Hosting an outdoor event during the winter months can be
very complicated. Outdoor winter events are often fun, memorable, and exciting.
Of course, with the temperatures falling and the chance for snow imminent in
much of the country, outdoor events must be approached the correct way. We’ve
got some tips for how to handle the crowds and the festivities.
1.
Bonfires are a great focal point for any outdoor
winter event. They’re cheery and above all, warm. If you plan to have bonfires
at an event, make sure you take the proper precautions. The fire must be kept
at a safe level, and you should have a barrier between the flames and the
attendees. If you choose not to do this, make sure someone is monitoring the
fire at all times, especially with children around.
2.
Serve warm food for crowds. No one wants ice
cream when it’s below freezing outside. Plus, many warm foods that are common
in winter are easy to store and keep warm with the right equipment. Soups,
stews, and chili are all popular in the colder months and can be made in large
quantities before the event even begins.
3.
Don’t stop at hot foods. Hot drinks are a great
way to warm a guest to their core. Hot chocolate, apple cider, and hot tea are
all great hot drinks you can make for an event.
4.
To keep your guests even warmer, invest in a
tent along with tent heaters. A tent will provide some extra shelter from the
cold and wind (and sometimes snow). Tent heaters allow you to have a warm area
that guests can take refuge in.
5.
Be sure you have enough warm areas to accommodate
the crowds at your events. Having one bonfire when you expect hundreds of
guests is not sufficient. Pay attention to the projected attendance and plan
accordingly.
6.
Make sure to make the venue safe before the
event begins. In winter it is common for there to be snow and ice on the
ground. This should be cleared as much as possible before the event so your
guests will be safe.
7.
Keep a close eye on the weather reports. Winter
weather is very unpredictable. Snow, ice, sleet, and freezing temperatures can make
your event unsafe. Keep the lines of communication open with your guests.
8.
Make sure your event is well lit. This seems
fairly basic, but you must keep in mind that in winter it gets dark sooner than
you might expect. There’s many creative ways you can light an event. Try
candles, fairy lights, and more!
9.
Have an accessory stand for guests that did not
come prepared for cold temperatures. It’s easy to forget a scarf or gloves when
you are in a rush. Having a small stock of emergency supplies for your guests
goes a long way. Great selections include gloves, scarves, hats, and hand/toe
warmers. Anything not used can be saved or donated to a homeless shelter after
the event.
10.
Embrace it! Chances are if you’re having an
event outdoors in winter, it’s for a reason. Have fun with the theme and the
planning!
It’s important to keep the crowds happy at your event.
Follow these tips and you’ll be closer to doing so!
