Whether someone’s starting uni, moving house, or heading off on their travels, throwing a leaving party is a great way to get everyone together before they go. But if you’ve never hosted a going away party before, you’re probably wondering where to even begin.
From chilled get-togethers you plan for yourself to full-on surprise celebrations, we’ve rounded up a bunch of ideas fit for friends, family members, and coworkers. We’ve also included some food, décor and games ideas too!
Going away party ideas for friends
If your best mate has decided to head off on their travels or they’re moving to a new city to study, it’s only right you plan a celebration to say farewell. Here are a few of our favourite party ideas for pals who are leaving.
1. Destination-themed party
A destination-themed party is perfect for people moving abroad or travelling, and you can have lots of fun with the décor, drinks, playlist and dress code. If they’re travelling to Australia, we’re thinking Aussie flag bunting, inflatable kangaroos and crocodiles, and cork hats and surf gear for outfits. Just take inspiration from wherever they’re going!
2. Escape room
If you’re feeling a little bit sad about leaving, there’s nothing quite like being locked in a room with no obvious way out to distract you… There are also a bunch of different escape room themes to choose from, including horror, murder mystery, and wizardry and magic. Pick something that’ll suit the group and get it booked.
3. Games night
Another fun one for friends is to dig out the board games and host a games night. All you’ll need to do is stock up on snacks and drinks (we’re thinking cinema style or sharing platters) and settle in for a night of friendly competition. And if you’ve got a bigger group, feel free to split into teams and make it into a mini tournament.
Going away party ideas for family
For a family going away party, you might be looking for something a bit more chilled? If that’s the case, here are a few laid-back (but super fun) options.
1. Garden get-together
If the weather’s nice, why not invite everyone over for a sunny BBQ party? This is an easy way to get the whole family together, and it gives the person who’s leaving plenty of time to chat with everyone and say goodbye. Here’s a quick list of what you might need:
- Burgers, veggie options, salads and drinks
- Outdoor seating including chairs and picnic blankets
- Garden games to keep everyone entertained
- Outdoor décor like bunting, fairy lights, and balloons
2. ‘Taste of home’ party
This one’s especially good if they’re moving abroad. Create a little celebration at home around all the things they’ll miss, like their favourite snacks, nostalgic childhood meals and even unique family traditions. You could also ask people to contribute handwritten recipes and make them into a book they can take with them.
3. Family day out
If a traditional farewell party isn’t your style, why not plan a fun day out together instead? Go on a trip to the beach, do a countryside walk, or there’s always the option of a theme park if you’d prefer something adventurous. A family adventure is a great way to make some new memories before they leave.
Leaving party ideas for coworkers
If your coworker’s got a new job or they’re leaving for a different adventure, it’s definitely worth hosting a celebration to let them know they’ll be missed.
1. Team dinner
If you’re looking for a super easy option, you could head out for a team dinner after work. Let the person who’s leaving choose their favourite spot, book a table big enough for everyone, and enjoy the evening away from the usual work chats.
2. Karaoke night
What’s funnier than watching your coworker who confidently presents to clients grab the microphone to belt out Dancing Queen? A karaoke night is a brilliant way to celebrate whoever’s leaving and give everyone a chance to say (or sing) their farewells. While it might be slightly embarrassing for everyone who has to return to the office on Monday, it’s guaranteed to create some fun memories.
3. Breakfast send-off
If you’re struggling to get everyone together after work, you could start their final day with a big team breakfast. Just bring in a selection of breakfast treats then invite the whole team to catch up. For a thoughtful touch, add the go-to coffee order of the person who’s leaving.
Going away party game ideas
While you won’t need games at every type of celebration, it’s a good idea to have a few to hand if you’re hosting at home. Here’s our pick of some of the best leaving party games:
- How well do you know them? Put everyone’s friendship credentials to the test and create a quiz all about the person leaving.
- Who said it? Ask guests to submit funny quotes or inside jokes before the party, then read them out and see if you can guess who said them.
- Treasure hunt: Hide travel essentials around (sunglasses, suncream, flipflops), then split into teams and see who can pack their suitcase first!
- Pin the destination: A leaving party twist on the classic game, blindfold guests and see who can pin the destination on the map.
- Pass the parcel: Add dares, questions and memories under each layer instead of sweets!
Leaving somewhere and starting a new chapter is always a bit of a mixed bag, but a good party is the perfect way to lean into the excitement. Whether you’re throwing a party for yourself or planning a surprise for a friend, hopefully these ideas have given you lots of inspiration. All that’s left to do now is pick your fave.
Oh, and one last thing, don’t forget the leaving card. The party will come and go but a card filled with messages is something they’ll treasure:
Speaking of messages, feel free to check out our guide on what to write in a leaving card too. We’ve also pulled together some insights on how to keep in touch with long distance friends and how to help a friend move house!
