Establishing meaningful connections in small networking events is already a challenge, but dealing with a large crowd ramps it up to the next level. Without the right networking ideas, your guests may find it difficult to stand out and make lasting impressions—which defeats the whole purpose of networking events!

Don’t be the type of host that makes the mistake of settling for the typical handshake introductions. Instead, check out these innovative networking event ideas for large groups. The goal? Create a relaxed environment where conversations flow as smoothly as the drinks at your favourite social house.

“Bar Talk” Speed Networking 

Let’s kick off our list of networking event ideas with a classic: speed networking. But this time let’s add a boozy twist. Instead of the usual business card exchanges, pair up short, timed networking rounds with signature cocktails or mocktails. Event attendees can spend three to five minutes with each new connection, sharing a drink and a quick chat, before rotating to the next person.

🤝 Pro Tip: Kick things off with fun icebreaker themes like “worst work mistake” or “favourite travel destination” to make your networking activities more engaging. 

Image Source: Canva

Pool and Pitch Games 

Need awesome networking event ideas for a lively event space? Pair pool games with professional pitches. Before taking a shot, each player must pitch an idea or share a quick career highlight. You can rent pool tables or look for private event spaces with one in-house. This is a quick and easy way to make networking events fun and interactive.

Arcade Tournament 

If you’re in the market for professional networking event ideas that foster successful business relationships, while allowing attendees to let loose and have fun, an arcade tournament is your answer. You can look for a venue with arcade games or rent some. Games like Pac-Man, pinball, and air hockey are your best picks.

Organize a friendly competition with brackets or leaderboards, where attendees can sign up for different networking games or challenges. Position social stations around the arcade area to engage attendees and give them space to unwind and mingle. Don’t forget to prepare awesome prizes to up the ante!

Brew & Brainstorm Sessions 

When we think of great networking event ideas for a large group of professionals, immediate thought goes to collaborative brainstorming over craft beers. Why not? It’s simple, fun, and interactive—all points that make for a successful networking event.

All you have to do is set up bar stations with unique drinks and challenges. Let attendees hop between stations and taste test while tackling industry-related challenges, sharing new ideas, or collaborating on creative projects. 

For example, you might have a “Future Trends” station with a cutting-edge cocktail, or a “Creative Solutions” bar with a refreshing brew. Think of it as an elevated happy hour that goes all night. 

🍺Read more: Where to Go for the Best Happy Hour in Toronto

Silent Disco 

Here’s a unique twist on traditional networking that’s perfect for young professionals: Silent Disco networking event! Fun networking event ideas like these turn the business world on its head by combining music, conversation, and a touch of whimsy.

Rent out audio equipment (a lot of wireless headphones, for one) and set it up with great music for attendees. Those who want to dance can dance, and those who want to socialize can socialize without noise distractions. Win-win!

🤝 Pro Tip: Set up a lounge area for small groups who want to engage in further discussions or knowledge sharing away from the dance floor.

Wine Tasting 

Wine tasting is probably one of the best networking activities for professionals. It’s elegant and relaxed, and offers the perfect setting for meaningful conversations. Guests can savour a curated selection of wines while engaging in relaxed, yet insightful discussions.  

🤝 Pro Tip: Bring in a sommelier for a guided, tasting or throw in some casual networking games for large groups like Human Bingo to create natural networking opportunities. P.S. This one’s also a hit for holiday work parties. 

Image Source: Canva

Themed Pub Quiz 

Some types of networking events can feel a bit strained or formal. To bring an element of fun and engagement to the mix, here’s one of our classic professional networking event ideas: old school pub quiz. It’s great for both in-person or virtual networking events, and adds a dash of friendly competition to spice things up.

Choose a theme close to your event’s goal, then build your questions around it. Divide attendees into smaller groups, ensuring a mix of different professional backgrounds to encourage new connections. Throw in exciting prizes to keep the morale high, and you’re good to go.

🤝 Pro Tip: Prepare rounds of trivia and breaks for mingling, so guests can enjoy both the challenge and the chance to make valuable connections.

Level Up Your Networking Events With Petty Cash 

Say goodbye to formal, uptight networking events and hello to fun, unforgettable ones. With Petty Cash as your networking event venue, you’ll have the perfect backdrop to bring all your fun networking ideas to life—and then some.

Our 360 bar area can accommodate up to 150 standing guests—300 if you splurge for a full event buyout available Monday through Thursday. With us, you have plenty of space to create an engaging and interactive environment even for large groups. But we’re not just big on space, we’re also big on fun.

Our event space features various entertainment options, from pool tables to retro arcade games, so you and your attendees can go all out. With Petty Cash, you get more than just a venue—you get a space for all your networking ideas. Book our networking event venue today!