Summer is here, and it’s time to enjoy the sun and warm weather while it lasts! Host some awesome get-togethers to celebrate the hot days, balmy nights, and summer holidays. Whether it’s a backyard BBQ, a poolside bash, or a picnic in the park, summer gatherings are a must. So grab your shades and sunscreen, and let’s soak up the fun in the sun! Ensure your event is a smashing success by having the right essentials.
Create the atmosphere
Pull it all together and set the scene. You don’t have to go all out on where you host a party, but some things will make it a party.
- Tables and optional Tablecloths: Provide surfaces for food and drinks, along with stylish tablecloths to match your theme.
- Seating: Have enough chairs, benches, or picnic blankets for your guests, or remind them to bring their own.
- Outdoor Decorations: Elevate the party spirit with string lights, lanterns, and colorful banners.
- Outdoor Games: Provide entertainment options like cornhole or water balloons.
We’re here for the food
You know everyone comes to parties because they love summer food. Whether you plan and provide it all or go potluck, it’s critical.
- Grilling Essentials: Make sure you have a reliable grill, charcoal or propane, and grilling tools for the perfect BBQ experience.
- Food and Beverages: Plan a menu with BBQ favorites, fresh fruits, salads, snacks, and refreshing beverages.
- Ice and Coolers: Keep drinks and perishable foods cool with plenty of ice and portable coolers.
Nobody wants to be uncomfortable
Summer can be hot, sticky, and full of bugs. Those aren’t reasons to not have a good time.
- Sunscreen and Bug Repellent: Provide ample sunscreen and bug repellent to protect guests from harmful rays and pesky bugs.
- Shade: Offer canopies or tents to give guests a chance to escape the scorching sun.
- Outdoor Fans or Misters: Keep guests cool and comfortable on hot days with outdoor fans or misting systems.
- Tiki Torches or Citronella Candles: Create ambiance and repel bugs with strategically placed tiki torches or citronella candles.
Everybody just wants to have fun
Don’t forget the entertainment! Everyone will want to mingle and chat, but they’ll also enjoy a little extra fun.
- Sound System or Portable Speakers: Set the mood with high-quality sound by having a sound system or portable speakers to play summer tunes.
- Playlist: Create a fun playlist featuring upbeat songs to keep the party vibe going.
- Entertainment Options: Consider additional entertainment like a karaoke machine, portable projector for outdoor movies, or a DIY photo booth.
Don’t forget the essentials…
With all of this planning, it can be easy to overlook the basics. Don’t forget these essentials:
- Disposable Plates, Cups, and Utensils
- Napkins and Paper Towels
- Garbage Bags and Recycling Bins
- First Aid Kit
From setting the scene and providing delicious treats to ensuring guest comfort and entertainment, these essentials will help you create a memorable event. So gather your supplies, invite your friends and loved ones, and get ready to celebrate the joys of summer with a gathering that will be the talk of the town!
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Author – Brandy Hall, Nurse Writer, turned a passion for patient teaching into content writing. By creating easy-to-understand patient education content, she helps people understand their health without complex terms and jargon. She is published on Sleep.com, Healthnews, and more.