Everyone likes parties, especially outdoors on balmy summer evenings. Juicy barbeque, tropical cocktails, new backyard lighting—it all sets the stage for an entertaining evening. But what’s a party without music? The answer: silent disco headsets!

Maybe you’ve seen them before—at a cruise or club—but you could be the first of your friends to throw the party all your guests will rave about. Plus, it’s the perfect icebreaker for new people to meet and dance away inhibitions.

Every city has its own noise ordinances; most don’t allow music after 10 p.m., but regardless of the laws, unless you live in the country, your neighbors will still be disturbed by music from a nearby party. It’s amazing how within minutes of donning the headset, everyone either starts to dance, sing, or both. It’s irresistible. Best of all, these events are fun for all ages, making it a perfect option for family get-togethers.

Tips to make your silent disco a success

You can set up a silent disco on your deck, in your garden, or by the pool. All you need are headsets and a wireless transmitter. Stream a playlist from a device, such as your cell phone, tablet, or computer. You can even connect to YouTube to play music videos and simulate a rock concert. Or, if you live in a condo, you can keep the peace with your very loud, (but silent) party. No stressing about other residents calling the front desk to complain about the bass booming through the ceiling or walls. Rock out in your own living room!

Here’s another crowd-pleasing idea: Let everyone take turns choosing their favorite tune. This may get competitive, so you might want to ask guests to write their requests on a party playlist.

If you want to amp up the “wow” factor even more, add some disco lights. These are inexpensive and great for indoors and outdoors. Various options include flashing, color globe lights, and ready-to-go bulbs that screw into an electrical socket. The shifting lights and reflections on the walls are mesmerizing and add to that cool vibe.

You can launch your first event by focusing on a theme. Encourage guests to dress for a specific decade or unique idea of your choice. This can be great for photos and making memories.

What kind of system should I buy?

The cost of these systems varies widely by option, number of headsets and capability. You can find them on Amazon; however, you might find them on other sites for less, with a little research and scouting online sales. Naturally, it also depends on how many you order. This option includes 10 headsets and the transmitter.

Here’s a tip: don’t spend more for the multi-channel sets. Public silent disco parties at clubs and on cruise ships use these, allowing dancers to switch between several tracks. This makes for some very confusing dance combinations when there’s a choice of genre, such as  rap, rock, and mellow music. Everyone’s literally dancing to their own beat.

The multi-channel sets are more expensive and not necessary, nor even a good idea for your home party. Taking turns choosing favorite tunes, or enjoying the same party playlist, keeps the guests hopping—and to the same rhythm.

Bonus Tips:

• Take your party on the road. If someone else wants to host a get-together, you can offer to bring the experience to them. Simply box up the transmitter and desired number of headsets (make sure they are fully charged) and share in a good time without the work of planning the party yourself.
• If you aren’t ready to invest in your own silent disco equipment yet, but want to give it a try, most cities have rental companies. These firms may also provide a professional DJ.

Whatever you decide, silent disco parties are a guaranteed hit and a perfect way to host a summer outdoor event without disturbing neighbors. There is one caveat: with the headset on, you may sound like a winning American Idol contestant to yourself, but to others—not so much! And while the silent disco party won’t disturb your neighbors, if performers get too carried away, that might prove just a bit annoying to anyone not at the party. (Or maybe they’re jealous they weren’t invited.)