Hosting epic resident events is one of the highlights of serving with Apartment Life, and summer is one of the BEST times to bring people together. With longer days, warm weather, and plenty of sunshine, the right tools can turn a simple gathering into a memorable experience your residents will talk about all year.
These Amazon finds are budget-friendly, versatile, and perfect for creating meaningful connections all season long.
Popcorn Machine for Movie Nights and More
Nothing beats the smell of fresh popcorn to draw a crowd! This countertop popcorn machine is fun and nostalgic, adding a theatrical touch to any event, from a movie night to a fall festival to a back-to-school bash.
👉 Great Northern Popcorn Machine
Drink Dispensers for an Elevated Touch
Elevate your beverage game and say goodbye to boring bottled water. With these twin dispensers, you can infuse lemon (or any fruit of your choosing) into your water for an elegant touch, and serve another offering like iced tea, cold brew, or lemonade. Customize your drinks to fit the occasion!
👉 1-Gallon Glass Beverage Dispensers with Stand
Balloon Garland Kit w/ Electric Pump for Insta-Worthy Decor 
A colorful balloon arch instantly creates a focal point and makes any event feel like a special occasion. Trust us when we say the electric pump will be a lifesaver! We love this kit because it comes with a handy starter pack of balloons and accessories, but the best part? You can reuse the pump and the arch again and again.
Giant Yard Games for Instant Fun
Yard games are a resident favorite—great for icebreakers and ideal for both kids and adults. You'll put these to use at cookouts and outdoor events of all kinds.
👉 Giant Connect Four Game
👉 Jumbo Wooden Yard Jenga
Mini Sunscreen to Keep You Covered
Sometimes the smallest details make the biggest impact. Mini sunscreen bottles are an easy, affordable way to care for your residents—especially at pool parties, park meetups, or outdoor events. Set them out in a basket or include them as a grab-and-go freebie, and you’ve instantly created a thoughtful touch that says, “We’ve got you covered.” Bonus: they’re practical, appreciated, and help everyone stay a little safer in the sun.
Inflatable Flamingo Drink Holders for Pool Parties
Bring a playful pop of personality to your next pool party with inflatable flamingo drink holders. They’re an easy way to elevate the vibe and add an Instagram-worthy touch while keeping drinks within an arm's reach.
👉 Inflatable Flamingo Drink Holders
Bubble Wands for Kid-Approved Fun
Add a kid-friendly area to any event by setting up a bubble station for your youngest neighbors. This is a great way to include neighbors of all ages in the fun all summer long!
Dry Erase Tabletop Signs to Serve Food with Clarity
Great for labeling food, sharing instructions, or pointing residents to the fun.
👉 Mini Chalkboard Sign Set – 12 Pack
Bingo Set to Create Fun for All Ages
Everyone loves a Bingo night! And when you own a professional Bingo set, you've got the tools to host a budget-friendly, interactive experience on repeat. Put out a few snacks, grab some prizes, and you're all set.
Pro Tip: Keep a dedicated event bin or rolling tote with these reusable items to make setup a breeze next time. It’s a small way to make a big difference in your prep time—and your sanity.
Got a favorite Amazon find we missed? Let us know! We love seeing how our coordinators and event planners of all kinds bring creativity and heart to their events—and we’re always here to help you make home your neighbors' favorite place to be.
Interested in enhancing community life at your property? Learn more about how Apartment Life can help here.
Interested in partnering with Apartment Life as an Events and Ministry Coordinator? We're hiring! Learn more and search for openings near you here.