How To Host an In-Office Ice Cream Social
By Brandon Smith
Yes, the weather is nice and what's the #1 food people associate with summer? Ice cream! Hosting an in-office ice cream social is a must when the weather gets too hot. Not only is it a great treat for your team to cool down, but there are many ways to make it as interactive as possible. This guide will help you plan the perfect ice cream event that your team will love. For more fun and engaging office event ideas, check out our Officewell Experiences.
Why Host an Ice Cream Social?
An ice cream social is a simple yet effective way to bring your team together. There are many different directions you can go with it – from a simple DIY setup to bringing in some of the experts. Plus, who doesn't love ice cream?
Planning Your Ice Cream Social (On Your Own)
Choose the Date and Time
First things first. Lock in your date and time! We recommend at least 2 weeks' notice and doing it sometime after lunch but not too late. Get it on the calendar for everyone to see!
Select Your Ice Cream Options
Variety is key. Include different flavors and types of ice cream such as regular, dairy-free, and low-sugar options to cater to everyone's preferences. And yes, load up on the flavors...the more the merrier.
Gather Supplies
You'll need:
- Ice cream scoops
- Bowls and spoons
- Ice cream cones
- Napkins & wipes (vet move!)
Toppings
We had to dedicate toppings to their own section because of their importance. You can go basic, or you can go wild.
Basic Toppings:
- Sprinkles
- Chocolate syrup
- Caramel sauce
- Crushed nuts (peanuts, almonds)
- Whipped cream
- Maraschino cherries
- Hot fudge
- Crushed cookies (Oreos, graham crackers)
- Mini marshmallows
- Fresh fruits (strawberries, bananas)
Next Level Toppings:
- Sea salt caramel drizzle
- Crumbled brownies
- Candied bacon
- Sliced toasted coconut
- Nutella swirls
- Boba pearls
- Spicy honey
- Shredded dark chocolate
- Matcha powder
- Edible glitter
Set Up the Space
Designate a spot in your office where people can easily gather. Decorate with fun and colorful banners or tablecloths to create a festive atmosphere.
Ice Cream Social Activities
Ice Cream Tasting Challenge
Set up a blind taste test with various flavors. Have participants guess the flavors and vote for their favorites. This adds a fun competitive element to the social.
Build-Your-Own Sundae Bar
Let your team get creative with a sundae bar. Provide a variety of toppings and sauces so everyone can make their perfect sundae.
Ice Cream Trivia
Prepare a list of fun ice cream facts and trivia questions. Quiz your team and offer small prizes for the correct answers.
Don’t Want to Do It All Yourself? We've Got You Covered
If you're looking to make your ice cream social even more special, consider hiring one of Officewell's unique ice cream experiences. Here are some options:
Ben & Jerry's Pop-Up
Bring the beloved flavors of Ben & Jerry's directly to your office. A Ben & Jerry's pop-up can offer a wide range of their iconic flavors, and their team can help scoop and serve, making your event hassle-free.
Learn more
Mr. Softee Ice Cream Truck
Nothing says summer like an ice cream truck. Hire the Mr. Softee Ice Cream Truck to visit your office. Your team will love the nostalgia and the variety of ice cream cones, sundaes, and shakes available.
Learn More
Boozy Ice Cream
For a more adult twist, consider a boozy ice cream social. This experience combines delicious ice cream with a splash of alcohol. It's perfect for an end-of-week treat or a special celebration. And don't worry, they also have non-alcoholic classics as well!
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Ice Cream Mixology Class
In this fun mixology class, you’ll learn how to craft two signature boozy ice cream cocktails, perfect for corporate gatherings or team-building events. You'll also sample exclusive seasonal flavors, and have plenty of opportunities for Instagram-worthy photos. The experience includes a welcome drink and a branded keepsake glass to take home.
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Push Pops
A fun, effortless way to elevate any event—these boozy (and non-boozy!) push pops bring a unique twist to classic frozen treats. Delivered pre-scooped (or add a cart with staff!!) and ready to enjoy, they come in a variety of flavors, including indulgent dark chocolate whiskey and refreshing mango margarita sorbet.
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Bonus: Smoothie Bar
For those looking to take the healthy approach. How about a Smoothie Bar? We bring the juice press to you! Our Smoothie Bar arrives onsite, transforming any event into a refreshing and interactive experience. With a full setup and fresh, high-quality ingredients, our team blends custom smoothies on demand, offering employees a delicious and energizing break.
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Ice Cream & Olive Oil Tasting
For a unique and sophisticated twist, try an ice cream and olive oil tasting. This gourmet experience pairs high-quality ice creams with a variety of flavorful olive oils, creating an unexpected and delightful combination that will intrigue and delight your team.
Sundae-Making Class
Get ready to create your own boozy (or not boozy!) ice cream sundaes in this interactive, hands-on experience, perfect for corporate events. You’ll learn how to make a custom sundae and a flight of unique ice cream creations, while sampling a variety of seasonal and limited-edition flavors.
Learn more
FAQs About Hosting an Office Ice Cream Social
How much notice should we give before planning an ice cream social?
We recommend giving at least 2 weeks' notice so employees can mark their calendars and RSVP if needed.
What types of ice cream should we include?
Offer a mix of regular, dairy-free, and low-sugar options to accommodate everyone’s preferences. Variety keeps it fun and inclusive.
Can we book a professional ice cream setup through Officewell?
Yes! Officewell offers curated experiences like Ben & Jerry’s Pop-Ups, Mr. Softee trucks, boozy ice cream bars, and more. Just reach out to an Experience Manager.
Do you provide vegan or dairy-free ice cream options?
Yes—many of our partners can include vegan and dairy-free selections upon request.
What’s included in an Officewell-hosted ice cream experience?
Each experience varies, but typically includes setup, staff, cleanup, and all the ice cream and toppings needed. Some packages include extras like games, keepsake items, or alcoholic options.
Make Your Ice Cream Social a Success
Hosting an in-office ice cream social is a delightful way to promote team interaction and create a positive work environment. With the added options from Officewell, you can take your event to the next level. Ready to plan your event? Contact an Officewell Experience Manager today and make your ice cream social an unforgettable experience for your team.