50 Tips for Planning the Ultimate Backyard Get-Together

Long sunny days and entertaining go hand in hand. After all, we might as well celebrate the extra hours of sunlight by kicking back with a few of our favorite people while enjoying a refreshing cocktail and tasty nibbles. Take your spring, summer or fall soirée from just fun to fun-tastic with our best backyard party ideas.

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By: H. Camille Smith

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Party on the Patio

Spring, summer and fall, sunny days signal it's time to take entertaining outdoors. Whether you prefer to keep your get-togethers casual or opt for sophisticated soirées, there's no denying that sips and snacks enjoyed outdoors always taste best. Read on for our best tips for throwing an alfresco fête that both you and your guests will enjoy. And, learn more about this budget backyard, featured in HGTV Magazine, below.

See More Photos: Colorful Ideas Abound In This Happy Florida Home

From: HGTV Magazine

Or, Dine on the Deck

If you're lucky enough to have a deck — especially one as big as this one — you're halfway to party paradise. Just a few additions will get it ready for guests: add an outdoor rug for color underfoot, a seating area so friends can comfortably gather and a table for dining. Privacy is also key; block nosy neighbors with a row of planters or a solid wall flanking that side of the deck. Get more tips for adding backyard privacy, below.

See More Photos: 45 Creative Ways to Add Backyard Privacy

Ensure Your Party Is Made in the Shade

Turn an over-exposed patio or deck into a shady hangout with a billowing shade sail. Our step-by-step instructions, below, show you how to set up the supports sturdily and customize the shade to better fit your outdoor decor.

Get the How-To: Beat the Heat and Add Privacy With an Embellished Shade Sail

Provide Self-Service Adult Sips

Let guests help themselves to a boozy bevvie with an outdoor bar cart and tubs filled with ice and bottled brews. If young kids will be present, stock it with only non-alcoholic beverages so they don't accidentally grab a tipsy sip and keep the booze behind the bar.

From: H. Camille Smith

Or, Conquer a Cold-Weather Chill

Cozy up fall and winter get-togethers with a self-service coffee and cocoa station. Guests of all ages will love playing barista to mix up their favorite warm cuppa. Get all our tips for setting one up, below.

See More Photos: 3 Ways to Set Up a Beverage Station at Your Next Shindig

Invite Friendly Pups to the Party

For many pet parents, pups are family, so include well-behaved fidos in the festivities. Check with guests beforehand to ensure that no one in attendance is overly fearful of pups and remind guests that only fully vetted and friendly dogs should come. Also, keep pet safety top of mind — hosting furry guests in a securely fenced backyard is the best bet.

But, Be Mindful of Harmful Foods

Ask guests not to feed your pup any foods you haven't approved — and to do the same for any canine guests at your party. In the same way that you wouldn't give a stranger's toddler a bite of your burger, pet parents should be the only ones giving food to their dog since they'll be aware of any food sensitivities. And, in general, never give any dog cooked meat bones, which could splinter, causing life-threatening damage to the pup's mouth, throat or intestines, or could even break apart, blocking the dog's airways or lodging in the colon, which would require emergency surgery. Learn more people foods that are a pet no-no.

Create Areas for Guests to Gather

Guests will naturally congregate wherever they find a comfy spot to sit, so group furniture together to create conversation areas. Ready to spring for some new furniture? Learn the pros and cons of the most popular outdoor materials, below.

See More Photos: Your Outdoor Furniture Buying Guide: Top Tips on Lifespan, Maintenance + More

And, Help Them Get Cozy

Cozy up hard outdoor furniture with pillows and throws to make kicking back in your great outdoors even more enjoyable. But, to prevent damage and a musty smell, don't use indoor (especially down-filled) cushions. Instead, opt for durable outdoor-rated fabric filled with water-resistant polyfill inserts and swap in a Turkish beach towel, which dries super fast, for a standard throw.

Learn More: Patio, Perfected: 11 Amazing Amazon Finds for a Shady Outdoor Oasis

From: H. Camille Smith

Feast Among the Flowers

What could be a more serene setting for a relaxed dinner than moving the party to the garden? Surrounded by seasonal blooms, your guests will be able to appreciate your green thumb while enjoying the scent of nearby blooms.

Or, Bring Blooms to the Table

A beautiful centerpiece makes any get-together feel more special, but they can be pricey. No worries, we have 10 ideas for DIY-ing a florist-worthy centerpiece on the cheap, like this bright arrangement featuring backyard blooms and citrus slices.

See More Photos: 11 Creative DIY Centerpieces

From: Brian Patrick Flynn

Keep Kids Occupied

If kids are included in the party, plan activities like a bubble station to keep them safely occupied, leaving the adults free to relax and enjoy themselves. Get 11 more party tips every parent should know, below.

See More Photos: 11 Party Hacks Every Parent Should Know

And, Keep Kids Hydrated

An inflatable baby pool is just the right size to keep a variety of juice boxes and sodas iced down and handy so your littlest guests can help themselves.

See More Photos: 11 Party Hacks Every Parent Should Know

Throw a Pool Party

If there was ever a backyard built for entertaining, this is it: ample seating areas encourage groups of friends to gather for convo, while bistro lights and candles add a welcoming glow. Need some designer inspo for your backyard oasis (or just want to take a quick virtual vacay)? Check out the stunning pools ready to party, below.

From: LGB Interiors

Or, Party Under a Pergola

Pergolas are great for filtering sunlight while still giving you the feeling of being outside. If you're lucky enough to have one of these structures in your backyard, position the dining table under it and invite guests to sit a spell. No pergola? No problem! Our quick video and step-by-step instructions, below, will help you add a beautiful shade structure to your backyard.

From: The Sisters & Company

Fire Up the Grill

What would backyard entertaining be without everyone's favorite foods hot off the grill? Whether you're hosting a neighborhood block party or just friends and family for a good old-fashioned cookout, fire up the grill and ask everyone to bring their favorite side dish or dessert to share.

From: HGTV Magazine

Then, Let Guests Top to Fit Their Taste

A variety of condiments and toppings will make it easy for guests to please their palate while the self-serve set-up frees you up to mix and mingle. Get our tips for setting up a toppings bar, below.

See More Photos: Simplify Your Next Cookout With a Self-Serve Hot Dog Bar

From: Brian Patrick Flynn

Include Some Healthy Options

Be considerate of your guests' food preferences by throwing an assortment of veggies onto the grill to satisfy vegetarians, calorie counters and more health-conscious diners. Never grilled veggies before? Trust us, it's easy and oh-so-delicious! Learn how to grill veggies like a pro with these tips from our friends at Food Network.

Or, Serve an Easy-to-Munch Menu

Even if grilling isn't your thing, you can still serve an easy-to-prepare menu that'll free you from kitchen duties. Handheld bites, like these Mini Tacos, are easy for guests to enjoy while mingling. Check out more easy-to-nosh nibbles that both you and your guests will love, below.

See More Photos: 40 Handheld Party Foods for Your Next Shindig

Or, Even Let Your Oven Do the Work

Looking for a simple, hearty meal to feed a crowd? Look no further than this fuss-free feast inspired by the Low Country classic. Best of all, no special gear or cookware is necessary — you just need a sheet pan and your kitchen oven. Get the recipe, below.

Get the Recipe: Easy + Delicious Sheet Pan Shrimp Boil Recipe

From: Chelsea Faulkner

Game On!

Backyard games are a surefire way to break the ice among guests who may be meeting for the first time. Badminton, croquet, bocce or horseshoes are all safe bets and a great way to get guests of all ages involved in the fun. Feeling crafty? Check out our ideas for DIY backyard games, below.

See More Photos: 50 Ultra-Fun DIY Backyard Games for All Ages

And, Include Kids in the Fun

Kid-friendly games will ensure your littlest guests also have fun. This twist on the classic candy-filled piñata is the perfect way to cool off on a hot summer day. Just fill at least a dozen balloons with water, bundle them together with a net and hang from a tree. Let the kids take their best swings with a stick or baseball bat and prepare to get soaked.

Satisfy Their Sweet Tooth

Even the most diet-devoted guest finds it hard to pass up a bite or two of something sweet, making individual desserts like cupcakes, tartelettes, cookies and parfaits a tasty choice. For mini desserts your guests can enjoy while they mingle, try one of our irresistible recipes, below.

See More Photos: Party a Go-Go With Our Favorite Handheld Sweets

From: H. Camille Smith

Or, Let Them Make Their Own Dessert

Seriously, who doesn't love sinking their teeth into an ooey-gooey s'more? And, best of all: making them is almost as much fun as eating them. Need a little inspo to take your s'more game up a notch? Check out our ideas, below.

See More Photos: 19 Easy, Creative Recipes & DIYs for S'mores Lovers

Cue the Candlelight

Dig your old brass, silverplate or pewter candlesticks out of storage and mix them into your table setting for a trendy-again touch that'll add a soft romantic glow as the sun sets.

And, Light Up the Night

Don't let the setting of the sun send guests packing. Keep the party going with twinkling strands of bistro lights. Learn our tricks for temporarily, but safely, illuminating your backyard, below.

Get the How-To: String Light Solution: Hang Patio Lights Using Planters and Wood Posts

From: Sam Henderson

Set a Table That's Dressed to Impress

Take any celebration from ordinary to unforgettable with a beautifully set table. Follow our pro tips, below, to creatively mix items you already have with budget-friendly vintage finds for a guest-impressing table that only looks expensive.

See More Photos: Luxe for Less: Set a Timeless Table That Only Looks Expensive

From: H. Camille Smith

Or, Keep It Beachy + Laid-Back

Summer is the season for kicking back and relaxing. Make your party planning as low-stress as possible by pre-prepping dishes the day before and piling the buffet table with a variety of nibbles so everyone can serve themselves. Try one of our easy dip recipes, below.

See More Photos: 10 Dips That Will Take Your Party to the Next Level

No Table? Fake It

Dining tables aren't necessary when you have the skills to craft your own. Here, a castoff barn door + wood stumps = a long, low outdoor dining table that can be broken down between uses. Get more tips for throwing a boho-style bash, below.

Or Even Party Picnic-Style

No outdoor dining table? No worries. For a small get-together of close friends, a few blankets, beach towels or low cushions are all you need to set up a cozy spot for enjoying a shared picnic-style supper.

But, Don't Invite Bugs to Dinner

Easily whip up a few of these canning jar luminaries to keep mosquitoes from crashing your party. Place a few slices of lemons and limes along with sprigs of rosemary into a jar of water, then add several drops of essential oil. We recommend citronella, lemon or lavender. Top with a floating candle and enjoy a bug-free fête.

See More Photos: Party Like a Pro: Our 60 Fave Entertaining Ideas

And, Keep Kids Bug-Free

Don't let mosquitoes ruin your fun. Keep bugs at bay with this colorful and all-natural citronella-infused bracelet. Learn how to make them, plus get more kids' party tips, below.

Gather 'Round the Fire Pit

Guests of all ages can agree that s'mores are a tasty treat made in fireside heaven. Make s'mores happen (some more) by creating the perfect setting with a DIY fire pit surrounded by a group of low benches or outdoor chairs. Learn how to build a fire pit in just an afternoon, below.

Get the How-To: How to Build a Fire Pit in an Afternoon

From: Brian Patrick Flynn

And, Toss In Some Throws

Cold-weather get-togethers can be just as much fun as summer soirées with just a few tweaks, like spreading a few throw blankets around the party area and, of course, firing up the ever-popular fire pit.

Make It a Movie Night

Invite guests to join you for an after-dark film fest. Hook up a projector to your laptop, then display a favorite flick on a white sheet or blank wall. Movie buffs of all ages will love a laid-back evening under the stars. Learn how to make your own DIY movie screen using a white sheet, below.

Get the How-To: How to Make an Easy DIY Outdoor Movie Screen

And, DIY a Movie Projector

Don’t drop major bucks on an expensive outdoor projector. Instead, follow our tips, below, to upcycle a cardboard box, a magnifier, laptop and a window shade into a projector for your outdoor theater.

Get the How-To: How to Make a Movie Projector From a Cardboard Box

Bring the Indoors, Out

Weather permitting, bring out indoor pillows, flatweave rugs and throws to create a cozy lounge area for guests to gather. Having a soft spot to land after filling up on good food and drinks will encourage guests to linger long after dark.

See More Photos: Breathe New Life Into Your Outdoor Living Room With Cozy Decorating Ideas

From: Brian Patrick Flynn

(Side) Table It

Ceramic garden stools not only add a big boost of timeless style to a backyard seating area, their glazed surface can weather rain or sun with ease while providing a flat surface for guests to set their snack or drink. No garden stools — no problem. Bring a small indoor table out temporarily for the party or, in a pinch, use an inverted flower pot or garden urn as a handy side table.

From: H. Camille Smith

Serve a Signature Cocktail

To save time mixing drinks on the fly, whip up a big batch of one signature cocktail before guests arrive. Welcome guests with a drink upon arrival, then invite them to help themselves to refills with a large punchbowl or pitchers filled with your signature concoction. Check out our go-to summer sips, below.

See More Photos: 35 Delicious Drinks to Sip by the Pool

From: H. Camille Smith

Or, Serve Boozy Frozen Desserts

What would summer be without a frosty frozen dessert? And, what’s a party without a few adult beverages? Combine the two and beat the heat with this refreshing red wine sorbet.

Get the Recipe: Red Wine Strawberry Sorbet Recipe

From: Brian Patrick Flynn

Themed Party: Host a Seed Swap

What better way to honor Mother Nature than to host an outdoor party that's about, well, honoring Mother Nature? Host a seed swap party to help your green- (and not so green-) thumbed pals get a head-start on beautifying their backyards or growing their farm-to-table faves.

See More Photos: Get Ready for Spring: Host a Seed Swap Party

Throw an Alfresco Brunch

Ah, brunch, the weekend's perfect party! Whether you're celebrating Mother's Day, Easter, a birthday or just toasting the weekend, brunch it up with our ideas for tipsy sips, easy yet healthy recipes and setting a beautiful spread. Get all our tips for an unforgettable breakfast-meets-lunch spread, below.

See More Photos: Brunch Like a Boss With Our 25 Top Tips

From: H. Camille Smith

Or, Throw an Outdoor Birthday Bash

Weather permitting, take birthday celebrations to the backyard to simplify cleanup, give guests space to spread out and encourage kids to run off the post-cake sugar rush.

Host a Fall Open House

Keep the party going through the warm fall months with an outdoor open house party that encourages neighbors to swing by for tasty snacks. Get all our tips for planning this casual outdoor get-together, below.

See More Photos: Entertain Outdoors: Host a Rustic Fall Open House Party

From: Marian Parsons

Simplify Set-Up + Clean-Up

Make party set-up and clean-up a snap by subbing an inexpensive fitted sheet for a tablecloth. When the party's over you can just throw it in the wash. Best of all: the sheet's fitted corners keep it from shifting or flapping around in the breeze.

Upgrade Your Utensils

Make post-party clean-up a snap with disposable bamboo flatware that looks great, is much sturdier than plastic (no more broken tines!) and is biodegradable so it's also a win for the environment.

From: Brian Patrick Flynn

Craft Upcycled Lanterns

Seriously, upcycling has never looked so good. Craft these nearly-free cuties to brighten up tabletops or hang them from low tree limbs to light the way to the party. Make your own with our instructions, below.

Get the How-To: How to Make Tin Can Lanterns

And, Colorful Decor

With just a few inexpensive supplies and a little creativity, you can whip up these colorful lanterns while binge-watching your favorite show. Learn how to add the watercolor patterns, below.

And, Deck Out With a DIY Banner

A colorful banner adds a festive touch to any outdoor party. Create your own with our free printable template, below. Just print the template onto sheets of card stock, cut out, and connect the pennants with metal brads.

Get the Template: Free Printable Party Flag Banner Templates

Send 'Em Home Happy

Everyone loves taking home an extra serving of tasty party food to enjoy later. Instead of a standard party favor, make it easy for guests to pack up nibbles to-go by setting out a variety of eco-friendly paper containers in an assortment of shapes and sizes.

From: Kim Stoegbauer

50 Tips for Planning the Ultimate Backyard Get-Together

Related To:

Shop This Look

Party on the Patio

Or, Dine on the Deck

Ensure Your Party Is Made in the Shade

Provide Self-Service Adult Sips

Or, Conquer a Cold-Weather Chill

Invite Friendly Pups to the Party

But, Be Mindful of Harmful Foods

Create Areas for Guests to Gather

And, Help Them Get Cozy

Feast Among the Flowers

Or, Bring Blooms to the Table

Keep Kids Occupied

And, Keep Kids Hydrated

Throw a Pool Party

Or, Party Under a Pergola

Fire Up the Grill

Then, Let Guests Top to Fit Their Taste

Include Some Healthy Options

Or, Serve an Easy-to-Munch Menu

Or, Even Let Your Oven Do the Work

Game On!

And, Include Kids in the Fun

Satisfy Their Sweet Tooth

Or, Let Them Make Their Own Dessert

Cue the Candlelight

And, Light Up the Night

Set a Table That's Dressed to Impress

Or, Keep It Beachy + Laid-Back

No Table? Fake It

Or Even Party Picnic-Style

But, Don't Invite Bugs to Dinner

And, Keep Kids Bug-Free

Gather 'Round the Fire Pit

And, Toss In Some Throws

Make It a Movie Night

And, DIY a Movie Projector

Bring the Indoors, Out

(Side) Table It

Serve a Signature Cocktail

Or, Serve Boozy Frozen Desserts

Themed Party: Host a Seed Swap

Throw an Alfresco Brunch

Or, Throw an Outdoor Birthday Bash

Host a Fall Open House

Simplify Set-Up + Clean-Up

Upgrade Your Utensils

Craft Upcycled Lanterns

And, Colorful Decor

And, Deck Out With a DIY Banner

Send 'Em Home Happy

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