30+ Ideas for Hosting a Sustainable Party

Are you wanting to plan a party that’s big on fun but low on waste?

We hear you. That’s why we’re serving up sustainable party ideas that prove you don’t need balloons and single-use plastic to have a good time.

Whether it’s a children’s birthday party, backyard BBQ, or Sunday picnic, here’s how to make your next celebration memorable with no landfill guilt the next day.

How to Plan a Low-Waste Celebration

Reusable > Disposable

Let’s start with the essentials. Skip the single-use plastic plates and bowls, and check if your local library or toy library lends out a reusable party kit. Often, these community kits contain a full set of tableware that is dishwasher safe, ready for the next person to use.

When it comes to cutlery, opt for reusable stainless steel or bamboo cutlery sets. Roll them up in fabric napkins for easy handling (and a super cute table setup).

If you need extras, borrow from your friends and family or a local buy-swap-sell site.

If you must use single-use items, look for compostable options. Palm leaf plates and sugarcane pulp bowls are sturdy, stylish and break down easily.

When it comes to drinks, serve water and juice in large jugs or dispensers rather than handing out plastic bottles or cans.

The Artisan Bakery Bar Melbourne Food and Wine Festival 2015 Queensbridge Square Southbank 9

Sustainable Style: Decorations That Last

Say goodbye to balloons and glitter, and hello to reusable bunting, fabric streamers and nature-inspired centrepieces.

Think fresh flowers, leafy branches, or even a bowl of fruit or vegetables as a colourful table feature. Upcycled jars make excellent vases!

For a handmade feel, paper chains or woollen pom-poms are great alternatives to plastic decorations.

DIY confetti made from hole-punched leaves or old newspaper adds a fun touch without the mess – get the kids involved in making it!

Create a soft, sparkly ambience with LED or solar-powered lights.

Need signage? Reuse cardboard or invest in reusable chalkboard signs. Don’t bother with those fancy custom acrylic signs that you’ll only use once.

For large-scale decorations, investigate party hire companies to see what they offer.

Food, Glorious Local Food

Choose locally sourced, seasonal food to reduce packaging and transport emissions.

Serve snacks in bulk bowls instead of individual packets, and go big with drink dispensers to avoid plastic waste.

There always seem to be leftovers at parties, so set up a “leftover station” and encourage guests to bring containers so nothing goes to waste. Not only is this better for the environment, but your friends will love the takeaway treats.

Games That Don’t End up in the Bin

For activities and games, think reusable and imaginative rather than complex and wasteful.

Here are some ideas:

Set up an upcycled craft station with recycled paper, cardboard, fabric scraps and glue. Kids can create decorations, toys or art to take home.
Borrow toys or games from your local toy library.
Classic low-waste games like musical chairs, nature scavenger hunts and treasure hunts are always a hit.
For pass-the-parcel, use newspaper or scrap fabric instead of new wrapping.