As the university year kicks off across Australia, students are returning to campuses, whether for their first year or as experienced students of university life. The start of a new academic year brings with it an exciting sense of anticipation, new beginnings and endless possibilities for socialising, learning and creating lifelong memories.
A great way to connect with fellow students, make new friendships and have fun is by hosting or attending university parties. Finding a unique party venue with an interesting and engaging activity is sure to set the tone for the year.
University Party Ideas
Here are some creative and engaging university party ideas to help begin the semester.
Welcome BBQ
A great way to start the new year is with a laid-back and welcoming BBQ. Perfect for university campuses that boast great outdoor spaces, a BBQ event is an excellent icebreaker for both new and returning students.
Most people love a good barbie, so not only is the food sure to please, but casual outdoor activities like frisbee, volleyball or a giant game of Jenga can provide perfect opportunities to interact and forge new friendships.
This type of event encourages a relaxed atmosphere, making it easier for people to mingle without the stress of formal introductions. Students from different years or courses can easily bond over a shared meal and casual games.
Theme Parties
Theme parties are always a hit and they offer a chance to get creative with costumes and party décor. You can easily adapt this type of event to fit the start of the semester. Some fun theme ideas include:
- 90s Party: Perfect for reliving the classics and embracing nostalgia. Come dressed in your best 90s attire and play music from that era to get the party vibe flowing.
- Around the World Party: Celebrate cultural diversity by encouraging students to represent different countries with their outfits and food. This is a fantastic way to meet new people and learn about each other’s backgrounds while having a great time.
- Hollywood: Ask guests to come dressed as their favourite film star or movie character, which is a great way to spark conversation.
Mini Golf in the Dark
If you’re after some excitement and lots of laughs, then a round of mini golf is the perfect way to spend time with your uni buddies. What The Putt offers a distinctive venue with a unique 27-hole mini golf course. Open late, try mini golf in the dark, with a vibrant atmosphere, great food and a well-stocked bar – get set for a night of fun!
Not only is there a bar and mini golf, but there are also arcade games, table games and pool tables so you can continue your night of fun and games. The venue can host large or small groups, and the game is ideal for all skill levels – everyone loves mini golf!
Pub Crawl
A traditional uni favourite, the pub crawl is a classic event that helps students get to know their local area and discover the best venues for nightlife. You can organize a pub crawl through your nearby bars and pubs, which could include special student discounts or drink specials for the group.
The great thing about a pub crawl is the ease of meeting people across a larger group. Everyone will have a chance to mingle and chat as the group moves from one venue to the next. It’s a great option for students who are new to the city and want to explore local nightlife while making friends along the way.
Game Night
A game night is a wonderful way to bond with new friends over friendly competition and laughter. Board games, card games, or even video games are a great way to break the ice and engage with others. You could host this event in a dorm, student flat or university common area, providing a casual setting where students can gather without the pressure of large crowds.
Popular choices for game night might include classics like Monopoly, Scrabble or Cards Against Humanity, or even fun group games like Charades. These games are fantastic for interaction and collaboration. In addition to traditional games, you could include a trivia quiz based on Australian culture, university life or pop culture to get everyone participating.
Outdoor Movie Night
Hosting an outdoor movie night can be a fun and relaxing way to bring students together. You can project a popular movie or TV show on a large screen or even set up a projector in a common area or backyard. Providing popcorn and maybe a few cosy blankets or beanbags will make for a chilled-out evening that encourages mingling and socialising.
This type of event is great for those who prefer a low-pressure way to meet people, as it provides a more laid-back atmosphere compared to an event with a party atmosphere. Sharing your thoughts about the movie afterward can help initiate new conversations and connections.
Speed Friending Event
Another idea that steers away from a classic party atmosphere is a speed friending event which is a great way for students to meet new people quickly and efficiently. Similar to speed dating, this event encourages short, timed interactions with multiple people. Organisers can provide conversation starters or games as icebreakers.
A speed friending event can help students who might feel shy or anxious about traditional party environments. It’s ideal for those who want to focus on making deep and meaningful connections rather than just having a casual chat in a large crowd.
Scavenger Hunt
Designing a scavenger hunt around your uni campus or the town is a brilliant way to explore your surroundings, especially for new students. Uncovering clues and solving puzzles will encourage people to interact and work together to navigate the process.
Include some historical facts or locations so students learn things they might not otherwise know, about the places they are about to spend a lot of time in during the coming year. Hide some goodies to be found for incentive and watch the friendly competition and laughter as the hunt unfolds.
Karaoke Night
Everyone loves a good karaoke session, and it’s an excellent way to relax and share laughs with fellow students. You don’t have to be a great singer because karaoke is all about having fun and not taking yourself too seriously. Whether it’s a small group or a larger crowd, this party idea brings students together through music and shared hilarity.
Karaoke nights can be held in student bars, dorms or rented spaces, making them a versatile option for students across all campuses. Perhaps you can organise a fun competition, where the best singer or funniest performance wins a prize.
Charity Fundraiser Party
Hosting a charity fundraiser party can be a wonderful way to give back while meeting new people. Many students enjoy the idea of contributing to a good cause, and the atmosphere of a charity event fosters a sense of community.
Whether you’re supporting a local charity, a cause related to education or something more global, it will encourage students to work together and build relationships while having a positive impact. You can raise money through entry fees, auctions, raffles or donation-based activities.
University parties and social events are the perfect way to start the year, make lasting friendships and build connections that will help students navigate the academic year. Whether you’re hosting a laid-back BBQ, a themed party, or hitting the putting greens, these events provide opportunities for students to bond and build meaningful relationships that will enhance their overall university experience.
What The Putt is a unique party venue, and their staff have the experience to help you arrange an unforgettable university party for your group. Give them a call with any questions or make a booking online.
