Organizing an outdoor get-together that is lively, festive, and packed with food, drinks, and conversation necessitates a few smart outdoor entertaining ideas that will streamline the planning and preparation process.
Whether you are hosting a family gathering on the patio or getting ready for a big neighborhood party, these suggestions are intended to simplify your life.
Opt for seasonal favorites for a backyard picnic: Salads, fresh fruits, and cold beverages will please the crowd, and you won’t have to spend hours standing over a hot stove. On the other hand, grilling a delicious meal allows you to socialize with your guests while you cook, so you won’t feel isolated in the kitchen.
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Design a menu that focuses on handheld foods (and perhaps even those that don’t require plates or bowls). Consider options like hot dogs, corn on the cob, cupcakes, or ice pops for dessert.
Opting for a potluck for your party is perfectly fine — especially if you’re expecting a large crowd. Decide on the main dishes and drinks you’ll provide, and allow your guests to bring snacks, sides, and desserts.
You provide the ingredients, let them create their feast. If you have an outdoor pizza oven, all you need is ready-made pizza dough, sauce, shredded cheeses, and a variety of toppings for everyone to create their own masterpiece. Set up a fun DIY bar (such as a make-your-own taco station or an elaborate salad bar with all the toppings). Ice cream and sundae toppings can take care of dessert.
5 CRAFT A SIGNATURE COCKTAIL
Instead of stocking a full bar, choose one (simple) batch cocktail, offer wine, beer, and some non-alcoholic options, and voila — your outdoor party bar is ready.
Clean out cans, bottles, and jars, and repurpose them to hold utensils or straws, serve as glasses, or present desserts. You can simply recycle them at the end of the night.
7 CREATE A MOBILE DRINKS STATION
Stock a bar cart with essentials: glasses, ice, a cocktail shaker, and swizzle sticks. Simply roll it back to the kitchen if supplies run low.
To keep perishable dishes like dairy-based dips chilled, fill a large bowl with ice and sprinkle it with kosher salt. Place the dish on top to keep it cooler for longer. Just remember to monitor these dishes and replace the dip and ice bath as needed.
Searching for the perfect picnic playlist? Rather than curating one, search for mood options on music streaming services. Many offer a fantastic selection of party playlists, whether you want a relaxed atmosphere, nostalgic tunes, or a full-on dance party.
10 FOCUS ON COMFY SEATING
Thick, comfortable chair cushions will entice guests to linger at the table. If you don’t already have them, consider investing in weatherproof replacement cushions. Patio heaters can also help create a cozy outdoor environment if temperatures drop at night.
11 GET CREATIVE WITH DISPOSABLES
Place brown craft paper on the table for effortless cleanup. If the kids (or adults) are looking for an activity, set out crayons on a craft-paper-covered kids’ table so they can doodle on the tablecloth until dinner is ready.
12 DEFINE YOUR OUTDOOR SPACE
An umbrella not only provides shade but also helps delineate your outdoor space. If you have a sunny yard, consider setting up multiple patio umbrellas and mini-seating areas around the backyard or deck. These shaded retreats will encourage mingling at a larger party.
13 CHOOSE UNFUSSY DECORATIONS
Adorn your table with floating peonies and gardenias for a lovely centerpiece. Simply pour water into a large serving platter, trim the flower stems, and place them in the water — no floral design expertise required!
String paper lanterns from tree branches for a charmingly festive touch (use dark extension cords that blend in). Reuse white Christmas lights for a magical twinkling effect. Even placing inexpensive tea lights in clean glass jam jars can create a warm ambiance.
Encircle your party area with citronella candles or incense sticks to light up as the sun sets. The scent will help ward off bugs. Also, consider placing a bottle (or two) of bug spray on the party’s perimeter for guests to use.
Battery-operated flameless candles emit the same warm glow as traditional candles without the risk of wind, fire hazards, or spilled wax. This is an excellent option if there will be young children or pets at the backyard party.
17 GATHER AROUND THE FIRE
A fire pit is essential for making s’mores and sharing stories. Investing in a wood-burning fire pit will ensure that your family uses it multiple times (or even every night) throughout the summer and fall.
