How to Throw an Outdoor Party

Last Updated: August 25, 2021 References

Who doesn’t love a good outdoor party? Between the drinks, the barbecue food, the games, and the relaxation, these are events where everyone can really kick back and have a great time. If you want to get all your friends together for a party but have never planned one yourself, then you might be a little confused about how to pull this off. Luckily, it’s easy! With the right atmosphere, pre-planning, and party gear, you’ll throw a party your friends will never forget!

Method 1

Method 1 of 11:
Pick a fun theme for the party.

0

8

1
Who doesn't love a good themed party? Your guests will love the festivity and fun for whatever theme you pick. Then you can have decorations and food based around that theme. There are tons of themes to pick from.^{[1]
X
Research source}
- If the party is for a holiday like July 4th or Memorial Day, then include plenty of patriotic decorations.
- A fiesta theme could include sombreros and Mexican food.
- A tropical theme could have lots of umbrellas, grass skirts, and fruity drinks.
- Throwback parties, like for the 70s or 80s, are always a good time for everyone to get into a party mood.
Advertisement

Method 2

Method 2 of 11:
Decorate with balloons, streamers, lights, and more!

0

9

1
A festive atmosphere sets a fun mood, so decorate all you want! Fill up some balloons, hang banners or streamers, put out a decorative tablecloth, and use colorful plates and cups. This should all get your guests in the mood for a great time.^{[2]
X
Research source}
- Try to match your decorations to the event. If it’s a Fourth of July party, include plenty of flags and patriotic décor. If it’s an Oktoberfest, use blue and white checkered tablecloths and banners.
- If your party will last into the night, string some outdoor lights or put out Tiki torches for a nice ambiance.^{[3]
  X
  Research source}

Method 3

Method 3 of 11:
Prepare yummy snacks and appetizers.

0

2

1
Everyone likes to snack on something right when they get to a party. You have lots of choices to make sure your guests have something to eat while they socialize and you prepare the main course.^{[4]
X
Research source}
- Small plates like mini hot dogs or sliders, rice balls, veggie plates, or tiny tacos are fun appetizers to hand out.
- You don't have to go overboard with the appetizers. Some chips, nuts, or pretzels are great too.
- If you put out chips, some homemade salsa, hummus, or guacamole goes great with that.
- Ask other people to sign up and bring dishes to your party if you'd rather host a potluck.^{[5]
  X
  Expert Source
  
  Stefanie Chu-Leong
  Professional Event Planner
  Expert Interview. 24 January 2020.}
Advertisement

Method 4

Method 4 of 11:
Fire up the grill for the main course.

0

10

1
Barbecuing is a staple at any outdoor party. You can make hamburgers, hot dogs, ribs, pork, roast chicken, kabobs, sausages, beans, corn, or grilled vegetables on your barbecue easily. Plan out your menu and get ready to grill everything up for your guests.^{[6]
X
Research source}
- Pre-cook any food items that take a long time to prepare. While some items, like hamburgers or hot dogs are quick to make, some others, like smoked ribs, take a few hours. ^{[7]
  X
  Research source}
- Include a few vegetarian dishes so no one is left out. Good choices include vegetable kabobs, veggie burgers, salads, hummus dip, and grilled vegetables.

Method 5

Method 5 of 11:
Stock up on plenty of refreshing beverages.

0

8

1
Keep the drinks flowing! Set up a nice big table or cooler with all the drink options so your guests don't get thirsty. They can grab whatever they want and keep enjoying the party.^{[8]
X
Research source}
- Pick up a keg or a few cases of your favorite beer. Keep all the beer on ice so it stays nice and cold for the whole party.^{[9]
  X
  Research source}
- Offer non-alcoholic drinks too. Set out some alcohol-free options so there is plenty of variety to enjoy. Soda, iced tea, lemonade, and seltzer are all great non-alcoholic drinks. Also don’t forget plenty of water bottles.
- You could also ask your guests to bring their own beer or drinks. This way, everyone can have their favorite kind and you don’t have to worry about buying a bunch of different types of beverages.
Advertisement

Method 6

Method 6 of 11:
Make a delicious party punch.

0

8

1
This is a great, refreshing choice for your guests on a hot day. There are all kinds of different party punch recipes, ranging from hard lemonade to sangria. Mix up your favorite recipe in a big bowl and put it out for your guests.^{[10]
X
Research source}
- If you do put out a party punch, make sure you label it so everyone knows it’s alcoholic.
- For an extra treat, cut up some fruit and add it to the punch.
- You could also mix up a batch of alcohol-free punch. Just make sure both types are labeled!

Method 7

Method 7 of 11:
Serve up some delicious desserts.

0

1

1
A great dessert can wrap up the whole party. You have tons of choices, so pick a few of your favorites and bring them out for your guests to enjoy.^{[11]
X
Research source}
- Ice cream is always a winner! You can scoop it yourself or hand out some packed cups or sandwiches.
- Pie or cobbler is great for any summer BBQ, especially around July 4th.
- Baking cookies makes for a simple but delicious dessert.
- Having your guests toast marshmallows and make s'mores around the barbecue will definitely be a great time.
Advertisement

Method 8

Method 8 of 11:
Don't forget about the music.

0

8

1
A great playlist can really make the party! Include a mix of classics and new tracks to satisfy everyone’s tastes. It’s best to make your party playlist ahead of time. That way, you can just let the music run without worrying about changing it.^{[12]
X
Research source}
- Ask your guests if they have any requests when they arrive and add them to your playlist.

Method 9

Method 9 of 11:
Play fun outdoor games.

0

8

1
Some outdoor games can really make your party! Putting out things like horseshoes, frisbees, cornhole, beach balls, footballs, and a slip and slide should keep everyone on their feet.^{[13]
X
Research source}
- Games are an especially great idea if kids are coming. A kiddie pool or sprinkler should keep them busy while their parents enjoy the party.
Advertisement

Method 10

Method 10 of 11:
Make sure there's enough seating for everyone.

0

2

1
Get a headcount and plan to have enough seating out for everyone to relax. Make sure you get all the seating you need before the party and set it all up.^{[14]
X
Research source}
- For easy seating options, bring out chairs from inside and set up any camping chairs you have. If a lot of people are coming to your party, consider renting chairs. You can also rent foldable tables for your guests to sit at too.

Method 11

Method 11 of 11:
Protect your guests from pesky bugs

0

4

1
You don’t want mosquitos swarming your guests! This can be a real drag during summer parties. Luckily, there are a few things you can do to keep them away from your guests.^{[15]
X
Research source}
- Offer your guests bug spray or wipes.
- Drain any standing water a week before the party to get rid of mosquitos.
- You could also spray your yard with some insecticide a few days before the party. This usually kills any leftover mosquitos so they don’t attack your guests.
Advertisement