One of the best things about summer is outdoor parties. Whether you’re planning a cookout with neighbors and friends, a casual get-together around a bonfire, or an upscale outdoor dinner party, your outdoor summer party will be a success with the right planning. Let’s take a look at a few outdoor summer party checklists to help you prepare.
Your Outdoor Summer Party Checklists
First, what type of party are you planning? And how many guests will you have? What will you serve? There’s a few important questions to answer first before you start getting all your items together.
- How many guests will you have?
- What type of food and drinks will you enjoy?
- Where will your party be located?
- What if it rains?
- Will you have protection against bugs?
With these questions answered, you’ll be able to change or amend these lists in a way that works best for you.
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Cookout Checklist
One of the most popular types of outdoor summer parties is a cookout. As you’re planning your cookout, consider your guests’ preferences as well as standard items, like chairs and tables. Consider, for example, whether any of your guests are vegetarian or gluten-free, or if they have food allergies.
It’s also helpful to consider the weather, such as what you’ll do if it rains or how you’ll keep your guests cool in extreme heat. Make sure you have plenty of ice for your beverages, so your guests can stay cool and hydrated. Depending on how long your party lasts and how many guests you have, it’s a good idea to have at least a couple bags of ice on-hand.
- Tables
- Chairs
- Cooler(s)
- Ice
- Grill
- Charcoal or gas tank
- Lighter
- Tin foil
- Grill tools: tongs, spatula, grill brush, thermometer
- Food: burgers, hotdogs, buns, salad or other sides, dessert, fruit plate, veggie plate
- Drinks: Soda, water, alcoholic beverages, lemonade
- Condiments: Ketchup, mustard, relish, mayonnaise
- Toppings: Lettuce, tomato, onion, cheese
- Serving spoons
- Plates
- Cutlery: Forks, knives, spoons
- Napkins
- Bug spray or citronella candles
- Sunscreen
Optional: Vegetarian food options, umbrella or canopy for sun or rain, picnic blanket, small tables and chairs for children, yard games, paper towels for spills, wet wipes, tablecloths, containers for leftovers
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Bonfire Checklist
A bonfire is another great summer party. When the sun sets, you and your guests can relax around a crackling fire, roast marshmallows, and enjoy each other’s company. Use this checklist to prepare for your bonfire and make sure you have everything you need.
As you prepare for your bonfire, remember basic fire safety: have a water source nearby, keep shrubs and other flammable materials away from the fire, and be mindful of local burn ordinances and permit requirements. Check your local weather report as well, and make sure that there are no wildfire dangers or high wind warnings. No one ever plans for a fire to get out of control, but you can plan to stop accidents from getting worse if they happen.
- Chairs
- Tables
- Blankets
- Cooler
- Ice
- Wood
- Lighter
- Paper or other fire starters
- Campfire circle
- Hose or water source to prevent fire incidents
- Marshmallow roasting sticks
- Chocolate
- Graham crackers
- Napkins or paper towels
- Soda, water, alcoholic beverages
- Additional snacks
- Bug repellent
- Candles or other lighting
Optional: Fireworks or sparklers, games or campfire stories, wet wipes, music, flashlights, umbrella or canopy for rain
Outdoor Dinner Party
An outdoor dinner party is a fun and classy way to enjoy the summer. Whether you’re planning a fun and casual party for your close friends or an upscale dinner party for neighbors, colleagues, and friends, this list will help you prepare.
- Chairs
- Table
- Tablecloth
- Plates
- Cups
- Cutlery: forks, knives, spoons
- Napkins
- Food: appetizers, dinner, sides, dessert
- Serving spoons and serving dishes
- Drinks: soda, water, alcoholic beverages, wine
- Cooler
- Ice
- Lighting
- Music
- Bug repellent
Optional: Games, candles, table centerpiece, corkscrew, umbrella or canopy for rain, flashlights
It’s easier to have a great summer party when you have all the things that you need and want. It can be helpful to make a brief list of tasks as well, such as mowing the lawn, making a shopping list, or setting the table. However, there’s no wrong way to host an outdoor summer party, and remember—you can never have too much ice! As long as you and your guests have fun, your party will be a success!
