Reindeer Race

Online reindeer races – getting into the Christmas spirit, even for teams in different locations

The reindeer race is also available as an online team event. In this format, all participants join a shared online meeting. The host guides them through the game, explains the rules and oversees the race laps. Participants play via their browser on a smartphone, tablet, PC or laptop. According to the online product page, no app or additional software is required; a up-to-date browser and standard video conferencing software are sufficient.

The competitive spirit is maintained even online. Participants are encouraged to use their cameras and microphones to cheer on their reindeer in the main meeting. Chat functions, open breakout sessions or the communication channels already in use within the company can be utilised for coordination.

The result is a virtual Christmas event that involves more than just quietly clicking away. There’s strategising, chatting, laughing, cheering and waiting together for the next lap of the race. For remote teams or international groups in particular, the online reindeer race is a short, festive activity that creates a shared experience even when people are apart.

Classification within the BITOU 4-level system

The Reindeer Race is a Level 1 – Classic Team Event in the BITOU 4-level system.

This level focuses on fun, energy, connection and shared experiences. That’s exactly what the reindeer race delivers: it quickly gets people involved, creates a great atmosphere and provides a shared moment that’s particularly well suited to Christmas parties and winter events.

The format has been deliberately kept simple and accessible. It requires neither analysis nor prior knowledge nor in-depth reflection. At the same time, the game can reveal subtle team dynamics: Who takes a bold tactical approach? Who seeks out allies? Who observes the group? Who cheers the others on? Who is desperate to win?

Anyone wishing to explore these observations in greater depth later on can move on to Level 2. There, the shared experience evolves into a structured team-building exercise with a stronger focus on collaboration, communication and applying what has been learnt.

The benefits of the reindeer race at a glance:

✔ A festive atmosphere without all the hassle: The reindeer race instantly brings a wintry atmosphere to the event. The concept is easy to grasp and is ideal for Christmas parties, end-of-year celebrations or short winter events.

✔ High interaction factor: Even though everyone has their own favourites, there’s plenty of discussion. Participants can team up, coordinate their strategies and work together to try and get a reindeer to the front.

✔ Cheering on the team together: As soon as the race gets underway, the strategy becomes an emotional moment. The spectators cheer on the riders, root for their favourites and react in real time to how the race is unfolding.

✔ Easily accessible to everyone: No prior knowledge or technical hurdles are required. The game runs in the browser, the rules are simple, and players can get straight into the action.

✔ Tactics with a touch of humour: Healthy food gives the reindeer a boost, whilst sweet treats make them tired. This simple mechanic leads to lots of humorous choices and little surprises as the game progresses.

✔ Ideal for large groups: The format is scalable and can accommodate up to 500 people in person and up to 1,000 online. This makes it suitable for both departmental events and large-scale Christmas celebrations.

✔ Works even when space is limited: As the event mainly requires seating or standing room, the reindeer race can be incorporated into existing venues with minimal hassle.

✔ A short format with plenty of energy: A reindeer race is a great addition to the programme between dinner, the year in review or the celebrations. It adds a bit of liveliness to the proceedings without taking over the whole evening.

Reindeer races as part of the BITOU event tour

The reindeer race is a classic Level 1 format. It generates energy, entertainment and a shared experience. The focus is on fun, the festive spirit, competition and camaraderie – without any training element.

From here, the team’s journey can take various paths:

• Level 1 – Classic team event:
  Those who wish to stay within the festive theme can opt for formats such as the Christmas Olympics, the Team Quiz Show Christmas Edition, the Christmas Smart Team Challenge or the Christmassy Chain Reaction.
• Level 2 – Intelligent Team Building:
  If the aim is to turn playful competition into greater cooperation and coordination, formats such as Chain Reaction XXL, Turn Around or AI Connect are ideal. Here, the shared experience is more closely linked to reflection and application.
• Level 3 – Team Development:
  If, following a relaxed introduction, teams wish to delve deeper into communication, roles, decision-making or collaboration under pressure, formats such as Adventure Everest, Before Mars or On Thin Ice are suitable next steps.Level 4 – Team Coaching:
  If specific challenges, tensions or change-related issues within the team need to be addressed, bespoke team coaching provides the appropriate framework.

A reindeer race can therefore be a relaxed, wintery way to kick off a longer team trip – from sharing a laugh to specifically developing teamwork.