Putting Greens News & Blog

How to Throw a Backyard Putting Green Party

Tuesday, October 17th, 2006

With a little ingenuity, your backyard putting green can provide a lot more than a place to work on your short game. Your prized artificial turf can also serve as your home’s entertainment centerpiece. So, next time you entertain, turn off the television and keep the party outside on the course. A backyard putting green party is a great idea for the grown-ups or even a children’s birthday party. Besides, you are proud of your new synthetic putting green and it’s time to show it off.

First things first, you should start with a fun golf-themed invitation. Develop a scorecard for your putting green and print the party information on the back. Though guests might be encouraged to bring their own sleeve of balls or putter (BYOP, if you will), you will have already supplied a necessary component and created a little competitive zeal in the process. If you are feeling extra crafty, create a folding card by attaching a square of artificial turf to the invitation.

Regarding the theme and décor of the event, keep it classy like the country club if you wish, but there is certainly no harm incorporating an island or beach theme. Simple flourishes with tropical flowers and well-chosen party favors could give the party a relaxed atmosphere (and take some of the bite off those missed four-footers).

For the cuisine, consider something along the lines of ‘surf and turf’ for your bash. If you want to keep the barbeque closed for the evening, stick with some freshly prepared fish and shrimp served with saffron rice and a salad with hearts of palm and a light citrus vinaigrette. There are also plenty of flavorful drinks (alcoholic or not) to accompany such a menu.
Returning to golf, you should certainly try to develop a nine or 18-hole layout beforehand to prevent any later disagreement. Mark off the holes as best you can and draw a map of each hole, if possible. Assuming you will be participating in the putting competition, create holes that will challenge you as well as your guests. Handicap the competition if necessary, but let like skill levels play together as much as possible. Consider providing some fun, affordable prizes to the winners – something worth competing for, but not worth fighting over.
Follow some of these simple ideas, add your own personal touches and your guests are guaranteed a great evening at the putting green.