For a close-knit group of friends, rent out a cabin or a couple of glamping tents for a weekend retreat. A grown-up take on summer camp, you can hike along scenic trails during the day, and when the sun sets, gather around the bonfire to swap nostalgic stories while roasting marshmallows and eating s’mores.

Wine Tasting

For the newly engaged couple seeking an elevated experience, indulge in a wine-tasting escapade with picturesque views. (For beer drinkers, a brewery promises an equally enjoyable outing.) Depending on where you live, you can arrange for a tour bus or an organized winery trail for a day of vineyard hopping. And, should you prefer the comfort of your home, simply hire a sommelier for a private wine-tasting session. Just don’t forget the hors d’oeuvres and cheese.

Boat Party

Hit the deck with your fiancé and your favorite crew for a boat engagement party. Planning this event is as easy as chartering a boat in a nearby marina for a fun celebration on the water. Be sure to make sure guests can enjoy sips and nibbles by bringing on catering or hiring an on-board staff to keep the cruise in high spirits.

Bring On the Live Music

Whether you love an intimate concert or a night out dancing, hiring live musicians for your engagement party can absolutely step up your celebration. Take time to find the right artists that can set the tone of your event and have them fill your party venue with the perfect soundtrack for your festivities.

Keep It In the Family

Since a wedding is a joining of two families, why not get your two sides better acquainted by making your engagement party a family reunion? Bring everyone together, either at your own home or a fun destination, where you can make introductions and create closer bonds between your extended family members. Another perk of this style event? Everyone will be a little friendlier by the time they hit the dance floor at your wedding or sit around the table at future holiday dinners.

Carnival Night

Want your guests to do more than just mix and mingle over food? Why not make your engagement party a special carnival night where they can play games, win prizes, and enjoy nostalgic fair treats? To bring this idea to life, you could DIY game booths or even bring in large carnival rentals to transform an outdoor space into the perfect summer night celebration.

Beach Bonfire

Photo: Bring Me Somewhere Nice by Dani Rodriguez