Looking for a few end of summer party ideas? We have you covered! As the kids get ready to go back to school and the warm season comes to an end, there’s no better way to cap things off than a festive last hurrah. Here are a few ways to end your summer in style and throw a memorable and fun party:
Make sure food and drink are plentiful
When coordinating a party, the key is to ensure that there are more than enough refreshments for all your guests and whoever they might bring. In general, the simplest and most informal thing to do is to tell your guests you will be providing food and SOME drinks, but to encourage them to BYOB.
No summer party would be complete without firing up the grill. Go with something simple and crowd-pleasing like grilled veggies, chicken, burgers and hot dogs. Rather than being chained to the grill, make clear in your invitation that cooking will take place during set hours (such as between 6 pm and 8 pm.). If your guests have dietary restrictions, say that they are free to bring a dish of their own in a potluck style. Avoid running out of food by purchasing plenty of inexpensive, simple finger foods like chips and dip.
Make sure you buy enough grillables for all your guests.Don’t forget the games
Beach-inspired party games are a great way to say goodbye to the summer season. Ring toss, horseshoes, cornhole and even bocce are fun, simple to play and inexpensive. Also keep a few other, more traditional options around, like a football, plastic throwing disc, wiffleball and maybe even a tic-tac-toe board.
Make sure there are enough places to sit
Five lawn chairs for 30 people simply won’t cut it. Often, the seating arrangement is an afterthought when planning an outdoor party, but your guests will not want to stand the entire time. Consider renting folding chairs, which are often available at local party supply stores for only around $2 a chair. Want something even easier and less expensive? Set out blankets and beach towels to give your party a picnic vibe.
Avoid the bugs
The only bad thing about late summer is that it can be peak insect season. Keep mosquitos and other pests away with citronella candles, fans and non-DEET bug repelling wipes that can be used as an alternative to smelly fogging sprays.
“Starting a bonfire is a great way to keep the party going after dark.”
Start a bonfire for late night festivities
Not ready to pack it in by the time the sun goes down? Starting a small, controlled bonfire is a great way to keep the party going after dark. Whether it’s in a store-bought fire pit or a designated campfire area, start with smaller dry wood and slowly build the fire over the course of the evening. Keep a fire extinguisher nearby just in case things get out of hand.
While you may not need it on hot summer days, the fire is a natural focal point, offering illumination and helping ward off any chill that your guests might feel. Break out some marshmallows, graham crackers and chocolate and encourage your guests to make s’mores!
Set up a staging area for selfies and photos
Want to make your summer party feel like more of an event rather than a backyard cookout? Add a touch of glitz by having a photo staging area, complete with custom backdrops! Sure, people will be walking around snapping candids, but a designated photo area is a fun and playful way to make your party feel that much more significant.
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