EVENTS: Pet Paw Bar & 11 More January Event Ideas
Why Pet Forward Events Matter
Try It: A Winter Paw Bar
Most communities already do pet events: Yappy Hours, Pet of the Month… maybe an annual costume contest.
The problem isn't that pet events don't work when they start to feel repetitive.
Check out this quick video about refreshing a familiar idea and turning it into a low-lift moment of connection that still feels thoughtful, seasonal, and intentional.
Plus, how to expand your pet events so that they market for you too!
Winter Paw Bar
Calling all pet-friendly communities to a paw-some winter celebration! This is the pet event of the year. Whether you live in a chilly climate or just want to bring the frosty fun indoors, the Winter Paw Bar is a simple, heartwarming way to celebrate your four-legged residents and their humans.
How to Set It Up:
Create a cozy, winter-themed station where residents can stop by with their pets to grab a treat (or two). Alternatively, you can also have a grab-and-go version.
Start with a table or counter draped in a winter or snowflake-patterned tablecloth.
Add our fun event signs in frames. They are pawesome!
Use clear jars or labeled bowls to display an assortment of dog treats—from small training bites to bone-shaped biscuits.
Include a few bins or baskets filled with small toys like tennis balls, squeaky toys, or rope chews.
Offer cute goodie bags so residents can take home a few items for their pups.
Add some decorative touches like faux snow, string lights, or paw-print cutouts for a fun photo opportunity.
Event Inspiration
11 More Ideas for Event Inspo
[Designs exclusive to RESIDENT RETENTION and ALL-ACCESS MEMBERS]
#1 Breakfast Club
Start the day right with our Breakfast Club resident event — a fun, grab-and-go morning featuring Coffee, Muffins, Oatmeal, or a Full Breakfast spread. It’s an easy, modern way to build community and remind residents that cool people live here.
#2 - Savory Soup Bar
As the winter chill deepens, there’s no better way to warm up than with a bowl of your favorite soup.
Have a variety of soups and use small serving cups to allow residents to sample multiple types.
Offer a selection of toppings that complement the soups.
Provide a selection of breads.
#3 - Polar Bear Plunge & Happy Hour
Brave the cold and dive into the new year with a Polar Bear Plunge event!
Gather at the Waters: Choose a local lake or your pool as the plunge site.
Dive In: Encourage participants to take a chilly dip.
Warm Up: Host a warm-up party with hot drinks and cozy blankets afterward.
#4 Community Game Night
Snacks, games, and friendly competitions are sure to be fun for your residents!
Step 1: Pick A Game Style: Board games, Card games, or Trivia night.
Step 2: Create a casual, welcoming setup.
Step 3: Show up, start the games, and let residents mingle.
#5 High Tea Party
Enjoy a refined high tea gathering with delightful conversation, exquisite teas, and delectable treats in an elegant, community-building atmosphere.
#6 Make It Yours: Planner Party
Start the year off right and inspire organization and creativity with a Planner/Notebook Decorating Station and Goal-Setting Workshop.
#7 Level Up Your New Year Life
The new year is a great time to level up every aspect of your residents' lifestyle and your apartment can be at the center of their personal success! A self-care series could include:
Fitness: Yoga, Pilates, or HIIT
Self Care: Self-Care Kit
Trending: Matcha Bar or Kit
#8 Move More Challenge
Get ready to boost your activity levels with our Community Movement Challenge, and let’s get active together! All movement counts in this fun and friendly competition.
Pro tip: For inclusivity, encourage all forms of movement (e.g., arm exercises, handcycling, or activity minutes).
#9 Popcorn Bar
3 Popcorn bars, 3 distinct looks. Choose your vibe- from elevated to classic movie night. Then pick a popcorn:
#10 Dazzling Apartment Glow Up Contest
Encourage residents to show off their style with an Apartment Glow-Up Virtual Contest—because everyone loves a makeover!
Submit photos: Residents share before-and-after shots or favorite décor moments
Vote online: Let the community choose their favorites and award prizes
Show your residents they are your EVERYTHING with this fun bagel bar breakfast event.
All you need are assorted bagels, a mix of sweet and savory spreads, fresh toppings, and a toaster to keep things warm and interactive.
