Looking to level up your summer get-together? Whether you’re planning for friends, colleagues, or clients, we’ve rounded up our favourite summer party ideas to help you host an unforgettable event. From fun themes to creative activities, this is your go-to inspiration guide.
Summer Party Ideas You Must Try This Summer!
There’s no one way to throw a summer party, but there are plenty of creative directions to take. These summer party themes suit all vibes, from laid-back to luxe.
1. Garden Parties
Elegant yet easy-going, garden parties are a classic choice. Think blooming florals, flowing drinks, and garden games in the sunshine. Venues like The Sunken Garden at Chiswick House & Gardens make the perfect backdrop for this kind of al fresco celebration.
2. Tropical Luau
Transport your guests to the islands with leis, tiki torches, exotic cocktails, and bright colours. It’s a vibrant theme perfect for evening events.
3. Rooftop Sunset Soirée
Pair city views with sunset vibes, music, and cocktails. It’s ideal for after-work networking events or stylish celebrations. Spaces like Events @ No.6 give you that unbeatable London skyline moment.
4. Mediterranean Escape
Channel Greek summer with blue-and-white decor, mezze platters, and coastal sounds. A relaxing, sun-soaked setting.
5. All-White Party
Effortlessly chic. Ask guests to dress in white for a clean, elegant palette. Add soft lighting and signature drinks for a luxe feel.
6. Sports Day Throwback
Get competitive with a nostalgia-fuelled day of races, tug-of-war, and egg-and-spoon challenges. Great for team building.
7. Vintage Picnic
Blankets, hampers, polaroids—bring back retro charm with a relaxed picnic-style setup, ideal for parks or private lawns.
8. Festival Vibes
Mini Glasto, anyone? Set up a tent, live music, and face painting for a full-on festival feel… wellies optional!
9. Coastal Chic
Perfect for venues near the river or with water views. Think striped deckchairs, seafood stations, and Aperol Spritz.
10. BBQ & Beers Bash
Keep it casual with sizzling BBQ favourites, ice-cold drinks, and a summer playlist. Easy, crowd-pleasing, and fun – especially at spots like RCP London Events, where you can enjoy both beautiful settings and hearty menus.
Got the inspo? Now all you need is a place to host it all. We’ve got you, check out our summer party venues in London.
Fun and Creative Summer Party Activities
Whatever your theme, the right activities will take your party to the next level. Here are some crowd favourites to consider:
1. Giant Jenga
A classic party hit, watch as guests get hilariously competitive.
2. DIY Photo Booth
Set up a backdrop and props for people to snap and share memories. Instant fun and perfect for brandable events too.
3. Lawn Games
Boules, croquet, ring toss, great for mixing and mingling.
4. Cocktail (or Mocktail) Masterclass
Bring in a pro and teach your guests how to mix something delicious.
5. Mini Scavenger Hunt
Perfect for team bonding. Add prizes or clues tailored to your company or theme.
6. Ice Cream or Dessert Stations
Interactive and indulgent. Guests can customise their treat and cool down at the same time.
7. Live Music or DJ
Set the tone and get the party moving. Whether it’s chill background music or dancefloor energy, live music adds magic.
8. Craft Corners (for kids or adults!)
From flower crowns to custom candles, creative stations add a thoughtful touch.
Looking to reduce your event’s footprint? We’ve rounded up clever ways to keep it stylish and sustainable in our earth-friendly summer party guide.
Summer Party Planning Tips
A little forward planning means a lot less stress on the day. Here’s how to keep things running smoothly:
- Start with your budget: Set a clear budget and prioritise what matters most – venue, food, entertainment?
- Nail your guest list: Get RSVPs early and account for plus-ones or dietary needs.
- Choose your venue wisely: Whether it’s a hidden garden or rooftop terrace, find a space that suits your theme. Our tips for choosing a venue will help.
- Plan for the weather: Have a contingency plan for rain or heatwaves. Ask your venue!
- Create a timeline: Outline what’s happening and when, this keeps suppliers and staff aligned.
Stress-Free Venue Hire with eve
Whatever kind of summer party you’re planning, we’ve got the perfect space. At eve, we connect you with London’s most iconic, unique, and character-filled venues – from rooftop terraces to leafy courtyards and grand historic halls.
Our team takes care of the tricky stuff, site visits, supplier coordination, logistics, so you can focus on the fun bits. Whether it’s an intimate garden soirée or a corporate summer bash, we make it happen.
Ready to explore? Check out our full range of venues.
Final Thoughts
Your summer celebration should be effortless, exciting, and entirely you. With the right theme, activities, and venue, it’ll be a day (or night) to remember.
If you’re still looking for the perfect way to pull everything together, speak to one of our eve team to get your event planning started.