Outdoor Party Venues for Rent in Chicago, IL

Are you planning a summer party, looking for a lovely outdoor space for your wedding reception or throwing a birthday picnic? Whatever the occasion, there are plenty of outdoor venues in Chicago that are ready and willing to welcome you and your guests.

How can I make my outdoor party a sweeping success?

No two occasions are the same, but there are some general party matters you should consider regardless of the type of celebration you’re planning.

• Pick a unique location. The key to throwing a memorable party is choosing the perfect location. It’s not just a pretty background, but an integral part of the celebration. It should be a place that matches the vibe of your party and a place where you and your guests can feel comfortable. Luckily, you don’t have to look far to find an amazing outdoor venue in Chicago. Depending on what kind of event you’re planning, you can choose from an array of charming beer gardens, rooftop terraces with sweeping views and intimate patios, as well as beautiful parks and picnic spots by the lake.

• Make sure your chosen venue has all the necessary amenities. Think about all the things you’re going to require to run your event. For example, if you’d like to play some music, you’re going to need a sound system or at least a bluetooth speaker. If your party will be taking place after sundown, you’ll need lighting, be it candles, fairy lights or solar lamps. If it’s early spring or late fall, perhaps you’d also like to have some heaters to keep you warm and comfortable. If you’re booking a venue such as a restaurant’s patio or beer garden, most of these details should be taken care of. However, always check what amenities the venue offers and whether they’re included in the rental fee.

• Set the mood with decorations. The majority of outdoor venues are already beautiful on their own, with the surrounding scenery, verdant plants and city views, so you don’t really need to do much in terms of decorating. But if you want to add a few personal touches, feel free to do so! (After you get a green light from the right authorities, of course.) Bunting, garlands, banners – they can all transform the space into party central. Tip: try to be environmentally friendly. Instead of choosing decorations that you will dispose of straight after the party, find something you’ll be able to use more than once. Or maybe ask if any of your friends or family members have something that could go with the theme of your party to avoid buying new items. Last but not least, always remember to clean up after yourself.

• Take care of the food and drinks. What’s a celebration without snacks and fun beverages? A pizza party, barbecue or a traditional al fresco dinner – your options in Chicago are endless! In terms of organization, the matter is quite simple when you’re renting an outdoor space that belongs to a pub or a restaurant. In most cases, you just have to pick a menu and you’re ready to go. If your venue does not offer on-site catering, you’ll have to take care of that part yourself. You can book external vendors (food carts or food trucks, anyone?) or have a potluck and let your guests contribute their favorite dishes.

• Plan some party activities. If you want to beef up your party and make it a truly unforgettable experience, think about some fun activities to do with your guests. You can bring out a board game, organize a trivia quiz or play a simple game of charades. Or maybe you just want to dance? If so, make sure there’s enough space at the venue for an improvised dance floor. Another party classic is a photo booth. Not only is it fun to play around with different props and strike fun poses, it also leaves you with something to look back on and remember the amazing time you had at the party.

Things to consider when hosting a party outdoors

Outdoor parties are so much fun, but bear in mind that they also take some extra planning. Here are some of the most important things to remember:

• Check the weather forecast. One of the most important factors when planning an outdoor party is the weather. Unfortunately, it’s also a factor that’s out of your control for the most part. Do what you can: check weather forecasts and try to find the most suitable time for your event. Remember to dress appropriately for the season, wear sunscreen, pack umbrellas, etc.

• Always have a plan B. This ties in with the previous point: you can never fully predict the weather, so do your best to be ready for surprises. For example, check whether your chosen location has a sheltered area, where you and your guests can hide from the rain or shield from too much sun. And in case things really go south, make sure there is an option to move your party inside.

• Make sure you have all the necessary permits. This applies especially if you’re using a public outdoor space, such as a park or a beach. So, before you start planning your party, learn what requirements you need to fulfil and what fees you have to pay. You may need extra permits for things such as using a sound system, putting up a tent, bringing food vendors, etc.