Top Outdoor Corporate Events for the Summer
By Rob Hard

Because most organizations plan seminars and indoor business events during the winter months, event planning for the warmer weather months of May through September offers a welcomed change of pace.
As an event planner, you will want to suggest outdoor activities for your corporate hospitality, customer appreciation, product launches, sales meetings and employee recognition events (and hope that the weather is good to you).

1. Golf
With about 27 million golfers in the U.S., golf outings are among the most popular corporate events each year. Planning a golf event is on the top of the list for consideration by most executives. Options include:
•    Your own golf outing
•    PGA tour
•    Golf school
•    Top Picks

2. Baseball
With a history that goes back to the 1800s, planning entertainment at America\'s favorite pastime remains on top of the list for pleasing groups and crowds. Baseball teams have developed several options to entertain groups within the ballpark, not to mention the party options outside the park:
•    Suites
•    Bleacher parties
•    Picnic parties
•    Field and upper deck party areas

3. Thoroughbred Horse Racing
"Win, place or show!" A day of Thoroughbred racing, manicured grounds and fantastic food is a great way to build relationships. And Thoroughbred race tracks can be found in most states across the country. Tip: Make sure your program includes a winner\'s circle group photo for your guests. Group entertainment package options will include the following:
•    Executive suites and millionaire\'s dining room
•    Marquee tents
•    Box seats
•    Meeting facilities

4. Concerts and Performing Arts
In nearly every city there\'s an outdoor concert series "in the park" with some of the best performers in pop, folk, blues, jazz, opera, orchestra, country and world music. These music festivals include pavilion or lawn seating, private tents for group entertainment, and options for private catered dining. This, combined with the natural decor of the park and night sky coupled with candles, wine and cheese, will be a sure hit.
Tip: In addition to music programs, many city park districts plan an outdoor community theater in the park. If they do, consider a family BBQ night, followed by the play.

5. Cruises and Sailing
If you are located near water - an ocean, lake or river - chartering a private yacht or boat during the day or evening offers incredible views and delivers a successful program. Depending on your location, most cruise lines charge a three or four hour minimum and rates for weekends are higher than weekdays. Tip: In addition to a captain with a great personality, hire a docent to serve as guide and storyteller. The following include popular options:
•    Booze cruise (cocktails with live music)
•    Brunch or dinner cruise
•    Historical or architectural cruise

6. Motor Speedway
NASCAR is known for having the most loyal fans, so if you host an event at one of the motor speedways, you will increase the perception/standing of your organization in the eyes of your guests. Similar to the horse track (see below), motor speedways offer private entertainment for business events that includes suites, meeting facilities and catering options that really enhance the track experience.

Tip: Consider hosting your event at a speedway on a non-race day as an alternative to traditional business meetings in a hotel environment.

7. Your Own Private Hospitality or Adventure Program
In addition to taking your group to the most popular events and venues in town, there are countless other options to consider for planning a unique event, such as a private reception with ethnic dining, music and dance performances as a signature event at any of the following:
•    Best restaurant patio
•    Art gallery and garden
•    Museum or zoo
•    Horse barn
•    Winery
•    Botanic garden

Or, consider taking your group for a day to one of these planned group events.
Team building retreat in the woods:
•    Fishing retreat
•    Horse back riding
•    Walking city tours
•    Hiking and biking
•    Off-road and jeep tours