Creative Outdoor Event Ideas
You’ve decided to have an outdoor event, yay! But how can you make it special and unique? Are there elements that make it stand out from your average event or even your average indoor event? What ideas will help you maximize the outdoor atmosphere? We have the scoop!
Now that more people are prioritizing time outdoors — a trend that has grown by more than 3% annually — taking events outdoors has also grown in popularity. To help yours stand out, here are our most creative outdoor event ideas.
First and Foremost, Survey Your Guests Pre-Event
Not every outdoor event will suit every host and their guests. That’s why many hosts have started sending pre-event entertainment surveys to their guests to inspire outdoor activities. This can include a combination of predetermined activities for the guest to choose and suggestions for activities they would like to see present at the event.
The most votes and suggestions win, and your guests experience an unforgettable time under the sun and stars. Just make sure the event activities match up with the weather!
Related: How to Host the Perfect Party Whatever the Weather
Move the Theater Outside
Moving the unique theater experience outdoors has been popular for decades now, evidenced by the success of trends like drive-ins, backyard projector movies, and outdoor cinemas in weather-permitting areas nationwide. Research found that drive-in movies alone have seen a boost in interest and traffic from all generations, including 66% of Gen Z, 64% of Millennials, 56% of Gen X, and 45% of Baby Boomers.
So, what’s the draw? Your outdoor event can bring guests together for a classic film under the stars or a highly anticipated new release. Add in movie must-haves like popcorn, movie theater candy (Twizzlers, M&Ms, Skittles, Reese’s Pieces, Butterfinger Bites, and more), and drinks for a more elevated experience!
Offer Planting/Gardening Classes
Did you know that more than half (55%) of American households have become interested in gardening activities in the last few years? This fun fact will make your outdoor event a hit, especially if you’re aiming for a more bohemian-style theme. Not only is it a great way to help your guests mingle and get to know each other, but it’s an excellent place for them to get tips on successful planting and helping the environment.
Environmental concerns have quickly moved front and center in how we operate and conduct business, run our households, and complete day-to-day tasks. As a result, planting and gardening can also make for a great experience at your outdoor events. Host a gathering that is both informative and an entertaining activity for guests to participate in.
Have a Picnic!
Whether you have guests bring their blankets or supply them at the event, offering a picnic-style food menu and setting is one of the unique ways to feed all your guests. It brings everyone closer to intimate discussions and the perfect ‘outdoorsy’ atmosphere. This is a great way to free up space outside for guests to truly enjoy the outdoors, as it will require significantly fewer tables and chairs to take up space.
With that in mind, you should still have tables and chairs scattered throughout the outdoor venue for those who prefer sitting a little higher up (particularly those who would have a more challenging time getting down on the ground and back up).
Related: What to Look for in Outdoor Party Venues in Austin
Host a Field Day
Field Day is most popularly known as an end-of-the-year school event for students. It’s full of exciting outdoor games and activities that bring students together for teamwork and fun. And the event idea is not exclusive to students! Everyone at your event will enjoy one or more classic outdoor games like three-legged race, side-walk chalking, sack racing, obstacle courses, ring toss, and more.
You can even add more everyday outdoor activities like cornhole, foursquare (there’s also a volleyball equivalent), ladder toss, and giant Jenga. Not only will this creative outdoor event idea bring more nostalgia to your guests’ experience and make it more memorable, but it will break the ice and encourage people to work together and make new friends.
Select a Venue that Can Accommodate All of Your Unique Outdoor Event Needs
The venue you choose to host your unique and exciting outdoor event can change everything. After all, the success of your event and the creative ideas you’ve come up with depends on the space that hosts it all. When you host at Vuka, you can choose between two exclusive venues in Austin, equipped with everything from audio/visual equipment (i.e., a projector, microphone, soundboard, and speakers) to tables and chairs and a space for kitchen prep or catering. Reach out to our team to get started!
