How to Keep Guests Cool at a Summer Party, According to Entertaining Experts

Hosting a summer party gives you the perfect opportunity to take advantage of your outdoor space, whether that's by enjoying the day poolside or throwing a backyard barbecue. But the only downside of hosting a get-together in the middle of summer is how hot it can be. High temperatures and the hot afternoon sun can be uncomfortable, whether you have access to the water or not. To keep you and your guests safe and ensure you don't overheat, we're sharing a few effective ways to stay cool during an outdoor party.

Embrace the Shade

Find ways to create shade in your backyard before hosting a summer party. Add umbrellas, set up a gazebo, provide seating under a covered porch, or rent a tent. "Any respite from the sun is welcome," says Brenna Gilbert of Feste. "Make sure you're giving your guests the option to be in the shade, whether under umbrellas, a few well-placed trees, or a leafy pergola."

If you can't add overhead shade to your yard, offer personal sun protection. "Options like umbrellas, parasols, and hand fans can be wonderful additions to keep your guests cool, calm, and collected at an outdoor gathering," says event planner Michelle Norwood.

Use Misters

While the idea of setting up a mister to provide cool, damp air to your guests may sound efficient, this only works at certain types of parties. "Misters are great for a pool party, crawfish boil, or picnic," says Norwood, who advises skipping them for anything more formal. But again, individual options, like the pocket-sized sprays, can be a useful compromise. "They're easy on the makeup and nice for guests to take home," says Gilbert.

Install an Outdoor Ceiling Fan

The best way to get air moving outside is with ceiling fans, though stand-up fans will also work, says Gilbert. "Look up at a tropical hotel—they all have outdoor fans for a reason," she says. One note of caution: "Mind the speed—while it can be tempting to crank it up, you don't want to blow food, décor, or clothes away." Gilbert also recommends offering personal hand fans placed in baskets throughout your backyard. "Not only does it feel genteel, but people feel in control of their own temperature destiny," she says.

Choose Seat Cushions Made From Breathable Fabric

If your outdoor furniture or dining table seating boasts synthetic seat covers, trade them for natural materials that allow better airflow. "There’s a reason why linen, cotton, and seersucker are such a hit in summer wardrobes—they are soft and breathable," says Gilbert. "The same goes for outdoor seating. I steer away from synthetics, plastics, and metals and lean into soft natural wickers, woods, and generous natural throw pillows."

Consider Your Layout

Help guests beat the heat by carefully considering where you place both conversational and dining areas. "While it's nice to keep your resident grill master company, it's hard to be seated directly next to that wood fire on a 90-degree day," says Gilbert. Add seats in shaded areas and near fans, and then turn them to face away from the sun, so guests aren’t shading their eyes in discomfort during your gathering, says Norwood.

Avoid Mid-Afternoon Parties

Unless there's a reason why your party truly needs to take place in the middle of the day, opt for entertaining during a cooler part of the morning or evening. "Hosting an outdoor event at noon in the middle of the summer is not the best idea," says Norwood. "Hosting your gathering later in the day will provide a more pleasant atmosphere for your guests."

Serve Cold Foods and Drinks

Two of the biggest mistakes a host can make at a summer party are offering a too-heavy menu and skimping on the drinks. "On a hazy, hot, and humid day, no one wants a baked lasagna," says Gilbert. "Shift instead to composed, easy summer salads, fun watermelon granita, and cold fried chicken picnics."

Norwood agrees: "If you are planning an outdoor event, keep the food light and easy to eat—two-bite options are your best bet, and add in fruit and Prosecco pop cocktails that are fun and refreshing.” Add self-serve beverage stations for lemonade, iced tea, and, of course, water.