Make the most of summer events by following these 8 simple guidelines

NEC Team • July 1, 2024

Summer is the perfect time to host events. With sunny days and high temperatures, people are eager to get outdoors, creating plenty of summertime event opportunities. Planning a summer event, however, can be a challenging endeavor.

Here are 8 simple guidelines to make to the most of your summer event.

banquet tables and chairs for wedding rental

1. Consider The Weather

Summer weather in New York can be unpredictable. Have a backup plan for inclement weather, such as tents, umbrellas, or a rain date. Tents are also a great way to provide shade to guests, keeping them comfortable and safe from excessive sun exposure. Many tent companies, like Preferred Events for example, provide site inspections and consultations to help you decide the best tent options for your event.

tenting for outdoor events

2. Secure Permits Early

If you're planning an outdoor event in a public space, make sure to obtain the necessary permits well in advance. This includes park permits, sound permits, tent permits, and any other required authorizations. It can be difficult to get permission to use these spaces last minute, as they may be booked up already or it may take time to go through the authorization process. Making sure you choose your location and secure permits early is critical to a successful summer event.

Outdoor summer events

3. Offer Refreshments

Remember to keep guests cool and hydrated with plenty of water, refreshing beverages, and summer-themed snacks. Consider having ice cream truck or popsicle stands for a fun touch. Keeping guests happy and healthy will ensure an enjoyable event.

water for outdoor event to stay hydrated

4. Consider The Time of Day

Outdoor events are a great way to make the most of the summer. Day or night, there's always something to do outside while its warm. Keep in mind that the sun goes down much later during the summer so events like outdoor movie's are best held much later in the evening.

Outdoor Movie Night Event

5. Take Advantage of The Space

Summer events are all about wide outdoor spaces. There's plenty of fun event amenities that might not fit into indoor spaces during the colder seasons. Whether it be giant rides, mechanical bulls, or a plethora of other outdoor activities, make sure to use expansive outdoor spaces to your advantage to make the most of your summer event.

Mechanical Bull

6. Provide Seating for Guests

For events at outdoor locations such parks, beaches, or other open areas, it's important to remember to have seating for your guests. Long days out in the sun can be tiresome, therefore it's a must to have a dedicated area for attendees to sit and rest. Shaded lounges are a great way to give people a space to relax and make the most of your summer event! Click here to learn more about event lounge furniture.

Mechanical Bull

7. Have a Cleanup Plan

Outdoor spaces like public parks, lots, fields, or beaches can make great venues for summer events. It's important that these spaces are kept clean so you and others alike can enjoy them. Different locations have different procedures for post-event cleanup so be sure to familiarize yourself with your location's policies. If the location does not provide its own cleanup service, it's worth looking into hiring a third party to handle garbage and anything else guests may leave behind.

Mechanical Bull

8. Hire Professional Help

Depending on the size and complexity of your event, consider hiring an event planner or coordinator to handle logistics, setup, and troubleshooting on the day of the event. This can help take the stress of planning every detail off of your shoulders so that you can focus on making the most of your summer event.


Mechanical Bull

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