How to Choose the Right AV Setup for Outdoor Events

Outdoor events have a magic all their own: open skies, natural backdrops, and a sense of freedom you just can’t replicate indoors. But they also come with their own set of challenges, especially when it comes to AV.

Unlike controlled indoor environments, outdoor venues can be unpredictable. Wind, ambient noise, lighting conditions, and even weather can make or break your sound and visuals. That’s why choosing the right AV setup for an outdoor event isn’t just a box to check. It’s a must that impacts every guest’s experience.

Here’s how to make sure your AV is ready to shine under the sun, stars, or anything in between.

1. Prioritize weather resistant equipment.

Weather happens. Even with a perfect forecast, outdoor events need AV gear that can handle humidity, heat, and the unexpected drizzle. Ask your AV partner if they use IP-rated (weather-resistant) equipment for outdoor environments, and if they have protective covers, tents, or enclosures for sensitive gear such as mixers, projectors, and screens.

And if they don't have a backup plan, that's a real concern. A great AV team will help you design a rain contingency that keeps your show running smoothly.

2. Use the right audio for the open air.

Sound behaves differently outside. Without walls to contain and reflect audio, it’s easy for voices and music to get lost in the wind or become uneven across your audience.

The solution? Directional speakers and line array systems that project sound evenly across large spaces without creating hotspots or dead zones. Wireless mic systems with strong frequency reliability are also key, especially if your event includes speakers, performers, or audience Q&A.

And don’t forget about the noise factor. Outdoor venues often have ambient sound from traffic, crowds, or nature. Your audio setup should be powerful enough to rise above it without distortion.

3. Plan for daylight and nightfall.

One of the biggest AV mistakes outdoors? Underestimating the sun. Standard projectors and screens often can’t compete with natural daylight, especially in midday settings.

To combat this, opt for high-lumen projectors or better yet, LED video walls, which perform beautifully even in direct sunlight. If your event transitions into the evening, work with your AV team to design lighting that not only enhances visibility but adds ambiance. Think stage washes, uplighting, and accent LEDs.

4. Power it all with confidence.

Outdoor venues don’t always have built-in power sources, or they might be far from your staging area. That’s where generator planning and power distribution become essential.

Make sure your AV vendor maps out power needs in advance, including any additional power for food vendors, lighting, or other tech partners, to avoid last-minute overloads or outages.

5. Choose an AV partner with outdoor experience.

Outdoor events are a whole different ballgame, and not every AV company is equipped to handle the nuances. Look for a team with a proven track record in outdoor settings, complete with logistics expertise, setup efficiency, and equipment suited for open-air challenges.

Ask to see photos, get references, or, better yet, walk the venue with them during planning. A seasoned AV partner will catch issues you may not have even considered.

Ready to take your outdoor event to the next level?

At Moonrise AV, we specialize in crafting outdoor AV experiences that impress, no matter the location, time of day, or weather forecast. From backyard gatherings to full-scale festivals, we bring the gear, expertise, and backup plans to make your event shine.

Ready to see what's possible? Submit an RFP today.

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