From boho picnics to Stargazing: 10 ideas for YOUR end of summer party

As the summer holidays come to an end and everyone returns from their vacation, there's a perfect opportunity savour the warmth of summer and bid it farewell with an unforgettable al fresco party. Whether you're thinking of a small get-together or a big bash, we've got some seriously cool ideas to help you wrap up the season in style.

CELEBRATE UNDER THE CANVAS

When Mother Nature throws her surprises, be prepared with an array of stylish and functional cover options that ensure your outdoor party goes off without a hitch. Enter the classic marquee – a timeless choice that not only provides shade but also adds an elegant touch to your event. With roll-up walls available in a spectrum of colors or even transparent panels, you can tailor the atmosphere to your liking. For a touch of opulence, consider drapings that create a soft and romantic ambiance.

For those embracing a more casual vibe, stretch tents and canopies take center stage. Their organic shapes blend seamlessly with natural surroundings, creating a relaxed atmosphere that's perfect for daytime parties. As the sun filters through the fabric, you're treated to a play of light and shadow that adds depth and character to your gathering.

When your smallest guests are part of the equation, bell tents become a whimsical option that delights young and old alike. These charming structures offer a cozy hideaway for little ones to explore and play, adding an enchanting touch to the festivities.

For those seeking a more intimate setting, transparent PVC bubble tents are a rising trend that infuses your event with a touch of wonder. Imagine a romantic date night under the stars or an intimate dinner party where the celestial canopy becomes your dining companion. Rain or shine, these creative cover options ensure your outdoor party is a success,.

TRANSFORMING THE SPACE

Let festoon or fairy lights weave their magic across the garden, casting a warm and inviting glow that guides guests through the evening. Picture the delicate twinkling of lights suspended above. Whether strung along trees, draped over pergolas, or stretch across the open space of the backyard, these lights transform your space into a haven of beauty and wonder.

For a charming and timeless touch, consider the whimsical allure of bunting. Hang colorful pennant flags that flutter in the breeze, adding a nostalgic vibe to your end-of-summer bash. Bunting can adorn pathways, dangle from gazebos, or embellish the edges of your outdoor seating areas.

For a pop of vibrant color and a touch of whimsy, balloon installations offer a creative and eye-catching decor option. Imagine colorful balloon garlands winding their way around trees, cascading down fences, or framing your house facade. These cheerful accents create a stunning visual impact that transforms your outdoor space into a celebratory wonderland. Set up free-standing balloon installations to serve as captivating photo backdrops, inviting guests to capture and share memories against a backdrop of festive colours.

PICNIC VIBES: GET READY TO DIG IN

Transport your guests to a world of carefree charm with a picnic-style setting that's all about embracing the boho vibe. Low tables adorned with plush cushions and cozy throws create intimate pockets of relaxation where friends can gather, unwind, and bask in the joy of each other's company. Style with pampas grass, woven placemats, natural linen and ceramics to complete boho-chic look.

To amplify the boho magic, consider infusing your picnic haven with Moroccan vibes. Think vibrant colors that pop against the natural backdrop, evoking the richness of exotic lands. Parasols adorned with tassels and beads offer both shade and a touch of whimsy, casting intricate patterns of light that dance with the breeze. It's an ambiance that invites you to revel in the sensory delights of a faraway world, right in your own backyard.

Say goodbye to traditional picnic snacks and say hello to a grazing table that's a feast for the senses. Indulge in an array of fresh fruits and veggies, bursting with color and flavour. Add to the spread a medley of artisanal cheeses and carefully curated charcuterie, offering a tantalising journey of tastes and textures. And to satisfy your sweet cravings, imagine an assortment of delectable bites that range from pastries to delightful confections. This creative take on traditional picnic transforms your gathering into a true reflection of the boho elegance that defines your end-of-summer affair.

SIP AND SAVOUR

Raise your glasses to an unforgettable summer celebration, made even more vibrant with a mobile bar that brings the art of mixology right to your backyard. Imagine sipping on refreshing cocktails that embody the essence of the season – think zesty citrus infusions, fruity fusions, and cool concoctions that transport your taste buds to sun-soaked paradises.

But it's not just about the drinks – presentation takes centre stage. Your guests will love bubbles filled with a wispy smoke that drifts lazily into the air. Or perhaps you'd prefer the dramatic allure of dry ice, where cocktails are transformed into swirling, smoky elixirs that awaken the senses. And let's not forget the enchantment of color-changing potions, where a sip is like embarking on a journey of flavor and visual delight. With creative presentation at play, each cocktail becomes a work of art that ignites curiosity and elevates the entire party experience.

Taking the festivities up a notch are flair bartenders, who are not only masters of mixing but also entertainers in their own right. Picture a bartender who effortlessly juggles bottles, spins shakers, and performs mesmerising tricks, all while crafting the perfect drink. From the first sip to the final flourish, a mobile bar creates an immersive and interactive element that ensures your end-of-summer party is an affair to remember.

FROM FLAME TO FLAVOUR

Elevate your outdoor gathering with a hearty BBQ spread that's bound to satisfy every palate. Think succulent meats kissed by the flames, smoky flavors that linger on your taste buds, and a relaxed atmosphere that encourages good company and conversation. From classic burgers and sausages to juicy ribs and marinated chicken, a BBQ feast brings a sense of warmth and togetherness to your end-of-summer soirée.

For those seeking a unique twist on the BBQ experience, consider the Argentinian Asado BBQ. This culinary tradition infuses your event with the spirit of South America, offering an array of grilled meats cooked to perfection over an open flame. From melt-in-your-mouth beef cuts to flavorful sausages and lamb, an Asado brings a rich tapestry of flavors that pay homage to the art of grilling.

As the guest list grows, consider the grandeur of roasting stations, with options like a tender lamb roast or a hearty hog roast stealing the spotlight. These stations become the centerpiece of your celebration, not only tantalizing taste buds but also creating a captivating visual spectacle. The slow-roasted meats, with their crispy exteriors and tender interiors, become a conversation starter and a focal point that embodies the essence of a true outdoor feast.

FOOD ON WHEELS

Elevate your end-of-summer gathering with an array of mouthwatering food trucks, bringing the vibrant spirit of a trendy food festival right to your backyard. Think spicy tacos, French crepe delights, a comforting noodle bar, and the indulgence of lobster rolls, all rucks serving up flavours that redefine outdoor dining.

For cozier spaces, food tricycles and carts step in with options like waffle creations, juicy burgers, and classic hotdogs, offering a delightful and diverse menu to please every guest. Complete your culinary journey with classic treats that resonate with summer nostalgia. An ice cream station invites you to indulge in a range of flavors and toppings, while a popcorn cart adds a touch of timeless charm. And who could resist the whimsy of a candy floss machine, turning sugar into delicate, fluffy confections that capture the magic of the season?

These food trucks, carts, and treats infuse your celebration with a sense of festivity, ensuring that your end-of-summer bash is a feast to remember.

ACTIVITIES FOR EVERYONE

Keep the energy high with activities that cater to all ages. Kids can revel in the delight of a novel bubble house with dozens of balloons being blown into the air all around them. They would also love a bouncy playground, with castles, slides, obstacle courses and more inflatable gems to play in and around. We've got a giant ballpit too, cause who said that only the youngest ones can enjoying playing in the balls.

Adults can channel their creativity in a summer flower-making workshop: whether you want to create flower crowns, seasonal wreaths, or vase arrangements, our florist will guide you through the workshop and help you learn more about the florals of the season. Alternatively, we can host a candle making workshop - perfect accessory to meet longer autumn nights with, or have a terrarium making class.

As the night unfolds, the rhythm of a DJ's beats invites everyone to dance beneath the stars.

EXTRAVAGANT EXTRAS

Prepare for a backyard bash that transcends the ordinary – think unique extras that promise an evening of nonstop entertainment. Picture this: an outdoor cinema under the stars, where an inflatable screen casts cinematic magic, and soft seating beckons you to unwind. As the silver screen comes to life, you're enveloped in a world of stories and laughter, creating an unforgettable atmosphere that pairs the enchantment of movies with the charm of the outdoors.

But the fun doesn't stop there. Imagine transforming your backyard into a vibrant roller rink, complete with roller skate rentals and skilled dancers to guide your every glide. With a groovy DJ curating an infectious beat, you'll find yourself effortlessly grooving along, discovering hidden dance moves and relishing the spirit of the night. It's a fusion of retro cool and modern energy, an unexpected twist that infuses your gathering with unforgettable vibrancy.

For those seeking a thrill, why not add a go-karting track to the mix? As the engines rev and the racetrack beckons, friends and family can challenge each other in a friendly competition, vying for the coveted top spot on the leaderboard. The exhilaration of speed and skill converges, creating an atmosphere of camaraderie and excitement. As the winners are celebrated, you'll realize that your backyard has transformed into a thrilling arena, where every twist and turn adds another layer of shared memories.

With each unique addition, your backyard party becomes a one-of-a-kind experience, an opportunity to create lasting memories under the open sky.

STARGAZING LOUNGE

It's a well-know fact that August and September present some of the best stargazing opportunities of the year. Embrace the beauty of the night sky by creating a cozy stargazing lounge. Lay out comfortable seating options like bean bags, blankets, and cushions. Set up telescopes and binoculars for guests to observe celestial wonders, and provide star maps or astronomy guides to enhance the experience.

As the evening unfolds, engage an astronomy expert to lead a stargazing session, pointing out constellations, planets, and shooting stars. Don't worry about the poor weather conditions, too: we've got a portable planetarium as a perfect alternative. The large black-out inflatable dome can be installed in any garden, with a range of video content and guided programmes available for you to enjoy. Explore the universe from the comfort of your own home and get out to try and spot a few of the stars and planets you'll learn about.

GRAND FINALE

Prepare to be captivated as the sun sets on summer, for your end-of-summer party is about to culminate in a mesmerizing display of pyrotechnic marvels. Picture this: the night sky adorned with bursts of vibrant colors and dazzling lights, synchronized perfectly to a choreographed musical soundtrack. With skilled professionals at the helm, your celebration can embrace the magic of a fireworks display that seamlessly dances to the rhythm of your favorite tunes.

But that's not all – the world of pyrotechnics offers an array of enchanting possibilities. Imagine a cold fireworks showcase, where you're treated to breathtaking visual effects that gracefully shimmer without the heat.

Or perhaps you'd like to introduce the artistry of lancework, where intricate designs and words are elegantly drawn in flames on the backdrop the night canvas. It can be a great way to share a personalized message with your loved ones or surprise your guests with a cheeky phrase. These pyrotechnic touches don't just illuminate the sky; they add an extraordinary dimension to your farewell to summer, making it an unforgettable experience for all.
Take this chance to embrace the beauty of summer's end. These ideas will help you create a party that captures the essence of the season and the joy of being together.

Need help with any element of it? Our party planners are here to help with everything from tents and catering to entertainment and logistics of your event so you can relax.

Read more
Blog: Interactive Entertainment Ideas
When it comes to hosting a remarkable event, interactive entertainment is the secret ingredient that can take it to the next level. Let us share with you some fantastic interactive entertainment ideas that will turn your event into a unique immersive experience.
Blog: Ins and Outs of Picnics
You can turn a picnic into an elegant soiree, a romantic night, or a fun-filled girls night: the choice is yours. We are here with some ideas and inspirations for you're the ultimate party!