8 Tips for Hosting the Perfect Labor Day Party

Labor Day is just around the bend (Monday, September 5 to be exact) and it’s never too early to start planning a late-summer soiree. Parties can be a lot of work, especially when you’re playing host, so we’re here to help you cover all the bases to make your Labor Day event a success. From subtle décor details to fresh and festive icebreaker activities, here are all the hot tips for putting on the best party of the season.

1. Batch a Cocktail - Mixing one large-batch drink makes the gathering exceptionally delicious and special—which every Labor Day should be. We’re big fans of this Absolut tangy vodka punch or minty Spiced Pear Mojito. You won’t regret the little prep time it requires. 

2. Cook Up One Main Dish - Don’t stress out trying to make a million food options. Just focus on one dish—and do it right. Because so many folks have different dietary needs, we recommend going veggie with this one (you can always have some meaty sides!). Quinoa stuffed peppers are fit for summer or any one of these unreal veggie burgers. Then wash it all down with a sip of that cocktail!

3. Curate Your Invite List - Mixing the crowd with fresh faces and old pals makes for a dynamic party. Use Hoppr by Absolut to find new friends to invite over and celebrate the holiday. With the help of Hoppr by Absolut, the mobile web-app that lets you attend nearby house parties or invite folks over to yours, you can easily plan a Labor Day party that will go down in history.

4. Decorate With a Festive Tablescape - Labor Day is an all-American holiday, so pull out the red, white, and blue. Think navy gingham tablecloths with blush napkins and white plates. Consider putting an American flag bandana on everyone’s sit for them to wear as they eat and drink in festive-bliss.

5. Break Out the Fun & Games - If you can’t afford the custom inflatable water-slide Taylor Swift created for the Fourth of July party, there are still creative ways to make your event memorable and fun. Spice up your party by pulling out some classic board games and adding a twist—truth or dare Jenga, anyone? It’s a sure-fire way to get people introduced without all the awkwardness of small talk.

5. Set Up Some Comfy Seating - We often forget that Labor Day was established to commemorate U.S. workers. In addition to giving thanks to our labor force, it’s a fabulous time to make sure your party seating is comfy and accessible to all. Grab those seat cushions!

7. Rearrange the Room - Depending on how many people you invite, you’re probably going to have to shift some furniture around to make room. Set up smaller tables and chairs to the side so guests can mingle without being in anyone’s way. In a tight city apartment? Try moving coffee tables out of the center of a room to help decongest heavy traffic and open up space for people to move freely.

8. Create a Hit Playlist - Your phone holds a key element for your Labor Day party: your Spotify playlist. Make sure you hit all the musical notes, from Bruce Springsteen’s “Born in the U.S.A.” to Miley Cyrus’ “Party in the U.S.A.” The best way to get to know your new friends? A dance off!