How to Host a Festival-Style Summer Party (No Wristband Required)
Music festivals are magical! Just not always as comfortable. Between waiting 40 minutes for fries, your phone dying at 2%, and navigating questionable portaloos, they’re not exactly a luxury retreat.
But somehow, none of that matters when the sun sets, the bass drops, and you’re dancing in a sea of happy strangers, singing your favourite lyrics out loud with people you’ve just met.
With the summer slowly approaching, we’ve put together a few tips to help you bring the festival vibe to your home and throw your very own festival-style summer party for your friends.
Backyard, rooftop, local park, the location doesn’t matter as long as the playlist slaps and your crew is glowing.
The Playlist Is the Headliner
Curate a lineup of bangers that bounce between genres, whether it is throwback R&B, chill indie, summer reggaeton, or whatever gets your group moving all night.
For bonus points, ask each guest to contribute a few songs to a shared playlist before the party. It’s democratic, fun and surprising.
Hot tip: Print a QR code to your playlist and tape it to your cooler for extra style points.
The Festival Fuel
Keep it simple! Fun snacks that travel well, such as fruit skewers, popcorn in paper cones, chips and guac, DIY nachos, and maybe a signature drink like a pink lemonade spritz.
Keep a cooler full of canned cocktails and sparkling water to stay hydrated and hype.
Set the Stage
Hang fairy lights, lay down some picnic blankets, and set up a speaker. Throw in a couple of foldable chairs, bring out the disco ball if you’ve got one, and boom, instant festival grounds.
Hot tip: Add glow sticks or a DIY wristband station to really set the scene at the door if you’re feeling extra.
Glam On-the-Go
Every good festival has a bit of glitter and glam, and your party should be no exception.
Create a “Glow up” Station where guests can refresh or add some sparkle. Think temporary tattoos, mini mirrors, and face jewels.
Hot tip: Prep gift bags for your guests with cute, practical summer goodies such as Dermacol blotting papers, a mini mineral water mist by Avène, lip gloss from Smashbox Cosmetics, tiny SPF tubes from Skin79, NYX glitter for face and body, and a reusable hand fan. They’ll feel absolutely spoiled.
Come As Your Festival Alter Ego
Set a loose dress code to make the occasion even more fun. Go for themes like “retro rave,” “boho vibes,” or “main-stage chic”, so guests can go all in or just show up comfy. It’s not about pressure, it’s about freedom.
Mic Drop
Whether your “stage” is a balcony, backyard or a local park, the real magic of a summer party comes down to the music, the mood, and the people.
So crank the volume, snack with abandon, and dance like you’re front row at your favourite set. Because this summer, you make the lineup.
