Take Your Holiday Entertaining Outside With These 10 Tips

If you’re entertaining family and friends during the holidays and could use a bit more space, we've got easy, festive ideas on getting everyone outdoors and into the spirit of the season.

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October 10, 2016

By: Brian Patrick Flynn

Related To:

Celebrate the Season (Outside!)

You don't have to keep the party inside! Turn your favorite outdoor space into an entertaining hot spot this holiday season.

From: Brian Patrick Flynn

Makeshift Bar

While a sleek bar cart is nice eye candy, you don't need one to create a functional and stylish serving area for guests to prep a cocktail. Any space can be transformed into a makeshift beverage station — all you really need is some barware, a cutting board and a few holiday decorations.

From: Brian Patrick Flynn

Musical Entertainment

Make memories by asking guests to bring an instrument and provide the musical entertainment.

From: Brian Patrick Flynn

Extra Pillows + Blankets

Limited on outdoor furniture? No problem! Keep lots of pillows and extra blankets on hand, and you’ll have no shortage of fireside seating.

Games + Puzzles

Keep a few games and puzzles on hand in a cute caddy that’s easy to take outside.

From: Brian Patrick Flynn

DIY Kids' Activity

Keep kids busy with an outdoor crafting activity. This easy mini pompom ornament is so cute you’ll want to make a few, too!

From: Brian Patrick Flynn

Coffee + Breakfast Cart

Repurpose a bar or garden cart into a rolling breakfast station complete with gourmet coffees and a variety of newspapers.

From: Brian Patrick Flynn

Make It Glow

Skip the traditional candle and toss in a tangle of string lights or battery-operated LED wire lights to amp up holiday lanterns.

From: Brian Patrick Flynn

Outdoor Place Setting

If your group is a lot larger than your dining room, that's even more reason to take your entertaining outdoors. An outdoor dining table is a great solution to accommodate extra guests. This low-key place setting is festive and casual with woodland sophistication.

From: Brian Patrick Flynn

Sense of Wonder

Keep the kids' anticipation high with holiday decor tailored just for them. Give a nod to Santa's workshop with little touches that will spark their imaginations.

From: Brian Patrick Flynn

Lead the Way

If you’re entertaining after dark, you’ll want to make sure that pathways and stairs are properly lit. It’s easier than ever to add lights to your existing garlands, thanks to battery-operated LED lights.

From: Brian Patrick Flynn