Making a budget will also give you a chance to make a shopping list to ensure you don’t forget anything important. Don’t forget to check wholesale and discount stores to find the best deals.
Depending on where you live, kegs can range from $75 to $175 and even more for luxury beers. [4] X Research source Make sure to also pick up a tap system that works for your keg! Most retailers include this with the keg rental, but double check before confirming your purchase.
Depending on how rowdy you expect your party to get, you may also want to factor whether the location has any breakable or delicate features when you’re planning.
If you or your friends keep a social calendar, check that before scheduling your party, to make sure the people that will really enjoy the party will be able to make it!
Keep in mind that a “public” event on Facebook is visible to everyone, so you may not be able to control how many people show up. Depending on your location, budget, and plans, consider creating a “private” event or advertising a different way. Crafting a clever name and blurb for your party will definitely catch the eye of social media users.
Your keg will need to sit in a large bucket of ice during your party. Most rentals include a bucket but double check with the retailer to be sure. Take a friend with you in case you find the keg too heavy to carry by yourself. Plan to bring your keg home at least two hours before the party, so it can settle. If you don’t, the first several pours will be very foamy![8] X Research source
If you see bubbles or foam while you pump, this is a sign that the pump may not be attached correctly. In this case, take the pump off and start the process again.
The most common issue guests may run into is not knowing when to pump the keg. Remind them that, if the beer is only coming out as a trickle, they may need to give it 5 to 6 good pumps. However, if only foam is coming out, they’ve pumped too much (or the keg is empty!). Another option is to have a designated keg tapper to ensure guests are able to get refills without any issues.
Plan ahead to make sure you have enough beverages on hand for all of your party guests. It’s not recommended to drink hard liquor products after consuming a large amount of beer. With this in mind, offer plenty of water, juice, and non-acholic beverages so your guests don’t get uncomfortably intoxicated. Check-in with your guests throughout the party to make sure everyone is doing okay. It can be easy for guests to quickly become overly intoxicated and it’s important to make sure everyone stays safe.
Factoring in the music tastes of your guests can help you curate a really good playlist.
Toss all cups, plates, and other paper products into a trash bin. Pour out all liquid before and separate plastic for recycling. Load dishwasher-safe items into your dishwasher and then run it overnight. Clean up any large spills. Wipe down all counters.
The goal is to have everything looking like it did before your party began.
The keg should be returned in the same condition as you received it. Don’t forget to clean the hose, pump, and other accessories. Avoid trying to repair a damaged keg yourself because it may make the situation worse.
If you paid a deposit, any refund owed to you will most likely be issued as soon as the keg is returned. Be sure to get a receipt that confirms the return transaction. [18] X Research source
