There’s something uniquely special about a summer night in, whether you’re flying solo or spending it with your nearest and dearest. With the sun lingering a little longer and the evenings feeling lighter and warmer, it’s the perfect time to slow down, unwind, and add a little seasonal magic to your night. Whether you’re in the mood for an easy evening with a good book or hosting a relaxed get-together in the garden with your favourite tipple, we’ve rounded up some ideas to help you break the ice and make the most of your summer nights in.
1. Host a Cocktail Tasting Night
If you don’t feel like going on a night out, why not bring the night out to you? Create a DIY mini bar with mixers, spirits, garnishes and of course, lots of ice! A simple idea which means guests can join in and mix their own concoctions. To elevate your night further, you could also create a themed menu with decorations to match, just make sure you stock up on Party Ice to keep the celebrations going all evening long.
2. Create a Cosy Al Fresco Movie Lounge
Set up an outdoor projector, lay out cosy blankets with cushions, and serve themed drinks or cocktails. As an added bonus tip, use a bucket filled with Party Ice to keep the dips for your chips chilled all night long.
3. Serve Chilled Infused Waters
Sometimes the simple added touches make all the difference, add slow-melting Super Cubes into your glass, along with herbs like basil or mint, or even fruits like berries or citrus to instantly elevate your still/ sparkling water. The perfect elegant touch for a refreshing centerpiece which keeps guests hydrated and impressed.
4. Create Your Own ‘Come Dine with Me’
A super fun themed night to do with friends or partners! Have each guest pick a theme, such as Mexican fiesta, Greek mezze, or Japanese izakaya, and craft a dinner party experience to match. For tips on this, you can check out how to pair spicy dishes with delicious cocktails (link)!
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Hold a Summer Games Night
Sometimes the best things in life are completely free! Playing lighthearted games like charades, cards, and trivia is the ideal way to spice up a chilled night in. You could even ask guests to bring along their favourite board game classic – serve some light snacks and chilled drinks and enjoy a night of wholesome fun!
6. Treat Yourself to a DIY Spa Session
Face masks, foot soaks, a glass of rosé with ice and a summer playlist – the epitome of low-key luxury. You could even try an ice facial with our extra-large Super Cubes to cool down after a long hard day and reduce any inflammation. Whether you want to invite friends or go for a solo winddown, nothing leaves you feeling refreshed more than a pamper night!
7. Host a Sunset Picnic
You can’t go wrong with a simple summer picnic! Simply lay out a blanket in your garden, balcony, or even your living room. Fill a basket with summer nibbles – think olives, cheese, fresh bread, and strawberries – and watch the sun go down with good friends and a delicious pitcher.
8. Make Your Own Pizza Night
A hands-on (and potentially messy) activity to spice up any summer night in! Lay out dough bases and a spread of toppings. Everyone builds their own custom pizza, and once your masterpieces are finished, pop some Polar Cube Ice into a glass and enjoy with a chilled glass of wine.
9. Summer Book & Wine Pairing
Perfect for a quiet night by yourself, just pick a good summer read, paired with your favourite wine or mocktail, and curl up outdoors. If you feel like some company, invite friends to do the same and create your own summer book club.
10. Surprise Yourself with a Lucky Dip Night
Write down activities (like “make a cocktail”, “dance break”, “try a face mask”, “watch a short film”) on slips of paper, put them in a jar, and pick at random throughout the evening – this helps spice up any spontaneous summer night in, and keeps your guests guessing on what you have in store!
Find all our favourite drinks recipes to spice up any night in right here, just don’t forget the ice!