[Harp-L] best elements of music parties

["John F. Sweeney" <valcoguy@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

I'm thinking about hosting a "musician's jam" party at a local  
community center. My goal is to have the most relaxed and comfortable  
atmosphere possible, and I'm curious about peoples' experiences- what  
was your favorite music party and what made it so good?
So far, I know I want a good PA, with ample monitors and mikes, and a  
drum set to share.
Two friends host a party every year, and their two car garage is  
opened up and FILLED with musicians. Some elements- our hosts are  
very welcoming, high level of musicianship, variety and quality of  
tunes and styles, mutual respect, mini sets, no grandstanding,  
reasonable limits- on volume, alcohol, etc. Also a good spirit of  
fun, a good number of enthusiastic non-musicians, good eats. Some  
things aren't quantifiable I guess...