Outdoor hosting ideas for match day gatherings
Set the stage for garden hosting on match days.
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Date published: April 2026 | By Steven Smith
Make the most of the sun with a pre- or post-match garden party and turn the big match into a summer social gathering. From garden furniture to outdoor cooking, and extra seating, Argos has you covered.
Host the perfect match day garden party
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Comfortable seating for everyone
Make sure there’s plenty of seating for everyone to watch the match outdoors. Garden chairs and sun loungers offer relaxed seating options for small groups. They’re a fantastic option allowing flexibility as you can place them wherever you like. You can position them to easily see all of the action and they’re comfortable enough for extra time. Sofa sets offer a communal seating area for anywhere from 3 to 8 people. Many come with a small table for added practicality and come in a variety of configurations like sofa and chairs, L-shape sofas and customisable set ups.
For relaxed, informal seating arrangements, bean bags and outdoor cushions make a fun way to add extra seating to your outdoor gatherings.
Create social dining spaces outdoors
Get your guests mingling by setting up communal spaces for outdoor dining. A large garden table is a great choice for buffet style dining where everyone can come together to fill up a plate without missing any of the action. Smaller tables and patio sets dotted around your garden offer places to set down your drinks and come together in small groups while enjoying a bite.
Stock up on serving bowls and platters so snacks and light bites can be placed around your garden on small tables, and ensure you have plenty of dinnerware for guests when the grill’s hard at work. Wipe clean tablecloths will add a touch of character to your tables and make clean up after the final whistle a breeze.
Keep the crowd fed with BBQs and outdoor pizza ovens
Whether you’re getting everyone together before the big game, watching the game outdoors or keeping the celebrations going, outdoor dining is always a winner. Fire up the barbecue for classic fan favourites like lamb kebabs and chilli-lime barbecued sweetcorn or go for something a little different with an outdoor pizza oven. It’s an al fresco dining twist that’s sure to be a crowd pleaser. And don’t forget to finish your barbecue with a sweet treat like this grilled twist on a dessert favourite like this barbecue banana split.
Get your garden set for an evening of football no matter the weather
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Watch the big match outdoors
There are plenty of ways to enjoy the football and still make the most of the weather outside. Set up a screen and projector and you and your guests will be enjoying the game as well as the al fresco dining and summer vibes! Grab a smart TV stick, connect up your laptop or stream from your smart phone to enjoy the big game in your garden. In a pinch, you could even set up your TV outdoors if the weather is nice enough! Add wireless speakers to your setup so everyone can hear that all-important commentary, or to bring some music to the party.
Keep the celebrations going with outdoor lighting
Make the most of your garden and enjoy the evening matches and post-game celebrations with your guests with our range of outdoor lighting. Use solar lights to border paths and accent flower beds and walls. String and fairy lights are great for running along fences, under gazebos and turning large hedges or small trees into nighttime centrepieces.
Don’t let the Great British Summer ruin the party
Nothing screams barbecue season like a sudden summer downpour, but don’t let that stop you from enjoying the football outside. Put up a gazebo to provide shade from the sun or shelter from the rain. It might get bit cooler in the evening, so lay out some blankets for your guests, or even set up a fire pit for everyone to gather around.
Match day garden parties FAQs
What are the best foods to serve at a garden party?
Barbecued foods are a classic – grilled food coupled with the opportunity to socialise while cooking make them a winner. Add in a fresh salad and plenty of finger food nibbles, along with cold beer, chilled wine and summery cocktails to make sure your party is a real hit! You could even lighten the load by ordering all of your party food from Occassions by Sainsbury's.
When should a garden party end?
There are noise laws that mean loud music and power tools shouldn’t be used between 11pm and 7am, so consider these when hosting. Most of all, be considerate of your neighbours – perhaps talk to those who might be affected ahead of time or even extend them an invite!
How can I make my garden party a success?
The obvious things are to make sure you have plenty of seating, food and drink for everyone. Entertainment will also go a long way to making your get together memorable. But plan ahead, consider shade and shelter from sun (or rain), and patio heaters or blankets in case it turns cooler.
What are some fun garden party activities?
Outdoor games can be fun for guests of all ages. Think hoop toss, giant chess, giant Jenga or if you have the space for it, water fights! Bluetooth speakers are also handy to bring some background music to the garden. Just keep in mind how much noise or disturbance your activities might cause for your neighbours.
How can I make hosting a match day garden party easier?
Go for finger food laid out buffet style so guests can go and help themselves any time. Pre-prepare as much of it as you can before hand. Have coolers with drinks set out ready, and set your garden up in areas - think socialising, eating and watching the game. If you're showing the match outside, test your tech ahead of time to keep everyone happy. Make sure you get your shade and cover in place so you're ready no matter what the weather brings.
