20 Backyard Party Ideas to Set Up This Summer
Make space for outdoor gatherings.
The backyard is an extension of your home, making it a great spot for spending time with friends and family, especially in warmer weather. Turn your backyard into the perfect place to entertain with a few additions. From comfortable seating to patio refreshments, we've put together a list of easy backyard party ideas to get your outdoor space ready for a summer of celebration.
1. Create Comfortable Outdoor Seating Zones for Guests
Seating is a key element to keep in mind for backyard entertaining. Make sure everyone has enough space to lounge and catch up by outfitting your patio with an outdoor seating set. An outdoor sofa and a pair of matching chairs are easy to arrange or rearrange for guests. Opt for a seating set with a coffee table to place a tray filled with snacks or drinks. Define the seating area with an outdoor rug made from durable, easy-to-clean materials, such as polypropylene or polyester, to ensure it stays fresh through any type of weather – rain or shine. Add a patio umbrella above your seating area to keep guests comfortable on sunny days. Look for a patio umbrella with helpful features like UV protection and tilt options so that you can adjust it as the day goes on.
An outdoor dining space is a versatile spot for all your backyard entertaining ideas – from outdoor brunches to game nights with the family. Easily add an outdoor dining space by purchasing a dining set. Outdoor-approved materials like wood, metal, or teak are designed to withstand the changing seasons, for a dining set guaranteed to last. When you’re ready to eat, set the table with brightly-colored outdoor dinnerware. Use outdoor serving trays to make bringing food from the kitchen to the table easy – and cleanup even easier.
Make your yard the most talked-about hotspot in town with a well-positioned bar cart that allows guests to serve themselves. Top the bar cart with a set of drink pitchers or a drink dispenser. A two-sided drink dispenser makes serving even simpler – just fill up each side with ice and add your favorite beverages. Place a set of glasses on the lower level of the bar cart for easy access.
Keep the conversations going after the sun sets with a fire pit. Fire pits are ideal for brisk summer nights or enjoying your patio all year long. They add the perfect ambience and warmth for entertaining in your backyard. Remember to leave at least 30" between the edge of the fire pit and your patio furniture for safety. Looking for tips on choosing the right fire pit? Check out our Fire Pit Buying Guide: Find the Best Fire Pit for Your Yard to learn about the different types of fire pits, materials, and features.
From croquet to cornhole, outdoor games are a great way to keep your friends and family entertained all day. Outdoor games are easy to set up and are great for creating new memories. Clear a spot in the yard with enough room for players to spread out. For large parties, it's best to set out a variety of games that are suited for all different ages. Not sure which types of games to pick? Check out our guide Get Moving: Outdoor Games for Kids to find some fun ideas to get you started.
Make your guests feel welcome by turning your patio into a natural extension of your home. Patio decor is an easy way to upgrade the space and make it feel like your own. Add a pile of throw pillows on top of the outdoor sofa for extra comfort and color – choose throw pillows made of outdoor performance materials that are fade- and moisture-resistant. This will keep the colors and patterns bright all season. Place planters throughout the seating area to create an outdoor oasis. Outdoor planters filled with potted plants bring the right amount of greenery to freshen up the space.
Looking for a way to upgrade your outdoor entertaining space? Try placing a pergola to define a seating area or keep an outdoor dining space covered. Pergolas are outdoor structures that combine wide-open sides and a slatted roof for the perfect balance of indoor comfort and outdoor beauty. Select a shaded pergola to keep the seating area out of the sun, or opt for a slatted-roof pergola for an open-air feel. If you're interested in more pergola inspiration, check out our guide Can't-Miss Pergola Ideas.
Don't let the sunset cut the party short – keep the night going with bright backyard lighting that brings a cheerful, welcoming ambiance to your outdoor entertaining. We love how string lights add soft overhead lighting that illuminates the whole patio. Choose a string of globe lights for a classic look, or opt for Edison bulbs to incorporate a bit of retro flair. Add small outdoor lanterns to supplement the string lights. We recommend using flameless LED candles in the lanterns for a long-lasting and realistic flicker without having to worry about the candles melting or getting blown out.
Making s’mores is the epitome of a great backyard party, so give your guests the chance to roast their marshmallows in a camplike setting! Place Adirondack chairs around a firepit with roasting sticks to mimic a campsite in a fun and comfortable way.
Enjoy the most out of your backyard by incorporating a fence or privacy screen around the edge of your yard. If you live close to neighbors or want extra privacy from prying eyes, a fence or privacy screen can give you the security you’re after without disrupting your neighbor’s space.
Boost your outdoor environment by using planters to house live plants. Live plants give off natural chemicals said to decrease stress and comfort those around them. The dark green hues of your live plants can make your space feel more earthy and welcoming, while artful planters serve as simple decor staples.
There’s nothing more soothing than the sound of running water. Elevate your backyard entertaining by placing a waterfall fountain in your yard or on your patio to wow (and relax) your guests! Fountains with several tiers like in the picture above will need to be placed within reach of an electrical outlet to work. You can also select one that has a light feature to create an even more warming ambience!
Give your guests the joy of a pool party this summer. Beat the heat and stay refreshed with a swimming pool or hot tub in your backyard! A backyard pool gives you and your guests the chance to enjoy some water time in a private environment for a fun backyard party.
Show off your cooking skills with your grill and/or luxurious outdoor kitchen! Grilled food tastes so much better thanks to the amino acids that are broken down in grilled proteins, and outdoor kitchens bring countertop space, cabinets, and a sink outdoors to prepare a nice meal in the fresh air.
Don’t let wind or the heat disrupt your backyard party ideas – combat them with a patio umbrella! Patio umbrellas are very versatile since they can be moved to any location, whether you want it above your table, in the yard, or over your lounge chairs.
Pesky mosquitos aren’t invited to this backyard party. Lighting a few citronella candles or tiki torches around the yard and tables can help keep the bugs away since the citronella scent is a natural deterrent.
Tip!
To learn more ways to stay bug-free when entertaining, read our guide: How to Keep Mosquitoes Away for the Perfect Summer.
17. Host an Outdoor Movie Night Under the Stars
Take advantage of warm summer nights by screening your favorite films outdoors. Using an outdoor projection screen and a projector, you can create the ultimate movie night and invite your friends and family to join in. Don't forget to add the cozy seating and freshly popped popcorn.
Tip!
Read our guide 20 Fun Outdoor Movie Night Ideas to find more inspo.
18. Set Up a Warm Outdoor Dining Table
Start conversations with your guests by setting the scene at a cozy table. Use candles to light up the table and cast a warm glow in their candle holders before adding a few table vases to decorate the scene. Being playful with your table’s centerpiece can make your guests feel comfortable and welcome as you enjoy a nice night outdoors.
Everyone knows great backyard entertaining ideas start with a drink! Mix together a refreshing cocktail or beverage for your guests to sip on while you finish cooking. Protect the longevity of your glasses by using outdoor drinkware and beverage serveware since these items are made with durable plastic that will not break like glass.
Outdoor dinnerware is designed to be more durable and is made with a tougher plastic. Having a set of festive outdoor dinnerware can save your indoor plates in case one drops on the ground. Most outdoor tableware use bright blues, pinks, or yellows with their patterns to add a finishing touch to your outside meal. Don’t forget to include outdoor serving platters (made with the same strong plastic material) to serve delicious family-style meals outdoors!
