As the UK welcomes warmer weather, summer event catering is heating up with exciting food and drink trends perfect for weddings, birthdays, corporate events, and casual get-togethers. Whether you’re planning a stylish garden party or a relaxed outdoor picnic, the right menu can turn a simple gathering into a memorable experience. Here’s a look at the top summer catering trends for 2025, ideal for anyone booking event catering services this season.
1. Stone Baked Pizza & Wood-Fired Pizza Stations
A standout trend this year is the use of stone baked pizza and wood-fired pizza stations at events. These setups not only provide delicious, crispy pizza fresh from the oven but also offer guests a bit of theatre with an interactive food station. Great for everything from family celebrations to corporate fun days, pizza stations are highly customisable and cater to all dietary preferences.
2. Themed Afternoon Teas with Vintage Vibes
Themed afternoon teas are having a major comeback, especially for outdoor summer celebrations like bridal showers, anniversaries, and birthdays. Think floral arrangements, vintage tea sets, and classic fare like scones, finger sandwiches, and petit fours-all served in a charming garden party catering setting.
Afternoon teas can be tailored with fun summer themes—from English countryside to coastal chic-and offer a light, elegant option for daytime events.
3. BBQ Catering: A Timeless Summer Favourite
No list of summer party food ideas would be complete without BBQ catering. From grilled meats and halloumi to vegan skewers and summer salads, BBQs are versatile, crowd-pleasing, and perfect for outdoor setups. You can elevate the experience with custom marinades, live cooking stations, and themed serving setups for a laid-back yet memorable meal.
4. Pimm’s Bar Cart & Refreshing Summer Cocktails
A top request this season? A dedicated Pimm’s bar cart-a charming, mobile drink station serving up the iconic Pimm’s and lemonade combo with fresh fruits and mint. Alongside this, summer cocktails like spritzes, mojitos, and fruity sangrias are trending at garden weddings and casual events. Offering both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options ensures that all guests enjoy a refreshing drink idea suited to the warm weather.
5. Picnic-Style Catering for Casual Outdoor Events
Perfect for corporate events, team-building days, and casual family affairs, picnic-style catering brings a relaxed, al fresco vibe to any summer event. Think woven baskets or grazing boxes filled with cheese, charcuterie, wraps, and summer finger food ideas.
This trend combines visual appeal with convenience and is ideal for venues with open green spaces.
6. Seasonal Menus Using Local Ingredients
A growing number of clients are asking for seasonal catering menus that feature locally sourced ingredients. This not only supports British farmers and producers but ensures freshness and flavour during the peak of summer.
Menus can include summer vegetables, fresh herbs, local cheeses, and seasonal fruits like strawberries and raspberries. This trend aligns with eco-conscious values and elevates the overall dining experience.
7. Why Outdoor Catering Is On the Rise
Outdoor catering has become more popular than ever, with clients embracing flexibility, natural scenery, and safer air circulation. From rustic barn venues to private gardens and parks, the focus is on creating immersive, open-air dining experiences.
Whether you’re planning a formal setup or a boho-chic celebration, ASJ Catering offers tailored event catering services that make the most of your outdoor space.
Final Thoughts: Stand Out This Summer with ASJ Catering
Summer 2025 is all about blending comfort, creativity, and convenience. From classic British touches like afternoon tea and Pimm’s and lemonade to trendy eats like stone baked pizza, these ideas help create unforgettable events.
ASJ Catering brings decades of experience in outdoor catering, along with a flexible, client-first approach to creating seasonal, stylish, and satisfying menus. Whether you’re hosting a wedding, party, or company event, we’re here to make your summer celebration seamless. Contact ASJ Catering for a personalised quote today.