August 17th Office Contest Ideas + Best Prize Guide

Every August, Indonesia transforms into a sea of red and white. From big cities to remote villages, from small alleys to skyscrapers, everything is filled with the spirit of independence. One of the most iconic traditions of this celebration is August 17th competition — an activity that not only enlivens the atmosphere, but also revives the values of togetherness, cooperation and sportsmanship.

For the general public, August 17th competitions are a nostalgic reminder of childhood: cracker-eating contests in the yard, sack races in the field, or tug-of-war on the street. However, in the neighborhood... companyThis competition has a more strategic dimension. It's not just entertainment, but tools for building a healthy work culture.

A Brief History & Tradition of the August 17th Competition

The tradition of August 17th competitions began in the early days of Indonesia's independence. After Indonesia proclaimed its independence on August 17, 1945, people began looking for ways to celebrate this historic moment. Simple, inexpensive competitions—such as climbing a greased pole, eating crackers, and sack races—became symbols of joy amidst limited resources.

Over time, this competition has evolved. From mere popular entertainment, the August 17th competitions have now become part of formal activities at schools, universities, and even... large company offices. Many companies even combine traditional competitions with modern ones to create events that are inclusive and relevant to today's generation of employees.

Why Should Companies Hold August 17th Competitions?

1. Improving Employee Engagement

Many companies may ask: “Do competitions really have an impact on work teams?” The answer: Yes, and more than just entertainment.

According to a Gallup study, employees who feel engaged (engaged) in a company culture will work more productively and have higher loyalty. The August 17th competition provides a relaxed medium for interaction, where the boundaries between superiors and subordinates are blurred.

2. Encouraging Collaboration

Many competitions require teamwork, such as tug-of-war or relay races. These activities develop coordination, strategy, and trust among team members.

3. Strengthening Corporate Culture

Independence values such as fighting spirit, sportsmanship, and togetherness can be integrated into the work culture.

4. Creating Positive Memories

Photos and videos of the competition become memories that are shared on internal groups or company social media — strengthening the company's positive image in the public eye.

The Role of Prizes in Enlivening Competitions

Gifts aren't just about physical gifts, but also symbols of appreciation. The right gift can be:

• Increase participant enthusiasm
• Become souvenir which continues to be used
• Improve company branding through custom merchandise

Here it is Kaisae present. As a provider corporate gifting In Indonesia, Kaisae provides quality, custom, and eco-friendly competition prizes Perfect for August 17th celebrations at the office. With a combination of attractive designs, eco-friendly materials, and personalization options, Kaisae's gifts not only delight the winners but also leave a lasting positive impression.

The Most Exciting Traditional August 17th Competitions for the Office

Talking about August 17th without a competition? It's like eating meatballs without soup—it's incomplete.
These classic competitions not only liven up the atmosphere, but also create memorable moments for the entire team.
In the office, traditional competitions can be an effective way to lighten the mood, connect coworkers across divisions, and make everyone feel involved.

Here are some ideas for traditional August 17th competitions that can be adapted for the workplace, complete with implementation tips and variations.

1. Cracker Eating Competition

This is an iconic independence day competition. Participants stand under crackers suspended by string, and without using their hands, they must finish them as quickly as possible.
It looks simple, but once the crackers start to sway in the wind or get hit by the participants' faces, that's when the fun begins.

Tips for the Office:

• Use a portable pole or metal frame if there are no trees or open ceilings.
• Adjust the height of the crackers according to the average height of the participants to ensure fairness.
• Divide participants into several rounds if there are a lot of them.

Fun Variations:

• Use red and white crackers for an independence feel.
• Participants must do a small challenge (e.g. push-ups or dancing) before starting to eat.
• Add “slippery zones” on the floor for an extra level of difficulty.

2. Sack Race

Simple but full of laughter. Participants dip their feet into sacks and jump towards the finish line.
The race is notorious for often ending with participants toppling over or going off the track — much to the amusement of the audience.

Tips for the Office:

• Use a sack that is large enough and made of strong material.
• Mark the race course with tape or small cones.
• Make sure the surface is not slippery to avoid injury.

Fun Variations:

• Relay sack race: the first participant passes the sack to the next participant.
• Pair sack race: two people in one sack, coordination is the main challenge.

3. Tug of War

A symbol of strength and cooperation. Two teams face off, each trying to pull the rope over the line.
In the office, this can be a competition that builds solidarity between departments.

Tips for the Office:

• For teams with balanced physical strength.
• Wear gloves to avoid blisters.
• Prepare a safe ground or floor surface.

Fun Variations:

• Water tug of war: the losing team will fall into the water or get splashed.
• Cross-division “mixed team” tug of war to increase familiarity.

4. Marble Spoon Relay

Participants carry marbles on a spoon they bite, then pass them to their teammates without dropping them.
Concentration, balance and coordination are key.

Tips for the Office:

• Use a slightly winding path to make it more challenging.
• Have spare marbles on hand to cover any that fall.
• Make sure the track is not too slippery.

Fun Variations:

• Replace the marbles with red and white ping pong balls.
• Use a mini spoon for extra difficulty.

5. Red and White Fashion Show / Traditional Clothing

This competition wasn't just a physical competition; it also tested participants' creativity. They created costumes with red and white themes or traditional attire combined with elements of independence.

Tips for the Office:

• Determine the winning categories: “most creative”, “most exciting”, “most inspiring”.
• Prepare a simple runway and festive music.
• Encourage participants to explain their costume concepts.

Fun Variations:

• Add elements roleplayFor example, participants must act out a hero character.
• Team competition: one team is tasked with dressing up a model.

6. Water Moving Competition

Participants must transfer water from one container to another using a small cup or sponge.
It's exciting, tense, and often ends with everyone soaking wet.

Tips for the Office:

• Use colored water for a more interesting visual.
• Make sure the competition area is safe from slipping.
• Set a time limit to be more competitive.

Fun Variations:

• Move water by hand only.
• Use unique tools like giant spoons or plates.

💡 Notes: All of the above competitions can be scaled to anything—from a small meeting room contest to a large outdoor event. And while we haven't discussed prizes yet, trust us: the right prize will make the competition much more memorable.

Modern & Creative Competition for Offices in Celebration of August 17th

Not all employees have the same tastes.
The younger generation in the office is usually looking for challenges that are unique, interactive, and sometimes incorporate elements of technology.
Therefore, combining traditional competitions with modern ones will make the August 17th event more inclusive, dynamic, and interesting for all groups.

Here are some modern competition ideas that companies can adapt to enliven Independence Day celebrations.

1. Interactive Independence Quiz

Using platforms like Kahoot!, Mentimeter, or Quizizz, create quizzes about Indonesian history, national heroes, culture, and unique trivia about independence.

How to Prepare:

• Create 15–20 questions that are a mix of serious and funny.
• Use a projector or large screen so everyone can participate.
• Add categories like “fastest questions” to add to the challenge.

Advantages for Office:

• Can be attended by on-site or remote employees.
• No physical equipment required.
• Increase knowledge and sense of nationalism.

2. Desk/Room Decoration Competition

Each division decorates its desk or workspace with a red and white or independence theme.
The result is not only a competition, but also makes the office atmosphere more lively.

How to Prepare:

• Allow 1–2 hours before the competition is judged.
• Set assessment criteria such as creativity, theme suitability, and neatness.
• Provide judges from across divisions.

Variation:

• Use recycled materials for eco-friendly competitions.
• Add extra points if there are regional cultural elements.

3. Independence Scavenger Hunt

Participants search for specific items hidden in the office area or virtually through the clues given.

How to Prepare:

• Create a list of clues that lead to a specific location.
• Include riddles or historical questions that must be answered before continuing.
• Use QR codes to incorporate digital elements.

Excess:

• Encourage teamwork.
• Can be combined between physical and online searches.

4. Creative Video Competition

Employees or teams create short videos with an independence theme.
It could be a comedy drama, an advertising parody, or a motivational video.

How to Prepare:

• Specify a maximum duration (e.g. 1–3 minutes).
• Use platforms like Instagram Reels or TikTok to publish.
• Give the winners categories such as “funniest,” “most inspiring,” and “most creative.”

Benefit:

• Exploring team creativity.
• Providing organic and engaging corporate social media content.

5. Mini E-Sports Tournament

For teams familiar with online games, hold a mini e-sports tournament like Mobile Legends, PUBG Mobile, or a light game like Fall Guys.

How to Prepare:

• Choose games that can be played together quickly.
• Use a bracket system to determine the winner.
• Provide a large screen for the audience.

Notes:

• Suitable for companies with many generation Z or millennial employees.
• It can be held after work or during long breaks.

6. Escape Room Challenge

Create a game escape room Mini in an office room. The team must solve a series of puzzles to “escape” within a certain time.

How to Prepare:

• Create 4–5 interconnected puzzles.
• Use an independence theme, such as “freeing the hostage fighters”.
• Limit the time to 15–30 minutes per team.

Excess:

• Encourage critical thinking.
• Encourage teamwork and communication.

7. Traditional Food Cooking Competition

Teams compete to make typical Indonesian food within a certain time, for example mini tumpeng rice, satay, or klepon.

How to Prepare:

• Prepare the same basic ingredients for all teams.
• Use internal judges to judge taste, appearance, and creativity.
• Can be done indoors or outdoors.

Variation:

• Red and white food plating competition.
• MasterChef style “mystery box challenge”.

💡 Tips for Combining Modern & Traditional Competitions:
Don't be afraid to combine two concepts. For example, a tug-of-war competition could begin with an independence quiz to determine the number of players, or the winner of a cracker-eating contest could receive a special privilege in a scavenger hunt.

Technical Tips for Organizing a Competition in the Workplace

Planning a successful August 17th contest at the office isn't just about game ideas.
Without thorough preparation, the event could be a mess or even make participants unenthusiastic.
This section discusses the technical steps that need to be taken to ensure the event runs smoothly, safely, and impressively.

1. Determine the event theme

The theme is the common thread throughout the event. A clear theme helps determine the decorations, types of competitions, prizes, and even the dress code for participants.

Example Themes:

• Red and White Spirit
• Unite for Indonesia
• Nusantara Competition
• Eco-Independence Day (combining independence with an eco-friendly spirit)

2. Create a Preparation Timeline

Structured preparation ensures all details are taken care of.

Ideal Timeline:

• 4 Weeks Before: Determine the committee, budget, and list of competitions.
• 3 Weeks Before: Order prizes & competition equipment.
• 2 Weeks Before: Socialization of the competition to all employees.
• 1 Week Before: Check equipment, make a layout of the competition location.
• 1 Day Before: Put up decorations & do it dry run.

3. Committee Division & Roles

The committee is the backbone of the event. Make sure everyone knows their role.

Important role:

• Event Coordinator: Making sure everything goes according to plan.
• MC / Host: Liven up the atmosphere.
• Competition Coordinator: Responsible for the course of the game.
• Logistics Section: Providing equipment & gifts.
• Documentation: Take photos & videos for archives and social media.

4. Determine the location

Location affects the type of competition that can be held.

Office Location Options:

• Indoor: Large meeting room, hall, or lobby.
• Outdoor: Nearest yard, parking lot, or field.

Tips:

• Make sure the location is safe from potential slips or injuries.
• Prepare a tent or shade if outdoors.

5. Budget Setting

Create a clear budget from the start.

Cost Category:

• Decorations & competition equipment.
• Prizes for the winners.
• Consumption (snacks & drinks).
• Documentation.

💡 Saving tips: Use reusable supplies for next year's event.

6. Participant Safety

Security is the top priority.

Security Checklist:

• Provide a first aid kit on site.
• Briefing on the rules of the race before it starts.
• Use protective gear (gloves, knee pads) for physical competitions.

7. Maximum Documentation

Documentation is not only an archive, but also promotional content for the company.

Documentation Tips:

• Use a combination of photos and videos.
• Take “before & after” photos (before and after the competition).
• Use highlight reel for company Instagram or LinkedIn.

✅ In Next, we will discuss August 17th contest prize guide — this part will be the main shill moment for Kaisae while maintaining a natural and useful tone.

August 17th Contest Prize Guide for the Office

Prizes are an element that is often considered trivial, even though they have a big influence on the excitement of the competition.
Attractive prizes will make participants more enthusiastic, while personal prizes will make winners feel appreciated.
For companies, gifts can also be an effective branding tool — especially if they are customized with a company logo or message.

Kaisae as a provider corporate gifting In Indonesia, there are many prize options that can be customized for the August 17th competition, both for the main champion and consolation prizes.

Also Read: 10 Unique, Functional, and Employee-Friendly August 17th Office Competition Prize Ideas (2025)

Here are some gift package ideas that might inspire you.

1. Grand Prize Package

Designed for winners of big competitions like tug of war, sack races, or creative video competitions.

Package Contents:

• Premium tumbler made of stainless steel or bamboo (custom company logo)
• Exclusive tote bag to bring gifts
• Certificate of winner in frame elegant wood

Value-added: Tumblers and tote bags can be used daily, extending the company's brand exposure.

2. Second & Third Place Prize Packages

This prize is suitable for winners of medium competitions such as cracker eating competitions, marble relays, or independence quizzes.

Package Contents:

• Stationery kit (eco notebook + bamboo pen)
• Custom mugs or drinking bottles
• Simple goodie bag

Value-added: Quality stationery is always useful in the office, while a mug or water bottle adds a personal touch.

3. Consolation / Participation Prizes

Don't forget the participants who didn't win. Consolation prizes make everyone feel appreciated.

Prize Options:

• Custom red and white keychain or pin
• Eco-friendly mini notes
• Shopping vouchers or e-wallet in small denominations

Value-added: Small but functional gifts make events more inclusive and increase goodwill.

4. Red and White Thematic Prize

For independence-themed events, gifts can be in harmony with red and white nuances.

Prize Options:

• Red and white custom t-shirt
• Hat or bandana with independence design
• Canvas bag with national hero illustration

Value-added: This gift is not only relevant for the event, but can also be used outside of the August 17th moment.

5. Eco-Friendly Gifts

If a company wants to combine the spirit of independence with concern for the environment, this is the right choice.

Prize Options:

• Bamboo tumbler or glass bottle
• Stainless steel straw + cloth pouch
• Bamboo products (spoon set, mini cutting board)

💡 Tips from Kaisae:
Minimum gift order 2–3 weeks before the event If you need custom branding. For urgent needs, stock ready-to-ship also available.

Integrating Contests & Prizes into the August 17th Celebration Program at the Office

Many companies hold the August 17th competition as a single event, even though this moment can be expanded into a larger and more impactful celebration program.
With careful planning, competitions, prizes, and other elements can be combined into a unified event that is not only fun but also meaningful.

1. Start with an Inspiring Opening

Before the competition starts, hold a short opening session:

• Greetings from the company leadership.
• Screening of a short video on the theme of independence.
• A simple ice breaker to lighten the mood.

💡 The effect: All participants get into the same “mood,” and the company’s message can be conveyed warmly.

2. Combine Traditional & Modern Competitions

This combination makes all generations of employees feel involved.

• Traditional Competition: Sack race, tug of war, eating crackers.
• Modern Competition: Interactive quiz, creative video competition, hybrid scavenger hunt.

💡 The effect: All personality types — competitive, creative, or laid-back — have room to participate.

3. Use the Point System

Instead of just picking a winner per race, award points for each position (1st, 2nd, 3rd) and then accumulate the points to determine the winner. Grand Champion.

• Make every race feel important.
• Encourage participation across multiple categories.

4. Gift as a Strong Closing

Make the prize giving moment the climax of the event.

• Use simple music and stage.
• Include an announcement of “best costume” or “most spirited team”.
• Document this moment to share on company social media.

💡 Kaisae Tip: Customized prizes with company logos and event messages can be long-lasting keepsakes for winners.

5. Close with a Togetherness Activity

End the event with:

• Have lunch together.
• Team photo session.
• Distribution goodie bag for all participants (not just winners).

💡 The effect: Everyone goes home feeling satisfied and together, not just those who won.

Celebrate August 17th, Build Togetherness

August 17th competitions at the office aren't just about games and prizes. They're a time to celebrate togetherness, strengthen relationships among coworkers, and build a positive spirit that can carry over into daily activities. With careful planning—from traditional to modern competition ideas, technical tips for organizing, to choosing the right prizes—companies can create memorable and meaningful celebrations.

Prizes aren't the only reason people enter competitions, but a well-thought-out gift can create a "wow" effect that makes an event more memorable. That's why choosing a gift that's high-quality, functional, and aligned with your company's values is crucial.

Kaisae here to help you present gifts and merchandise best for every August 17th event in the office.
With a collection of customizable products, eco-friendly materials, and experience serving hundreds of companies throughout Indonesia, Kaisae is ready to be your partner in creating memorable moments.

🎯 Start Preparing Now

Don't wait until the last minute to plan your August 17th contest prizes.
Contact the team Kaisae today for:

• Free consultation gift ideas & merchandise
• Complete product catalog with custom options
• Special offers for large orders

📩 Click here to contact Kaisae or visit kaisae.com for more information.