When most people think of outdoor entertaining, they picture summer barbecues and pool parties, but there is more to the great outdoors than hot weather and warm breezes. If you have a lovely patio or deck, there is no reason to spend all your time indoors just because summer has ended and given way to fall. The great outdoors still has plenty to offer, and there are plenty of ways to make outdoor entertaining work all autumn long.
One of the best ways to get your patio or deck ready for the rigors of outdoor entertaining is to invest in a quality heat source. Whether you add a fire pit to your patio or a gas-powered heater to your deck, there are plenty of ways to keep your guests warm and cozy on those cool autumn nights.
You can also take advantage of the same Tiki torches that made your summer pool parties so much fun. These torches can also be excellent natural bug repellents, keeping those troublesome fall insects from wrecking your party.
The great thing about outdoor entertaining in the fall is that there are so many opportunities for themed parties and get-togethers. You can host a celebration for the dawning of the autumnal equinox, put together an adults-only trick-or-treat night for Halloween and take the traditional meal outdoors when Thanksgiving rolls around. The possibilities are nearly endless, and autumn is the perfect time to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors.
No matter what the occasion, decorating your outdoor living space will make your parties more festive. Whether you choose the natural beauty of autumn leaves, string orange lights around your deck for Halloween or festoon your patio with paper lanterns, the right decorations will make your outdoor entertaining more special.
The right food and drink can also make a big difference in your outdoor entertaining, so spend some time whipping up some specialty cocktails with an autumnal theme. From apple cider spiced with rum to concoctions with pumpkin, nutmeg, gingerbread and other fall flavors, the drinks you create will give your outdoor bar a seasonal flavor – and give your guests something great to drink.
Be sure to provide the same selection of non-alcoholic creations for the kids and abstaining adults. You can use the same fall flavors for these family-friendly drinks – just skip the alcohol.
The fall season is the perfect time to host an outdoor party. The steamy hot weather is gone, the nights are still pleasant and there are lots of fun holidays and other occasions to celebrate. The winter weather will be coming soon enough, so you do not have to hide inside your home quite yet.