5 Outdoor Entertaining Ideas for Warm Weather

With spring and summer approaching, your thoughts might be occupied with getting the most out of your outdoor space. Backyard barbeques and parties are a hallmark of the season and, with a few advance preparations, you can make sure your outdoor area is ready for the most memorable soirees of the year.

Seating

Outdoor seating is a must if you’re hosting events in your backyard. If your outdoor area is exposed to the elements, you’ll need outdoor fabrics that won’t fade, and which resist stains and water. They might be a little more expensive than indoor fabric, but the payoff is worth it.

Outdoor cushions also shed water fast, so they don’t become waterlogged. Be sure to store your outdoor cushions away when you’re not using them.

If you don’t have enough outdoor seating for your guests, use indoor seating like dining chairs, stools, or poufs. You can even spread blankets on the grass.

Keep your guests comfortable by having a few throw blankets around, too, in case it gets cold.

Food

No matter what you’re preparing, follow a few guidelines and you’ll be on top of things:

• Prepare in advance: Peel and chop vegetables, marinate meats, and prepare as many of the sides in advance as possible
• Have something for everyone: You might have vegetarians or people with food allergies to account for.
• Have the grill area ready: Make sure it’s clean, and that you have all your utensils, plus separate plates for raw and cooked foods, and make sure you light the coals with enough time to get them hot.

Lighting

Create a special setting with a variety of lights. Lanterns, holiday string lights, and candles can all be used to create a welcoming atmosphere.

Hang string lights on the fence or deck, and place hurricane lanterns or tea lights around here and there. Globe string lights are also a classy option.

Fire bowls and propane fire tables are a great addition to any backyard area, and they come in many different styles to suit whatever look you’re going for.

Have Games and Music

Bocce ball, croquet, beanbag or ring toss, or even Twister can all be fun. You can also cut up 2 x 4 planks and make a giant Jenga set.

Soft music can put your guests at ease – bring some wireless speakers outside to add your own soundtrack to the mix. You can also use a fountain or a waterfall to mask sounds from a noisy street or neighbors.

Bugs

Keep bugs away with citronella candles placed around the yard. If you have ceiling fans, you can turn those on – flies and mosquitoes don’t like breezes. You might also want to have some insect repellent on hand.

Whatever you’re planning for your spring and summer outdoor get-togethers, view Starfire Direct’s selection of fire pits and fire pit supplies, and you’ll be on your way to creating long-lasting memories for both you and your guests.