7 Ways to Throw a Summer Party Without an Actual Backyard

‘Tis the season for partying outdoors. But what to do when you don’t have a proper backyard in which to throw an al fresco bash? Fret not, my patio-deprived friends. There are still plenty of ways to host a stellar summer soiree without an actual backyard. It just takes a little planning and creativity. From picnics at the park to old-school pub-crawls, here are seven ways to throw a stellar summer fete—no backyard necessary.

Who needs a measly backyard when you have a whole dang park to throw your party in? Grab some floor pillows, blankets, Bluetooth speakers, and a cute cooler stocked with your favorite party refreshments, and voila: you’ve officially got an outdoor fete on lock to invite all your loved ones to.

Grass is overrated. With the right décor, you can easily throw a superior summer soiree indoors. Mix a few summer-friendly cocktails with some sunny decorations—inflatable palm trees, a pink flamingo cake, and sunglasses for party favors—and throw a fun outdoor-themed fete inside.

If you’re lucky enough to have a proper front porch, then now’s the time to truly take advantage of it. With little more than a table (for mixing drinks) and some folding chairs, you can assemble a stellar al fresco summer party on your porch or stoop, no yard required.

Don’t have a porch or backyard? No worries. You can still put together a decent soiree in a tiny front lawn or courtyard area. Allow guests to come indoors to mix their choice of drink or whip up a batch cocktail to serve out of a stylish glass jar. This way you can make use of your kitchen space and simply move your guests out front to socialize.

Itching to throw a gorgeous al fresco dinner party but lacking in the patio department? Reserve a table or two in the courtyard of your favorite restaurant and invite all your friends. You can still bring place cards and party favors to personalize the party, but no cooking (or clean up) will be asked of you.

Just because you don’t have a big backyard doesn’t mean you don’t know someone who does. Ask a friend with a decent outdoor area if they’d be willing to lend you their space for an evening—or better yet, to co-host a backyard bash with you—just make it clear you’ll be handling clean up and all the major party costs (including the must-have flamingo floats).

Why limit your summer party to one backyard when you can paint the whole town red with your friends? Research the best bars with outdoor seating in your area and plan an old school pub-crawl for your posse. It’s a great way to explore your city and more importantly, bypass any pre- or post-party cleaning.