When the weather warms up and the sun shines bright, it’s time to take the fun outdoors.
Whether you’re planning a back garden gathering, a family picnic, or simply want to make the most of your outdoor space, having a range of entertainment options can ensure everyone has a great time.
From classic games to Street Food, here are eight ideas for outdoor entertaining to make the most of the nice weather this spring:
1. Outdoor Movie Night:
It’s actually really easy to transform your back garden into a cosy outdoor theatre! All you need is a projector (and you can get these quite cheaply online!), a portable screen (or simply a large white bedsheet), and some comfy seating. Invite your friends and family over, pop some buckets of popcorn, and enjoy watching a film under the stars. Don’t forget blankets and pillows for added comfort – You can always ask people to bring their own if you don’t have enough. The hardest part will be trying to agree on what to watch!
2. Lawn Games:
A giant Jenga or huge chess board is a great way to get people having fun. If you don’t have any lawn games, why not get crafty and create your own using materials you have at home? A ring toss is an easy one to DIY if you have wood and rope handy. Other lawn games include croquet and giant noughts and crosses.
3. Host a Picnic:
Host a picnic in your garden, or if you lack the space to invite everyone over or you want to make it more convenient, you can arrange to meet up in a nearby park. Encourage guests to bring their favorite dishes to share, and set up picnic blankets or tables for dining al fresco. Don’t forget to pack some outdoor-friendly games like frisbee or a football for after the picnic. And of course a few bottles of wine!
4. Garden Party with Live Music:
If you have the space then turn your garden into a venue for live music and entertainment. Maybe you are a keen musician, or you know some who’d love to play; however if you don’t then you can hire a local musician or band to perform. Set up some seating areas, and let the music fill the air. Add solar string lights or lanterns for added ambiance as the sun starts to set, but make sure you warn the neighbours about this kind of thing first!
5. Hold a Barbecue:
Barbecues are synonymous with the great outdoors; who can resist a burger or sausage cooked on an outside grill? Make sure you cater for everyone; vegetarians, fish and meat eaters alike. If you’re an accomplished chef, a large piece of seasoned and slow barbecued meat such as pork can be absolutely amazing. Offer baps alongside to complete the meal. Often in the spring and summer months, supermarkets will have great deals on pre-prepared meats you can simply put straight on the barbecue. If you don’t want to spend time catering (or worry that you’ll burn everything!), then companies such as Poptop can do that bit for you to save you the hassle.
6. Nature Scavenger Hunt:
Explore the great outdoors with a nature scavenger hunt. This is a great one for kids and family groups, simply create a list of items for participants to find, such as pinecones, wild flowers, bugs or certain types of leaves. Provide each person or team with a checklist and set them loose to discover the wonders of nature (and take photographs of their finds) in your garden or a nearby park.
7. Stargazing Party:
A romantic option for a clear night; why not gaze up at the night sky and marvel at the beauty of the stars during a stargazing party. Set up telescopes or binoculars for closer views, and bring along a guidebook or app to help identify constellations and planets above. Don’t forget to bring snacks and beverages to enjoy while you stargaze.
8. Water Fun Day:
Another one that’s popular with kids and adults alike! Beat the heat with a water fun day in your garden. No pool? No matter! Set up sprinklers, water balloons, and a slip ‘n slide for some refreshing water play. You can also fill up kiddie pools or inflatable water slides for added excitement. Don’t forget sun cream, and plenty of hydration to stay cool and safe under the sun.
Which one is your favourite idea for entertaining outside?
