How to Throw an Epic Outdoor Party as a Renter: 6 Cool Ideas

The season of outdoor gatherings has officially begun. Do you love hosting parties but feel limited by your lack of outdoor space? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Many renters face the same challenge of finding a suitable place to entertain their guests outside. But don’t let that stop you from throwing an epic outdoor party that everyone will remember.

Here are some ideas on how to make the most of any location, whether it’s in or out of your apartment building or community. We also included tips and reminders to help you stay safe and respect your neighbors.

Rooftop

If your building has a rooftop terrace or garden, you’re in luck. This is a great spot to enjoy the views, the breeze and the stars. You can set up some tables and chairs, bring some snacks and drinks and play some music. Just make sure you have permission from your landlord or management, and respect the noise level and hours of operation.

Balcony

If you have a balcony, even a small one, you can turn it into a cozy and intimate party space. You can decorate it with string lights and lanterns, candles, plants and cushions. You can also use a portable grill or a fondue set to cook some delicious food for your guests.

Another great idea for hot summer days is an ice cream feast. Buy some popular flavors and provide an array of toppings that your guests will definitely enjoy. You won’t need a lot of space for this type of get-together, so a balcony and the adjacent room will work fine. Just be careful not to drop anything down from the balcony or cause any fire hazards.

Courtyard

If your apartment complex has a common courtyard or lawn, you can use it as a party venue. All you need to do is bring some blankets, pillows and picnic baskets and there you have it: a relaxing, casual gathering. You can also play some games like frisbee, cornhole or badminton.

Many common courtyards also have barbecue areas, which is a great plus on sunny days: you can cook something fresh and delicious all the while engaging with your guests — how about sharing recipes or tips and tricks as the burgers sizzle away? Just make sure you clean up after yourself and don’t disturb the neighbors.

Pool area

If your community has a pool and your guest list is mostly made up of your neighbors, this is definitely a great option. Usually, ground rules state that you are only allowed to bring a couple of outside guests to use the pool, but there are no restrictions for those living there with you. This should speed up the process of creating a guest list. You could bring floaties and maybe some cool drinks in safe cups to enjoy in between swimming sessions.

Park

Want to have a gathering away from your building? How about a nearby park or green space? You can rent a pavilion or a gazebo, or just find a shady spot under a tree. You can bring some decorations that can be easily removed, coolers, speakers and games and have a fun and festive party. Just remember to follow the park rules and regulations and don’t leave any trash behind.

Beach

If you live near the coast, you can take advantage of the beach as a party destination. What better place to have some fun in the summer? Bring some umbrellas, beach towels and chairs and that’s it! Just enjoy the sun, sand and water. You can also have a bonfire, roast some marshmallows and tell some stories. However, be aware of the tide, the weather and the wildlife.

There are many ways to throw an epic outdoor party as a renter, even if you don’t have a backyard or a spacious apartment. You just need to be creative, flexible and respectful of your surroundings. So go ahead and plan your next outdoor party and have a blast with your friends!