If you have a patio, you have all the ingredients for a fun outdoor setting. You can throw a fabulous patio party with just a few chairs, a couple of folding tables (Source: Terra Patio), and a few of the following ideas. If you like to entertain, your patio can provide the perfect setting for gathering with family and friends.

food

If you’re having a backyard party, it makes sense to cook outside so you still feel included in the party. You can use your grill to make your main course and side dishes. Whether you’re serving cheeseburgers and corn on the cob or salmon fillets with potato wedges, you can grill a wide variety of tasty meals for your friends. You can also prepare salads and appetizers in advance so you don’t have to cook all the time. Also, it’s always a good idea to pack plenty of snacks like chips, pretzels, and popcorn for your hungry guests to munch on.

to drink

You don’t have to have a fancy outdoor bar to create a cocktail and beverage table. You can set up an outdoor table or counter with a row of drink selections and a large cooler of ice. Make sure you have plenty of cups and glasses on hand. Keep soft drinks and bottled water in a separate cooler. Plus, ice buckets keep “wine and other beverages cold and ready.” (Source: StyleatHome, Perfect Patio Party) Depending on how many guests you have, you may want to rent a keg for your backyard party.

Turning on

From solar powered patio light strings to hanging candle lanterns, you can enhance your backyard entertaining at night. You can also place citronella candles on your tables to give light and scare away mosquitoes. Additionally, citronella torches are ideal for placing just outside your patio. If your town allows it, you could even enhance your backyard with a fire pit. It provides plenty of additional light and makes a great focal point for evening entertainment.

Music

While you don’t want the music so loud that it drowns out conversation, it can certainly boost the party spirit on your patio. By having great party music ready, you’ll be able to provide an instant mood when your guests arrive. If you don’t know everyone’s taste in music, be sure to play a variety of music genres.

Games

If your yard has room for a volleyball net or bag toss game, you’ll find that your guests will enjoy some friendly competition. If they prefer a more relaxed game, keep a deck or two of cards handy to play around the patio table. If you are expecting young guests, you can set up some board games that they can enjoy playing outside.

A backyard party is a great way to spend time with family and friends during the warm seasons. As long as you have seats and a couple of tables on the patio, you can easily accommodate your guests and throw a lovely party for everyone to enjoy.

Sources:

1. StyleatHome, Perfect Patio Party, http://www.styleathome.com/food-and-entertaining/party-planner/perfect-patio-party/a/23096