How to stay cool when hosting outside in summer – 6 expert summer tips

Hosting outside in summer is a wonderful way to celebrate the season with friends and family, but soaring temperatures can sometimes make it difficult to stay cool and comfortable.

While we could move to host indoors, it would be a waste of the beautiful sunshine and fresh air. So, how do you and your guests stay cool when hosting outside in summer?

We spoke to hosting experts who shared their practical and creative approaches to staying cool at a summer yard party.

How to stay cool when hosting outside

Whether you are preparing a small backyard for summer hosting, or are ready to throw a big pool bash, these six summer hosting tips are the best way to help you keep your cool and beat the heat.

1. Create shaded spots

While some time out in the sun is good fun, it is important to create some patio shade in your yard to offer guests some respite, says Julianna McIntosh, hosting expert and Cutwater mixologist:

‘Creating shaded areas is a must. I recommend using large umbrellas or pop-up tents to provide ample cover. Setting up comfortable seating areas under the shade with cozy cushions and fans can help guests stay cool and relaxed,’ she adds.

Whether a gazebo or a patio umbrella is best for you and your space will largely depend on the size of your space and your gathering, but either offers ample cool shade.

2. Combine indoor and outdoor hosting

If the shade is not enough, you could combine indoor and outdoor hosting by opening up doors to create places of rest bite for your guests, adds Dawna Pitts, hosting expert and author of Entertaining is my Love Language, available at Amazon:

‘I live in very sunny Paradise Valley, Arizona, so oftentimes I hold the “mingling hour” (the beginning forty-five minutes to an hour) inside, and then, after the sun has set enough, I love taking the party outside for comfortable dining without the sun beating down,’ she shares.

When mixing indoor and outdoor spaces, be sure to prepare a kitchen for hosting by keeping a kitchen cool and laying out lots of cool drinks and snacks for guests to help themselves when they are sheltering from the sun.

3. Pick the menu carefully

A seasonal summer party calls for a seasonal summer menu. Cassie LaMere, founder and creative director of the luxury event planning company Cassie LaMere Events, recommends choosing chilled or frozen food and beverage items:

‘There are so many creative ice cubes, cocktail garnishes, and dessert treats that can complement a summer evening al fresco. Serve beverages in mint julep cups with shaved ice that hold onto their cooling effect even in peak heat, or have glassware in a freezer so it presents frosted.’

‘For me, serving refreshing drinks is essential,’ continues Julianna McIntosh, hosting expert and mixologist. ‘I love suggesting Cutwater's canned cocktails – not only are they easy to serve and keep guests cool, but they are as good as a handmade cocktail. You can even personalize it with make-ahead infused ice cubes. These ice cubes can be made by freezing a beautiful garnish, like an edible flower, adding an extra layer of fun to your drinks.

‘This may seem weird, but freezing fruit is a game changer,’ Julianna adds. ‘It's a trick I use when going to the beach – it helps when it's a really warm day to cool down with ice-cold fruit to snack on (watermelon spears are my favorite for this)! These small touches can make a big difference in keeping everyone comfortable during outdoor gatherings.'

4. Use portable cooling units

Shade will certainly help to create some cool outdoor spots, but on a humid day, it might not be enough. This is why Frank Clemente, senior experience architect and design strategist at hosting professionals FrankLynn Visual Marketing, suggests investing in some portable cooling units:

‘Enhance guest comfort with portable air cooling units. These units are easy to set up, plug into standard outlets, and provide a burst of cold air with a fine mist of water,’ he explains. ‘They're perfect for maintaining a comfortable temperature during outdoor festivities, ensuring everyone can relax and enjoy the experience.'

5. Suggest the color theme light

Light color schemes do more than set the mood for a summer party, they can help to trick the brain into feeling cooler too, Frank Clemente, senior experience architect, continues. A soft summer color palette is ideal for a subtle theme.

‘Encourage guests to wear light-colored clothing to help stay cool. Consider suggesting a pastel color palette or even an all-white dress code for a refreshing and stylish atmosphere. Guests love participating in themed attire, which adds to the fun and cooling effect of the event.’

6. Appeal to all the senses

Similarly, you can feel cooler and less overwhelmed by heat if you appeal to all of your senses. With taste and visuals covered, that means making a home smell nice for summer and putting on some soothing summer sounds to help guests feel relaxed, Cassie LaMere, hosting expert, advises:

‘Seasoned event planners know the key to a successful event is tapping into the power of engaging all of the senses. If you want to convey coolness, consider how you can translate that energy into the sight, smell, taste, touch, and sound of your gathering. For example, saltwater or eucalyptus scents are refreshing and soothing,’ she suggests. ‘Then, keep the playlist soothing with ocean waves or yacht rock, both will transport you to on-the-water instant chill vibes.’

Hosting an outdoor event in the summer doesn't have to be a sweltering ordeal. Keeping you and your guests cool and collected can be as simple as following these six summary tips – no matter what the mercury reads. The key to a successful summer party is careful preparation and a few creative touches that make all the difference.