Hosting Outdoor Charity Events During a Heatwave
Summer can be a brilliant time to bring people together.
Outdoor events can feel more relaxed, more open and more informal than a traditional meeting room. They can give people space to talk, connect and enjoy a different kind of environment. For charities, CICs, community organisations and local partners, that can make networking feel more natural and welcoming.
But when temperatures rise, outdoor events also need a little more thought.
With our next Charity Hub networking event taking place on Thursday 13 August at Cusworth Hall, we are looking forward to creating a summer event with a slightly more outdoorsy feel where possible. At the same time, we are aware that the weather is expected to be very warm, so comfort and care will be important throughout the morning.
Planning Around People
When hosting events in hot weather, the most important thing is to think about the people attending.
That includes guests, speakers, staff, volunteers and anyone helping behind the scenes. Warm weather can affect people in different ways, so small decisions can make a big difference to how comfortable and safe people feel.
For charities and community groups, this is especially important. Many events are supported by small teams, volunteers and people already balancing busy workloads. Making the event feel manageable helps everyone take part more comfortably.
Shade, Water and Space Matter
When the weather is hot, the basics become more important.
Access to water, shade and regular breaks can help people feel more comfortable during the event. It is also worth thinking about whether parts of the event can be more flexible, whether people have somewhere cooler to step away if needed, and how the pace of the morning can be kept relaxed.
For outdoor or partly outdoor events, communication also matters. Letting attendees know what to expect helps them prepare properly. A simple reminder to bring water, suncream, a hat or light clothing can make the day easier for everyone.
Keeping the Event Purpose Clear
Even when the weather changes how an event feels, the purpose can stay the same.
Our August Charity Hub event is still about connection, conversation, collaboration and shared learning. It is about bringing charities, CICs, community organisations, businesses, suppliers and local partners together to understand more about each other’s work and explore where support may be possible.
The summer setting simply gives us a different way to do that.
A more relaxed environment can help people talk more openly, ask questions and build relationships in a way that feels less formal. For the third sector, those conversations matter because they can lead to referrals, partnerships, shared knowledge and future support.
Looking After Each Other
Hot weather is a reminder that events are not just about schedules and speakers. They are about people.
Checking in with one another, being patient, taking breaks and making sensible choices all help create a better event experience.
If someone needs to step into shade, pause for water or take a moment away from the sun, that should feel easy and normal. A good event is not one where everyone pushes through discomfort. It is one where people feel welcome, included and looked after.
Join Us at Cusworth Hall
Our next Charity Hub networking event takes place on Thursday 13 August at Cusworth Hall, Doncaster.
We will be joined by Inner Sunshine, who will be sharing more about their work around wellbeing, creativity, family support and community connection.
The Charity Hub networking events are proudly sponsored by Stride Yorkshire, whose support helps us keep these events free and accessible for charities, CICs, community groups, businesses and local partners.
If you are attending, please plan for warm weather. Bring water, wear suitable clothing, consider suncream and take care of yourself throughout the morning.
If you would like to join us, you can book your free place here:
