Summer is on its way, and what's better than celebrating it with a little summer party?

In this post, I will give you a guide that prepares you to host the perfect summer party, and I will share personal opinions on how I would host the party myself. We'll cover everything for the summer party - from delicious food, beautiful decorations, to fun activities.

 

Set a budget

First and foremost, it's important to set a realistic budget. Consider how many guests you want to invite and how much you're willing to invest in food, decorations, and entertainment. A clear budget will help you make decisions and avoid overspending.

If it were me, I would probably also find a couple of friends who would help me plan the party, and if you're hosting a small summer party for 10-15 people, it would also be quite normal to split the amount.

 

Figure out the practical details

Start gathering practical information. 
 

  • What date works best for you and your guests?
    I would choose a date well in advance, and make sure to schedule the date either a little early in the summer or late in the summer. It's often the case that people have plans in the middle of the summer, so I would probably choose a day in late June or early August to ensure that most people can attend. Otherwise, it's not difficult to ask around before inviting too many.

 

  • Where will you host the party?
    I live in a small two-bedroom apartment in Aarhus, so the conditions for hosting a summer party at my place are not really existent. Therefore, I would probably ask around in my network if anyone could lend me their garden. I'm lucky that my parents live nearby, so that would be an obvious option.
    If you're also choosing to host a summer party in a garden, make sure to drop a little note in the neighbors' mailbox at least a month before the party, so they are informed. It's just good manners, and you might also avoid complaints.

 

  • What if it rains during the party?
    Now we live in Denmark, so it's definitely not unlikely that it will rain right on the day I've chosen... and every other day besides. In that case, I would be prepared for rain no matter what the weather forecast says. A tent or a pavilion is the solution. Besides keeping the rain away, it's also quite cozy to have a place where people can gather when it gets dark.
     

 

Plan food and drinks

When it comes to food for the summer party, I would probably go with a buffet. Here, you have the opportunity to make some easy salads or fresh sandwiches for the summer party, and it's also a cheap solution - which we like.


If I were to host a small summer party, I would probably just agree that everyone should either bring food or drinks. That way, you share the responsibility a bit, which can be quite nice.
Otherwise, it would also be obvious to grill!


It's absolutely important that we don't run out of drink supplies for my summer party! I would probably go with a couple of friends to Germany a little beforehand and buy some cases of beer and liquor there.
So the question is - how much alcohol should I buy?
I've heard that a good rule of thumb could be to calculate 4 beers per guest, but I would recommend always buying a little too much. There's nothing worse than running dry.
 

Theme for the summer party

There are plenty of different themes to choose from for your summer party, but here are some of my favorites.
 

Beach theme:
This is a sure winner in the summer, as the weather is warm and nice. Here, you could even buy a small paddling pool if you're not holding it on the beach.


Afterski:
Even though it's summer, afterski is never boring. Set up some skis in the garden, play some German afterski music, and drink some jägerbombs!


White party:
Ask all your guests to show up in ONLY white clothes. This creates a special atmosphere for your party, and suddenly the party becomes much more elegant and nice. That being said, you can also choose other colors that create different moods.


Rave party:
It can only get wild. Buy UV lamps, UV paint, and UV tape. This creates a very special festive atmosphere, but this theme requires a slightly higher budget.


Traffic light party:
Are you hosting a summer party for many, and do not all know each other? Then the traffic light party is perfect. Then everyone can see exactly what status people have at the party😉


Costume party:
If you want to unleash your guests' creativity, a costume party is perfect. Here, guests can choose for themselves what they want to dress up as - a bit like the last day of school in 9th grade.


Football theme:
4-4-4-0!! Then it's football. Ask everyone to come in their national team jersey and buy some horns, then you can't go wrong.


Pyjamas party:
This is pure relaxation. Put on your most comfortable clothes and have a great party!

All about decoration for the summer party

It's a good idea to decorate, so there's a cozy and festive atmosphere at the party. 
 

Light chains:
I would definitely get myself a bunch of light chains. It's nice with some light when it starts to get dark, and it creates a cozy atmosphere. Especially if you hang it up inside the tent and make some cozy corners around the garden.
 

Party lights:
If I'm going all out for my summer party, then I need some proper party lights that can create a festive atmosphere. I would probably choose something like this Ibiza LED Lightbar Moonflower + Laser and Strobe
 

Bubble machine:
This is just a super fun initiative for your summer party, as it adds something extra to the atmosphere. A bubble machine is recommended.

 

Entertainment and activities for the summer party

It can be a good idea to prepare some entertainment or activities in advance, so the party stays lively. In addition, the activities also contribute to the community.


Beer pong:
This is a classic when it comes to parties. A super fun and festive game.
 

Beer bowling:
I would say that this is my personal favorite, and it's especially cozy in the summer, as it can bring many people together, and you get a good laugh whether your turn is in the game or outside the game.
 

Hammer and nail:
If you have the opportunity to get a tree stump, nails, and a hammer, then this is also a sure winner. Here, many people can also be involved.
 

Card games:
If you prefer to sit at the table and socialize, there are many different card games including "cheat", "fuck the dealer", "hey jack!", "waterfall", "pyramid" etc...
I could mention many more, but these are probably my personal favorites.
 

Roll the barrel:
If you need an activity where EVERYONE can participate, then roll the barrel is probably the answer. Here, it's all about being able to drink quickly:)
 

Karaoke: 
This is super fun when people have had a little to drink. Turn on some karaoke! 


 

Ensure audio equipment

When I host a summer party, it's extremely important to have good music and good speakers that provide clear and loud sound. I believe that music contributes to almost all the atmosphere of the party. Without music, the atmosphere is quite dead:)

If my budget allows for it, I would also definitely rent a DJ. That way, I can delegate the responsibility and ensure that the music suits the atmosphere. DJs are good at sensing the mood of people, so they know exactly which songs fit the party.

 

Ready for the summer party

Now we've been through all the points! So now I just say good luck with your summer party!