Our Best-Ever Summer Entertaining Tips

"Just because" is a great reason to throw a party!

By Jacquelyn McGilvray, Editor for HGTV.com I love summer parties, they're the best — the days are longer, you get to cook outside, lighting bugs are glowing (or maybe you call them fireflies), there are thirst-quenching drinks, and yummy fresh vegetables like corn on the cob, garden tomatoes and watermelon. You don't need an event or holiday to throw a party — have a party just because you want to. Whether it's a large shindig or intimate dinner party, let us help. We have several ideas for party themes, menu options and cute ways to decorate your outdoor space. This Week's Must-Reads: Father's Day is June 16th. Show your love with a party featuring all his favorite food and drinks. We've got ideas for brunch, barbecue, potluck and more. If you're looking for a special gift to DIY for Dad, check out these crafts for kids and adults. As a host you may be bringing guests together who have never met before — family, new co-workers or longtime school friends. How to break the ice and get everyone to mix and mingle? Games! Here are over 50 backyard games to get you started. I have no shame when it comes to asking guests to bring a dish when I'm throwing a party. A potluck saves time and money. Plus, I get to try other people's cooking. Whether you're a guest or a host, check out these party food ideas that are simple to make, easy to transport and won't break the bank. The Summer Olympics starts on July 26th in Paris — it only happens once every four years, so what better excuse to celebrate? I'm thinking of a French-inspired garden party with a Paris-café theme. Or it might just be a casual watch party with game-day snacks and appetizers. I'm also thinking of setting up an outdoor obstacle course for the kids (or maybe adults too) so they can have their own Olympic games. A signature cocktail is one of those classy little touches that can elevate the most casual gathering. How about mango margaritas, hibiscus rum punch or lemony summer shandies? Making a big batch of cocktails ahead of time means you're spending less time being bartender and more time sipping with friends. We've also got recipes for frozen concoctions and mocktails that are sure to keep your guests cool and refreshed.   Low-Cost Backyard Decorating Ideas I enjoy getting my deck and yard spruced up for the warm weather. It's like my house suddenly got bigger and I have more space to hang out and entertain. My husband takes care of the pressure washing while I get the fun job of filling the planters with pretty flowers and bringing some interior decor outside. And the best part? It doesn't cost a lot — just a few dollars for new plants. Here are a few low-cost ways to make your outdoor space shine. 40 Budget-Friendly Ideas for Small Outdoor Spaces Summertime Crafts for Your Outdoor Space 45 Creative Ways to Add Backyard Privacy Inexpensive DIY Outdoor Kitchen Ideas Great Ideas for Celebrating Juneteenth June 19th commemorates an important part of American history. And even though the holiday is based on a serious injustice, Juneteenth celebrations are full of joy and life. Learn more about various ways to celebrate Juneteenth. Follow Us Everywhere Unsubscribe | Privacy Notice | California Privacy Notice | Visitor Agreement This email was sent to aymentanaze.news@blogger.com. ©2024  Warner Bros. Discovery, Inc. or its subsidiaries and affiliates. 230 Park Avenue South, New York, NY 10003 | All Rights Reserved