When the weather warms up and the sun starts to shine, it’s time to take the family fun outdoors!
Whether you’re planning a back garden gathering, a family picnic, or simply want to make the most of your outdoor space, having a range of entertainment options can ensure that everyone has a great time. From classic games to a relaxing movie night, here are eight ideas for family friendly outdoor entertaining:
1. Host a Picnic:
An easy and low cost way to make the most of the outdoors and warm weather is to host a picnic in your garden, or if you lack the space to invite everyone over or you want to make it more convenient, you can arrange to meet up in a nearby park.
Encourage guests to bring along a few dishes to share, and set up picnic blankets or tables for dining al fresco. Don’t forget to pack some outdoor family-friendly games like frisbee or a football for after the picnic.
And – of course – a few bottles of wine to share!
2. Play Some Games:
Party games are a must for any family gathering!
Giant Jenga or huge chess board is a great way to get families having fun. A ring toss is an easy one to DIY if you have wood and rope handy. Other family friendly lawn games include croquet and giant noughts and crosses. Combine with a picnic or barbecue for a great day.
3. Have a Live Music Garden Party:
If you have the space, you can turn your garden into a venue for live music. Maybe you are a keen musician, or you know some who’d love to play for a crowd; however if you don’t then you can hire a local musician or band to perform.
Set up some seating areas, and let the music fill the air. Add solar string lights or lanterns for added ambiance as the sun starts to set, but make sure you warn the neighbours about this kind of thing first!
4. Amaze With a Stargazing Party:
If you’d prefer something more adult, a romantic option for a clear night; why not gaze up at the night sky and marvel at the beauty of the stars during a stargazing party. Set up telescopes or binoculars for closer views, and bring along a guidebook or a special star gazing app to help identify constellations and planets above. A hammock with a stand is a great way to relax and watch the stars, but remember blankets and don’t forget to bring snacks and beverages to enjoy while you stargaze.
5. Hold a Barbecue:
Barbecues are synonymous with the great outdoors; who can resist a cheeky burger or sausage cooked on an outside grill?
Make sure you cater for everyone; vegetarians, fish and meat eaters alike by checking with your guests before the big day. If you’re an accomplished chef, a large piece of seasoned and slow barbecued meat such as pork can be absolutely amazing. Offer baps alongside to complete the meal. Often in the spring and summer months, supermarkets will have great deals on pre-prepared meats you can simply put straight on the barbecue. If you don’t want to spend time catering (or worry that you’ll burn everything!), then there are various companies out there who can do that bit for you to save you the hassle.
6. Create an Outdoor Cinema:
It’s actually really easy to transform your back garden into a cosy outdoor cinema! All you need is a projector (and you can get these quite cheaply online!), a portable screen (or simply a large white bedsheet), and some comfy seating like hammocks. Invite your friends and family over, put some popcorn on the stove, and enjoy watching a family friendly film under the stars.
Ask people to bring their own seats, blankets and pillows if you don’t have enough. The hardest part will be trying to agree on what to watch!
7. Set up a Nature Scavenger Hunt:
Explore the great outdoors with a nature scavenger hunt. This is a great one for kids and family groups, simply create a list of items for participants to find, such as pinecones, wild flowers, bugs or certain types of leaves. Provide each person or team with a checklist and set them loose to discover the wonders of nature (and take photographs of their finds) in your garden or a nearby park.
8. Go Crazy With a Water Fun Day:
Another one that’s popular with kids and adults alike to beat the heat is a water fun day! Get everyone to pack swimming costumes and towels and get wet! No pool? No matter! Set up sprinklers, water balloons, and a slip ‘n slide for some refreshing water play. You can also fill up kiddie pools or inflatable water slides for added excitement.
Whatever you do, don’t forget sun cream, and plenty of hydration to stay cool and safe under the sun.