group with a high-energy competition that appeals to everyone.
Here’s how:
"Battle of the stars is basically a game show," explains Cindy. "It's team-based, and every round is different type of game." Whether participanys excel at trivia or avoid it like a bad pun, there's something for everyone in this dynamic format.
This event goes beyond fun. It's designed to foster networking and create a shared experince that continues after the game end.
It's an ideal way to connect and build rapport for dispersed teams or those working across borders. "After the fact, people have a common bond of participating in a really high- energy event," adds Crean..
Takeaway
From trivia buffs to introverts, this inclusive activity builds bridges across teams and geographies.
Why Winter is the Perfect Time for Team Building
Winter may not seem like the obvious choice for offsite events, but the season's challenges create opportunities.
The crisp air clears minds, while indoor activities allow for focused bonding. Whether you're carving ice, competing in a game show, or stepping away for authentic conversations, these events turn cold days into warm memories.
Break the ice with purpose.
Your team's next big idea-or breakthrough connection- might just be waiting in a block of ice or a round of trivia
Have questions? Let’s connect >>
