Sunset Sessions: Guide to Hosting a Sunset Party: Celebrating the Summer Sky

There’s nothing quite like a Minnesota sunset after a day spent outside with amazing company. That is why for this blog we dive into a new party theme for the season! Let’s celebrate the insane beauty of the evening skies: a sunset party to never forget. Whether you’re hosting a sunset party on a downtown rooftop or a beach bonfire, the goal is to create an unforgettable experience that transitions day into night with the backdrop of awe inspiring colors. We’ve gathered all our ideas and compiled them for you, so let’s dive into the evening that perfectly captures the essence of summer.

The History of Summer Parties

Midsummer parties, celebrated around the summer solstice, have deep roots in various cultures worldwide. Originating from ancient pagan traditions, these festivities mark the longest day of the year and the triumph of light over darkness. In Scandinavian countries, Midsummer is a major celebration involving maypole dancing, bonfires, and feasting, symbolizing fertility and the growth of crops. In Latvia, "Jāņi" includes singing folk songs and jumping over fires. Similarly, in Lithuania, "Rasos" features rituals to ensure a bountiful harvest. These celebrations often reflect a blend of ancient customs and modern festivities, emphasizing community, nature, and the joy of summer. Consider weaving in some traditional elements into your party if it feels appropriate!

Choose the Perfect Setting

Romantic Tailgate Night

Transform your pick-up truck or hatchback into a cozy sunset viewing spot. Line the cargo space with comfy blankets and cushions, and create a snug environment with string lights.

Pick up your beloved and park at a spot with a clear view of the sunset and the magic will unfold all by itself.

Scenic Lookout Picnic

Pack a selection of tapas and drinks like a box of wine or case of Gigli and head to a beautiful lookout point. Bring a portable table, some folding chairs or blankets to sit on, and a Bluetooth speaker for soft, ambient music. Make sure to bring hammocks or blankets to lay on and enjoy the view. Our personal favorites in Minneapolis are “the monument” on East River Parkway, Lake Harriet’s south beach, and the “witch's hat tower” in Prospect Park in NE. 

Beach Bonfire

There's something magical about a beach bonfire. Set up your spot with beach blankets, pillows, and lanterns. Be sure to bring some citronella candles or coils and bug spray to stay comfortable! As the sun dips below the horizon, the bonfire will keep the party warm and the vibes high.

Sunset Cruise Party

If you have access to a boat, a sunset cruise party is an awesome way to celebrate summer nights. Cruising a river and docking at restaurants and beaches gives you such a feeling of freedom and allows you to move to the perfect spot, and that might just be cruising by as the sun sinks behind the trees. 

Rooftop Gathering

A sunset rooftop party offers a spectacular view of the city and the sunset. A lot of apartments have party rooms on the roof, some even with a pool. Check with your friends and see if anyone has access! String lights, cozy seating, and a small bar area will set the perfect ambiance. You can also just take over a couple tables at a rooftop bar like Brits Pub in downtown and be totally taken care of!

Garden Party

Transform your garden into a sunset paradise with fairy lights, tea lanterns, and comfortable seating under pergolas or on a patio. Prepare snacks and cocktail and mocktail drinks with seasonal ingredients or inspired by the colors of the sun and wow your friends!

Set the Mood with Decor and Lighting

String Lights and Lanterns

No sunset party is complete without the soft, twinkling glow of string lights and lanterns. They not only provide light as the sun sets but also add a touch of magic to the atmosphere.

Themed Decor

Tailor your decor to match the setting. For a romantic tailgate evening, think rustic and cozy with blankets and pillows. For a beach bonfire, go for a boho-chic vibe with patterned throws and lanterns. While a garden party could be whimsical and floral, think fairies and gnomes.

Comfortable Seating

Ensure there's plenty of comfortable seating for guests to relax and enjoy the sunset. Bean bags, outdoor sofas, and even hammocks can add to the laid-back vibe. If nothing else, laying down blankets will be enough and encourage coziness. 

Curate the Perfect Playlist

Music sets the tone for your sunset party. Create a playlist that starts with soft, mellow tunes and gradually builds to more upbeat tracks as the evening progresses. Think acoustic sets, indie tunes, and classic American summer hits. As the night falls, transition to more danceable tracks to keep the energy high, or choose to go with more mellow music to really sink into the summer high.

Delight with Food and Drinks

Tapas and Small Bites

Finger foods and small bites are perfect for a sunset party. They’re easy to eat and can be prepared in advance. Consider a variety of tapas, such as patatas bravas, chorizo, manchego cheese, olives, and bruschetta.

Signature Cocktails

Create a signature cocktail that complements the sunset theme, or find ready made cocktails. Think refreshing and colorful drinks like a sunset sangria, THC infused blood orange margarita, or a non-alcoholic orange sunset mocktail with layers of fruit juices.

Bonfire Treats

For a beach bonfire, have supplies ready for s'mores, cause what is a fire without them. You could also go for some healthier variations on these wood-fired treats like foil apple crisp, grilled pineapple, or banana boats.

Plan Engaging Activities

Outdoor Movie Screening

Once the sun sets, keep the entertainment going with an outdoor movie screening. Set up a projector and a white sheet or portable screen. Provide blankets and popcorn for a cozy cinema experience under the stars.

Stargazing

Take advantage of the clear summer skies with a stargazing session. Break out your old telescope, or even just a pair of binoculars can show you the moon in stunning detail. Perhaps download a few star chart apps and identify astrological constellations.

Capture the Memories

Photo Booth

Set up a photo booth with props that match your sunset theme. Think sun hats, sunglasses, and beach balls for a beach party, or floral crowns and fairy wings for a garden party.

Polaroid Cameras

Scatter a few Polaroid or disposable cameras around the venue so guests can snap instant photos. It’s a fun way to capture memories, and guests can take the photos home as souvenirs.

Before You Start Planning Your Party

A sunset theme party is a beautiful way to celebrate the long, lazy days of summer and the enchanting beauty of the evening sky. Whether you choose a scenic lookout, beach bonfire, or garden as your venue, the key is to create an inviting and celebratory atmosphere with thoughtful decor, lighting, music, food, and activities. As the sun sets and the sky transforms into a canvas of colors, your guests will revel in the magic of the moment, making it an evening to remember.