[Company Annual Dinner Guide] Recommended Games, Common FAQs & Tips
A Company Annual Dinner (also called Year-End Dinner or Corporate Dinner) is one of the most important events of the year, usually held at the end of the year or beginning of the next. It's a time to review the past year's achievements, present awards to recognize outstanding employees, and thank everyone for their hard work throughout the year.
However, organizing a successful Company Annual Dinner is no easy task. From venue selection, budget management, program planning, decorations, logistics, manpower, to gifts—everything requires thorough preparation.
Many HR teams or event organizers often face issues like a disorganized agenda, low energy on the night, or games with poor participation. This guide shares professional planning tips for your Annual Dinner flow, plus 3 highly engaging game recommendations to liven up the atmosphere and help you create a perfect, memorable Company Annual Dinner!
What is a Company Annual Dinner? What's its significance?
As the name suggests, a Company Annual Dinner is the enterprise's once-a-year major internal gathering. It's not just about celebrating achievements—it's a key moment to express genuine appreciation and recognition to employees.
A well-executed Annual Dinner boosts team cohesion, strengthens employees' sense of belonging, encourages cross-departmental communication, breaks down office silos, and builds closer collaboration!
Company Annual Dinner Planning Guide
1) Pre-Event Preparation (Start 1–2 months in advance)
- Define the theme & concept: The decoration style should align with the company's image and culture. Popular themes include "Retro Nostalgia", "Futuristic Tech", or "Movie Night". A clear theme makes decoration cohesive and easier to execute.
- Budget allocation: Allocate resources wisely across venue rental, catering, entertainment/performances, decorations, and more.
- Venue suggestions: Consider capacity, stage setup, sound system quality, and accessibility (e.g., near MTR station).
- Date selection: Choose a date that suits most employees. Avoid major public holidays or peak busy periods. Send invitations early so colleagues can reserve the date.
2) Recommended Agenda for the Event Day
Keep the entire Annual Dinner within 2.5–3 hours for a tight, engaging pace. Here's a suggested flow for a corporate year-end dinner:
- Opening & Host Warm-up: The MC energizes the room, introduces the theme, and directs guests to the photo zone with fun props/frames for selfies. (≈15 mins)
- Management Speech: Keep speeches short to avoid cooling the mood. Focus on thanking and recognizing employees' efforts. (≈10–15 mins)
- Dining Time: Play upbeat background music so people can relax, enjoy the food, and chat with tablemates. (≈60–80 mins)
Tip: Insert light games during dinner (e.g., Two Truths and a Lie) for casual fun. - Performances or Interactive Games: The highlight! Use a large Bingo board for everyone to play together, or feature employee talent shows. (≈10–15 mins)
Tip: Choose high-participation Annual Dinner games so colleagues of all levels can join in. - Lucky Draw / Prize Segment: Everyone's favorite part! Draw prizes from small to grand, with management on stage to build excitement. (≈20–30 mins)
Tip: Use high-res printed oversized "giant cheques" or prize boards for great photo moments. - Closing Remarks & Group Photo: Senior leadership gives a brief thank-you, then everyone gathers in front of the main backdrop for a big group shot to end on a high note. (≈10 mins)
3) On-the-Day Execution Tips
Beyond planning, smooth on-site execution is crucial. Here are key suggestions:
- Streamline entry & seating: Place clear seat maps and directional signs at the entrance to the photo zone and tables. This reduces chaos and gives everyone a warm, thoughtful first impression.
- Build in buffer time: Allow 10–15 minutes of flex time for overruns in speeches or tech setup.
- Maintain energy flow: During transitions, the host should coordinate with backstage to use music or quick interactions—no dead air!
3 Popular Company Annual Dinner Game Recommendations
1) Two Truths and a Lie (Best Icebreaker)
- How to play: Before the event, ask department reps to write three statements about themselves (e.g., "I once won a marathon"). Two must be true, one false. During the game, the host reads them out, and the audience votes on which is the lie.
- Why it works: It helps colleagues learn fun facts about each other, sparks lively discussion, and is perfect for early evening or during dinner breaks.
- Must-have props: Handheld A/B voting paddles for more interactive voting.
2) Department Photo Battle (Creative Snapshot Challenge)
- How to play: Provide various shaped photo props/frames. Each department has a time limit to create the most creative, theme-fitting group photo. Everyone votes for the "Most Creative Department" winner.
- Why it works: Ignites friendly inter-department rivalry and team spirit. The hilarious photos become cherished memories of the Annual Dinner.
- Must-have props: Custom Foamboard or Selfie Frame Props to elevate photo quality and tie into the theme.
3) Classic Bingo Lucky Draw
- How to play: Distribute custom Bingo cards to everyone at the start. The host draws numbers randomly; first to complete a line (horizontal, vertical, diagonal) wins a prize.
- Why it works: Simple, inclusive (no need to go on stage), and gets everyone involved. Perfect for all ages and roles.
- Must-have props: Large onstage Bingo number board for easy visibility. Use BGreen™ Eco-Portable Backdrop or FoamJOINT™ PP Sticker Foamboard for oversized, professional-looking boards that keep the crowd synced and excited!
Bannershop 5 Recommended Printing Products for Company Annual Dinner
To ensure a smooth, surprising Annual Dinner, high-quality printed materials are essential! They beautify the venue, boost atmosphere, enhance interaction, and help reinforce your brand. If you're planning a Company Annual Dinner and want standout decorations, check out these 5 Bannershop must-haves to create an unforgettable event!
The stage backdrop is the visual centerpiece! A premium backdrop adds wow factor under flashing lights. BGreen™ Eco-Portable Backdrop is designed for corporate events—made from recyclable 15mm honeycomb board that's lightweight yet sturdy. It's eco-friendly (naturally degradable) so your celebration can also support sustainability!
Key features:
- Naturally degradable material — environmentally responsible
- Honeycomb structure: strong, lightweight, no warping
- Tool-free easy assembly
- Add water bags at the back for extra stability
Note: Available in foldable (cheaper shipping, but with crease) or non-foldable (smooth, professional, larger shipping).
For ultimate photo quality, Fabric Media Wall is ideal! UV printing delivers vivid, 3D-like colors, and the fabric material eliminates flash glare issues common with traditional backdrops. Perfect for large displays of your theme—indoor banquet or outdoor terrace.
Key features:
- Full large-format printing for bold messaging
- UV printing: strong depth, vibrant colors
- Water-resistant — great for outdoor
- Tool-free setup
Games and lucky draws are the night's climax! Custom props like giant cheques, lucky draw boxes, or huge Bingo boards boost excitement. FoamJOINT™ PP Sticker Foamboard is lightweight, rigid, and its joinery tech hides seams for seamless large displays.
Key features:
- High-quality printing: vivid, fade-resistant
- Black/white + 5mm/10mm thickness options
- High hardness, shock-absorbing, corrosion-resistant
- Versatile for backdrops, game props, stage setups
Create a grand entrance vibe with PVC Media Wall at reception—perfect first photo spot. Bright colors showcase your annual logo/theme. Also called "spider frame" for its grid structure—stable when open, compact when stored.
Key features:
- Matte/glossy + gray backing options
- Straight or curved designs
- Tool-free, eco-friendly, reusable
- Short lead time (as fast as 3 working days)
Have everyone sign messages on a Canvas for lasting memories. Printed on high-quality canvas with natural texture, soft colors, waterproof/oil-proof. Use it as a reception piece on the day, then hang it in the office forever!
Key features:
- Off-white fabric base
- Oil-painting effect & texture, natural colors
- Strong compatibility, vivid & waterproof
- Thick material with canvas weave
Note: Slight 3% shrinkage possible during printing—allow extra bleed.
Company Annual Dinner FAQs
1. When is a Company Annual Dinner usually held?
Most companies hold it just before Lunar New Year (Spring Dinner) or year-end (before Christmas) — relaxed timing perfect for reflection and looking ahead.
2. What should people wear to a Company Annual Dinner?
If there's a theme, state the Dress Code clearly in the invite. To boost fun, add a "Best Dressed" award and use Foamboard for giant prize cheques or medals!