Backyard Decorating Ideas For Parties

Need backyard party ideas for your casual shindig? We'll show you how to host your friends and neighbors with stress-free dishes and fun takes on grilling classics.

When it comes to summertime shindigs, we love a good pool party or tailgate at the baseball game. But what we love most of all is a casual, stress-free party right in your own backyard. Just fire up the grill, call up your besties and let the fun begin. Want more backyard party ideas? We'll walk you through how to host the best backyard bash yet. You can start with these must-have recipes:

Southwestern Backyard Burgers

Whether you're in the stadium parking lot or on your patio, these Southwestern-style burgers are great on the grill. Sometimes I make six patties rather than eight because I like my burgers bigger and better! —Robert Hodges, San Diego, California

THIS is how to host a successful backyard bash!

Sweet and Spicy Baked Beans

This recipe is a hit with guests and family. It's sweet, simple and delicious, and someone always asks for the recipe. —Elliot Wesen, Arlington, Texas

Chunky Ketchup

I created this chunky homemade ketchup to jazz up chopped steak sandwiches and hot sausage sandwiches for my family. It's so delicious and fresh-tasting. I gave some to our friends, too, and they enjoyed it on hamburgers and even stuffed peppers. —Susan Stahr, Driftwood, Pennsylvania

Old-Fashioned Coney Hot Dog Sauce

Camping and hot dogs go hand in hand. Roast some up over the fire, then top with this irresistible one-pot sauce. —Loriann Cargill Bustos, Phoenix, Arizona

Crisp Onion Relish

I take this relish to picnics for people to use as a condiment on hamburgers and hot dogs. It adds a special zip! —Marie Patkau, Hanley Saskatchewan

Emily's Honey Lime Coleslaw

Here's a refreshing take on slaw with a honey-lime vinaigrette rather than the traditional mayo. It's a great take-along for all those summer picnics. —Emily Tyra, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Honey Mustard Red Potato Salad

This summer cookout star is crunchy-delicious with a brilliant zesty dressing. —Brittany Allyn, Mesa, Arizona

Favorite Bread & Butter Pickles

I made these pickles while growing up and love them because you can eat them with just about anything. Now, both of my children love these pickles, too. I think you'll enjoy them as much as we do! —Linda Weger, Robinson, Illinois

Rainbow Fruit Salad

When my children were young, I would often dress up fresh fruit in this easy salad. Decades later, my grandchildren and great-grandchildren still love digging in to the fruity layers. The salad goes well with barbecued meats or cold sandwiches. —Jonnie Adams Sisler, Stevensville, Montana

Banana Split Dessert

Here's a mouthwatering make-ahead dessert that looks scrumptious and tastes as good as it looks! —Elmer Thorsheim, Radcliffe, Iowa

Mushroom-Stuffed Cheeseburgers

No need to call my family twice when these burgers are on the menu. Get ahead of the game and stuff them ahead of time, then grill later. — Joyce Guth, Mohnton, Pennsylvania

Jersey-Style Hot Dogs

I grew up in northern New Jersey, where hot dogs with grilled potatoes were born. It's a combo you'll love. —Suzanne Banfield, Basking Ridge, New Jersey

Double Hot Horseradish Mustard

My family enjoys spicy food so this recipe is wonderful for us. We add it to sandwiches.—Madeline Cole, Willow, Alaska

Kansas Cucumber Salad

Cucumbers are my very favorite garden vegetable, so I use this recipe often. I got it from a friend years ago. I've heard this refreshing dish keeps very well in the refrigerator, but it goes so fast around our house, I've never found out for myself. —Karen Ann Bland, Gove, Kansas

Grilled Sweet Corn

Since we have plenty of fresh sweet corn available in our area, we use this recipe often in summer. Parsley, chili powder and cumin accent the corn's just-picked flavor. —Connie Lou Hollister, Lake Odessa, Michigan

Strawberry-Rhubarb Ice Pops

These cool, creamy pops are a deliciously different way to use up the bounty from your rhubarb patch. —Donna Linihan, Moncton, New Brunswick

Wagon Wheel Pasta Salad

Summertime gatherings aren't complete without a refreshing pasta salad. This tasty version features a mayonnaise and picante dressing. It may become one of your favorite side dishes for tacos, too! —Kathryn Donahey, Oil City, Pennsylvania

Watermelon Tomato Salad

Watermelon and tomatoes may seem an unlikely pair, but they team up to make a winning combination in this eye-catching salad. —Matthew Denton, Seattle, Washington

Balsamic Three-Bean Salad

Here's my little girl's favorite salad. She devours it just about as fast as I can make it. I suggest preparing it ahead of time so the flavors can get to know each other. —Stacey Feather, Jay, Oklahoma

Peach Crumb Bars

I had the most beautiful peaches and really wanted to bake with them. I started with my blueberry crumb bar recipe, and after a couple of tries, I was so happy with the results. My co-worker taste testers were, too! —Amy Burns, Newman, Illinois

Barbecued Burgers

I can't take all the credit for these winning burgers. My husband's uncle passed down the special barbecue sauce recipe. We love it on everything...it was only natural to try it on, and in, burgers. Add cheese and bacon to take them over the top. —Rhoda Troyer, Glenford, Ohio

White Balsamic Blueberry, Corn and Feta Salad

I'm not typically a huge fan of summer corn, but when it comes to this sweet, salty, refreshing salad, I can't put my fork down. —Colleen Delawder, Herndon, Virginia

Cran-Orange Couscous Salad

I often create salads for summer using a variety of healthy, filling grains. This version with tender couscous is amped up by the bright flavors of oranges, cranberries, basil and a touch of fennel. —Kristen Heigl, Staten Island, New York

Sparkling Fruit Salad

Pineapple chunks, mandarin oranges, strawberries and grapes are treated to a dressing of wine and sparkling club soda in this delightful salad. Serve in dessert dishes or set the whole bowl on the table for a fetching presentation. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Grilled Bean Burgers

These juicy veggie patties have major flavor with cumin, garlic and a little chili powder. They hold their own against any veggie burger you'd buy at the supermarket. —Marguerite Shaeffer, Sewell, New Jersey

Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Cobbler

This cobbler came about because I love chocolate-covered strawberries. Top it with whipped cream, either plain or with a little chocolate syrup stirred in. —Andrea Bolden, Unionville, Tennessee

Sweet & Salty Peanut Butter Bites

My son Micah and I love peanut butter cups, so we made them into a new treat. We entered these peanut butter no bake cookies in a creative baking contest and won first place! —Autumn Emigh, Gahanna, Ohio

Smoky Grilled Corn Salsa

Our backyard grill is the perfect place to cook up the ingredients for homemade corn salsa. It's yummy with tortilla chips and as a topping for meat, poultry and fish. —Alicia DeWolfe, Gloucester, Massachusetts

Almond Coleslaw

As a twist to my mother's original recipe, I added toasted almonds for more crunch, taste and nutrition. —Sarah Nevin, Gila, New Mexico

Dr Pepper BBQ Sauce

My family is stationed in Italy with my husband, Lieutenant William Robert Blackman. William grew up in Memphis, Tennessee, and I'm from Texas, so the dish that spells "home" for us is a good ol' barbecue. I have my own recipe for barbecue sauce that we like to pour all over sliced brisket. Eating it reminds us of weekend barbecues with our families. —Tina Blackman, Naples, Italy

Oatmeal Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches

If you're tight on time, you can use store-bought cookies, but I highly recommend making these oatmeal chocolate cookies from scratch. The dessert sandwiches are pure fun. Sometimes I decorate the sides of the sandwiches with colorful jimmies, too. —Diane Halferty, Corpus Christi, Texas

Frozen Peach Pies

A refreshing, peachy filling and a buttery graham cracker crust are the perfect pair. I've found that this pie can be frozen up to three days. —Athena M. Russell, Florence, South Carolina

Barbecue Sliders

When guests dropped in by surprise, all I had was sausage and ground beef defrosted. We combined the two for juicy burgers on the grill. —B.J. Larsen, Erie, Colorado

Slow-Cooker Blueberry Cobbler

I love blueberries, and this easy cake mix cobbler showcases them deliciously. Serve the treat warm with a big scoop of French vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. —Teri Rasey, Cadillac, Michigan

Banana Split Fluff

This pretty pink mixture, rich with yummy fruit and nuts, is sure to disappear in a hurry. It's a sweet and speedy treat that can be served as a dessert or salad. —Anne Powers, Munford, Alabama

S'more Sandwich Cookies

Capture the taste of campfire s'mores in your kitchen. Graham cracker crumbs added to chocolate chip cookie dough bring out the flavor of the fireside favorite. Melting the cookies' marshmallow centers in the microwave makes them simple to assemble. —Abby Metzger, Larchwood, Iowa

Barbecue Seasoning

I use this BBQ seasoning on country-style ribs, pork chops and chicken. You'll likely have all of the seasonings on hand to make a batch, and if you don't use it all, it will keep for the next time. —Rose Rainier, Sheridan Wyoming

Bacon-Wrapped Hot Dogs

Here's a juicy, delicious and savory meal in a bun! I make these bacon-wrapped hot dogs for picnics, barbecues and tailgate parties, and they always get compliments. To transport, wrap the hot dogs in foil and then in paper. —Peter Halferty, Corpus Christi, Texas

Blueberry Lattice Bars

Since our area has an annual blueberry festival, my daughters and I are always looking for new berry recipes to enter in the cooking contest. These lovely, yummy bars won a blue ribbon one year. —Debbie Ayers, Baileyville, Maine

Watermelon Slice Cookies

Once when I made these butter cookies for a party, a neighbor thought they were so attractive that she froze one to show friends. They're easy to make, too! —Sue Ann Benham, Valparaiso, Indiana

Creamy Layered Blueberry Ice Pops

These delicious ice pops can also be made with raspberries or blackberries. The rosemary sprig and lemon zest bring another layer of flavor. The pops are quick, easy, kid-friendly and freezable. —Gloria Bradley, Naperville, Illinois

Start with a Simple Menu

For a casual backyard get-together, there's no need to overcomplicate your menu. All you have to do is start with the basics: burgers and hot dogs (or any variation thereof). Once you've perfected your burger making and grilling technique, you can let your guests take care of the rest with an assortment of toppings that let them customize their burger. Here are some burger ideas to start with:

King Burgers

My husband and I like to make up recipes together. The sauce for this juicy burger tastes even better when it has been refrigerated overnight. —Mary Potter, Sterling Heights, Michigan

BBQ Yumburgers

If you top them with extra barbecue sauce, you get both onions and sauce inside and out of these burgers. My husband loves to add cheese, too. —Donna Hoye, Whitmore Lake, Michigan

Spicy Cajun Salsa Burgers

Use a few on-hand seasonings like Creole, red pepper flakes and garlic powder to create these flavorful and juicy burgers. —David Dalton, Orleans, Indiana

Garlic-Herb Salmon Sliders

The fresh flavors of the salmon and herbs are just unbeatable. I serve these as full-size burgers on kaiser rolls, too. —Margee Berry, White Salmon, Washington

Basil Burgers with Sun-Dried Tomato Mayonnaise

I often end up with a bumper crop of herbs—and here's one of my favorite basil recipes. These burgers feature great Italian flavor. The gooey, cheesy centers and scrumptious topping are irresistible. —Virginia Kochis, Springfield, Virginia

Unstuffed Jalapeno Popper Burgers

This sassy, grown-up burger has a little bit of bite and a whole lot of flavor! Our taste panel couldn't stop eating this knife-and-fork sandwich. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Loaded Turkey Sliders

What these sliders lack in size they make up for in flavor! They're great for little hands and you can customize the toppings to suit kids' tastes. Serve them as an appetizer or as a main dish along with sweet potato fries and fresh fruit. —Kathy DeRousie, Port Angeles, Washington

Southwestern Backyard Burgers

Whether you're in the stadium parking lot or on your patio, these Southwestern-style burgers are great on the grill. Sometimes I make six patties rather than eight because I like my burgers bigger and better! —Robert Hodges, San Diego, California

Mushroom-Stuffed Cheeseburgers

No need to call my family twice when these burgers are on the menu. Get ahead of the game and stuff them ahead of time, then grill later. — Joyce Guth, Mohnton, Pennsylvania

Barbecued Burgers

I can't take all the credit for these winning burgers. My husband's uncle passed down the special barbecue sauce recipe. We love it on everything...it was only natural to try it on, and in, burgers. Add cheese and bacon to take them over the top. —Rhoda Troyer, Glenford, Ohio

Makeover Turkey Burgers with Peach Mayo

The unique fruit and mayo combination puts this burger over the top. You can also substitute nectarines for the peaches. They're both delicious! —Charlene Chambers, Ormond Beach, Florida

Corn & Blue Burgers

Take one all-American patty and load it up Iowa-style with fresh corn, Maytag blue cheese and pickle relish. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Grilled Spinach Feta Burgers

Turkey burgers have their fans, but we prefer feta burgers with ground beef and spinach. We serve them on toasted buns with lettuce, tomato and tzatziki. —Susan Stetzel, Gainesville, New York

Jalapeno Burgers with Gorgonzola

On a whim, we mixed homemade jalapeno jam into ground beef patties, then topped the burgers with caramelized onions and tangy Gorgonzola cheese. Fabulous! —Becky Mollenkamp, St. Louis, Missouri

Barley Beef Burgers

Barley adds another dimension to an old-fashioned hamburger. My husband and I really enjoy these juicy patties with onion and barbecue sauce mixed right in. —Rosella Peters, Gull Lake, Saskatchewan

Salmon Burgers with Tangy Slaw

I thought I'd made salmon every way you can make it, until now. The tangy slaw, made with fennel and avocado, adds another layer of flavor that goes surprisingly well with salmon and other seafood. —Amber Massey, Argyle, Texas

Whiskey Cheddar Burgers

This juicy cheeseburger has big flavors to satisfy even the heartiest appetites. It always impresses at our cookouts. —Amber Nicholson, Winooski, Vermont

Black Bean Chip & Dip Burgers

I finally invented a healthy quinoa burger that wasn't dry and crumbly or really boring. These fit the bill—even my grandkids prefer them over hamburgers. They taste like chips and dip in a burger! —KT Rehrig, Allentown, Pennsylvania

Sun-Dried Tomato Turkey Burgers

This recipe always brings back memories of my mom's homemade sun-dried tomatoes in the summer. I've prepared the burgers with ground beef and ground turkey. Either way, they're fast and taste great! —Sammy Staab, Pensacola, Florida

Burger Americana

Go on a burger road trip in your own backyard. Grill the patties and load them sky-high with your favorite toppings. For instance, peanut butter and bacon make them southern style; coleslaw and tomatoes, a northern version. —Susan Mahaney, New Hartford, New York

Big Brisket Burgers

Take one all-American patty and load it up Texas-style with brisket on Texas toast. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Turkey Burgers with Mango Salsa

This cookout recipe always has everyone talking. The secret is mixing a creamy, spreadable cheese into the turkey patties. It gives them lots of flavor without overpowering the burger. —Nancee Melin, Tucson, Arizona

Feta Mushroom Burgers

I got this recipe from my son-in-law and I tweaked it to make it healthier. The burgers are so quick to whip up on the grill on busy nights. —Dolores Block, Frankenmuth, Michigan

Grilled Ground Turkey Burgers

These juicy, tender patties on whole wheat buns make a wholesome, satisfying sandwich. We especially like to grill this turkey burger recipe, but you could also pan-fry them. —Sherry Hulsman, Elkton, Florida

Chili-Cheese Burgers

Instead of topping my burgers with cheese, I like to shred it and mix it into the meat when shaping the patties. This way, I'm sure to get a little cheesy goodness in every bite. —Deborah Williams, Peoria, Arizona

Eggs Benedict Burgers

To feed my daughter's hungry cowboy friends after a rodeo, I created these with leftover burgers, hollandaise and bacon. They were a huge hit! —Bonnie Geavaras-Bootz, Scottsdale, Arizona

Green Chili Burgers

Take one all-American patty and load it up New Mexico-style with smoky cheese and chopped green chilies. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Sweet & Spicy Fusion Burgers

These burgers combine some of my favorite flavors and textures, plus you can do most of the work ahead of time. You'll find naan, an Indian flatbread, in the international or bread section of your grocery store. —Jamie Brown-Miller, Napa, California

Greek-Style Chicken Burgers

The original recipe for these burgers called for lamb or beef, but I decided to try ground chicken to decrease the fat. The sauce easily doubles as a flavorful dip for veggies and pita chips. —Judy Puskas, Wallaceburg, Ontario

Herb & Cheese-Stuffed Burgers

Tired of the same old ground beef recipes? This quick-fix burger alternative, with its creamy cheese filling, will wake up your taste buds. —Sherri Cox, Lucasville, Ohio

Thai Turkey Burgers

When we're tired of everyday burgers, I make these turkey patties for a taste of Thailand. The slaw is a fun switch from the traditional burger garnishes. —Shelby Goddard, Baton Rouge, Louisiana

Open-Face Chicken Parmesan Burgers

We love chicken Parmesan and thought, "Why not make it a burger?" I like to use fresh mozzarella on these. I've also made the patties with ground turkey. —Charlotte Gehle, Brownstown, Michigan

Philly Burger

The cream cheese mixture and crunchy french-fried onions make this burger recipe a cookout sensation. Serve them with fresh potato salad and a fruit salad, and dinner is done! —Marjorie Carey, Alamosa, Colorado

Cheddar Chili Burgers

Big, bold chili and french-fried onions are a fun alternative to the classic burger fixings of ketchup and mustard. The patties are easy to assemble, making this a great weeknight sandwich. —Sue Ross, Casa Grande, Arizona

And you can have plenty of fun with hot dogs, too. Our favorite way to jazz them up is with regionally-inspired toppings. It's a fun way for folks to share a bit about where they're from and show off their creative side. Here are some of our favorite ideas:

• Chicago:yellow mustard, white onion, pickle relish, pickle spear, tomato, sport peppers, celery salt
• Detroit:Coney sauce, mustard onion
• Kansas City: cheese, sauerkraut, caraway seeds, thousand island dressing
• Philadelphia: Cheez Whiz, sauteed peppers, onions and mushrooms
• Nashville: Chicken hot dog, hot sauce, cayenne, mayo, sliced pickles
• Los Angeles: bacon, grilled onions, jalapenos, salsa
• Milwaukee:cheese curds, beer mustard, Cheez Whiz
• New Jersey:peppers, onions, grilled potatoes
• Seattle:cream cheese, cheddar, onion, jalapeno
• Tucson: Wrapped in bacon, topped with pinto beans, chopped tomatoes, diced raw onion, avocado, mayo, jalapenos; piled on a bolillo roll

Summer-Ready Sides and Sips for Backyard Entertaining

As for the side dishes and desserts for your party, ask your friends, family and neighbors to bring a dish to pass. Everyone has a go-to summer potluck recipe or two that they'd love to share. And if you don't feel like turning on the oven on a summer day, try these icebox desserts that are always smash hits.

When it comes to backyard sips, there's no shame in stocking up on the classics, like a good craft beer (here's the best from each state). You can also whip up a big batch of one of these non-alcoholic drinks—they're sure to please all kinds of partygoers. Whatever you serve, check out these drink accessories that'll keep beverages chilled and at the ready.

Lemony Fruit Cooler

This punch looks so pretty with all the colorful fruit floating in the bowl. It has a refreshing taste and is easy to put together. —Dawn Shackelford, Fort Worth, Texas

Lemon-Basil Mojito Mocktails

In this twist on the classic summer beverage, lemon and basil take the place of mint. For a grown-up version, just add your favorite rum or vodka. —Cheryl Perry, Hertford, North Carolina

Tomato-Lime Sipper

It's easy to make lots of this in advance. Everybody loves a bloody Mary—and this virgin version's not too spicy, either.—Bonnie Hawkins, Elkhorn, Wisconsin

Raspberry Fizz

As a festive, non-alcoholic beverage for adults, our Test Kitchen staff came up with this pretty pink drink. It has a mild raspberry flavor and isn't overly sweet.

Iced Melon Moroccan Mint Tea

I grow mint on my balcony, and this refreshing beverage is a wonderful way to use it. It combines two of my favorite drinks—Moroccan Mint Tea and Honeydew Agua Fresca. For extra flair, add some ginger ale. —Sarah Batt Throne, El Cerrito, California

Cranberry Limeade

When cranberry and lime juice get together, the result is thirst-quenching. Add ice and you've got a party in a glass. —Michael Passow, Poughkeepsie, New York

Blackberry Shrub

Making a shrub recipe is a creative way to use up extra fruit all the way through Labor Day. We were inspired by sampling the house-made shrubs at a restaurant in California. They are as colorful and refreshing as summer drinks should be. —Gina Nistico, Denver, Colorado

Rosemary Lemonade

A friend suggested I add a sprig of rosemary to lemonade. The herb makes the drink taste fresh and light, and it's a pretty garnish. —Dixie Graham, Rancho Cucamonga, California

Watermelon-Lime Cooler

When temps heat up, chill some glasses and cool down with a slushy blend of watermelon, lime and ginger ale. Slurp and repeat. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Strawberry-Basil Refresher

Fresh strawberries and basil are everywhere, so get them together for a cooler that's pure sunshine. I garnish with basil leaves and sip outdoors. —Carolyn Turner, Reno, Nevada

Iced Honeydew Mint Tea

I grow mint in the garden on my balcony. For this tea, I blend two of my favorite beverages—Moroccan mint tea and honeydew agua fresca. —Sarah Batt Throne, El Cerrito, California

Watermelon-Strawberry Cooler

My family gulps this frosty cooler because we love, love, love watermelon. The strawberries give it an extra pop. This is a perfect drink for Texas heat. —Joan Hallford, North Richland Hills, Texas

Rhubarb Mint Tea

A bumper crop of rhubarb and mint from my garden inspired me to create this thirst-quenching pick-me-up. Raspberries deepen the tea's vibrant red color, making the drinks a pretty addition to your table. —Laurie Bock, Lynden, Washington

Grilled Lemon & Thyme Lemonade

We use our grill for most summer dinners, so we thought, "why not grill the lemonade?" The flavor is surprisingly smooth, with just the right amount of honey and herbs. We call it Thyme for Lemonade. —Susan Jordan, Denver, Colorado

Cranberry-Grape Spritzer

The bold colors of cranberries and grapes make them stand out in the juice category, but club soda adds the sparkle that delivers true refreshment. Add ice cubes and a slice of lemon for the full effect. —Karen Schwabenlender, Waxhaw, North Carolina

Pretty Pink Punch

This refreshing punch is convenient because you can make it ahead of time and just add the ginger ale just before serving. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Lemon Ice Tea Mix

A friend who has a large family and does a lot of entertaining created this mix. It's inexpensive and makes a tasty, refreshing batch of tea. —Linda Fox, Soldotna, Alaska

Banana Brunch Punch

A cold glass of refreshing punch really brightens a brunch. It's nice to serve a crisp beverage like this that's more spectacular than plain juice. With bananas, orange juice and lemonade, it can add tropical flair to a winter day. —Mary Anne McWhirter, Pearland, Texas

Virgin Hurricanes

Revelers of all ages can enjoy a nonalcoholic version of the punchlike refresher that's often called Mardi Gras in a glass. Adults who want a more authentic flavor can mix in rum. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Orange Lemonade

This juice is a favorite at our place. I'll often double the batch and send a jar next door to my mother-in-law! I was looking for a way to sweeten lemonade without using more sugar when I came up with the recipe. —Wendy Masters, Grand Valley, Ontario

Sensational Slush

Colorful and refreshing, this sweet-tart slush has become a family favorite. I freeze the mix in 2- and 4-cup containers so it can be served in small portions for individuals or the whole family. I also freeze crushed strawberries to make preparation simpler. —Connie Friesen, Altona, Manitoba

Lemon Lime Punch

This frothy refresher topped with lime sherbet is a longtime family favorite and the best punch I've ever had. It's fast, festive and easy to mix up for a variety of occasions. —Mary Ray, Raccoon, Kentucky

Sparkling Cranberry Kiss

I love the tartness of cranberries in cold beverages, and this recipe is easily doubled, tripled or even quadrupled. —Shannon Arthur, Wheelersburg, Ohio

Pink Rhubarb Punch

Rhubarb is the featured ingredient in this blush-colored punch. A friend passed the recipe on to me, and we enjoy it so much that I thought others might, too. —Rebecca Mininger, Jeromesville, Ohio

Golden Fruit Punch with Ice Ring

This is a refreshing punch that isn't as sweet as most. My family loves the tart "wake-me-up" flavor. As an added bonus, this punch won't stain carpeting the way a red punch would! —Cindy Steffen, Cedarburg, Wisconsin

Raspberry Lemonade Concentrate

Here's a concentrate that allows you to enjoy a refreshing summer beverage any time of year. Sweet raspberries balance the tartness from lemons. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Sparkling Punch

As a table brightener, fix a bowl of festive fruity punch—it's a refreshing beverage you can mix together in moments. To dress it up even more, I add an ice ring filled with oranges, lemons and cranberries. —Karen Ann Bland, Gove, Kansas

All-Occasion Punch

To keep the punch cold while adding extra color, I like to make an ice ring out of cherry soda pop. The flavor always brings folks back for more. —Carol Van Sickle, Versailles, Kentucky

Hot Spiced Lemon Drink

I received this recipe from a lady in our church who is an excellent cook. She has shared several slow-cooker recipes with us. We really enjoy the sweet-tangy flavor of this warm citrus punch. —Mandy Wright, Springville, Utah

Strawberry Party Punch

After a spicy snack, cool your palate with this festive and fruity punch. Let guests help themselves at the punch bowl, or serve it by the glass with pretty fruit garnishes.—Deirdre Cox, Kansas City, Missouri

Minty Tea Punch

Forget sugary (and boring) sodas for your next potluck and treat your family and friends to a refreshing homemade punch. —Crystal Bruns, Iliff, Colorado

Keep the Fun Going with Backyard Games

Before you light the grill or breakout the icebox cake, keep your company entertained with some fun yard games. A little friendly competition will get friends and neighbors chatting, giving you all the time you need to grill up those perfect burgers.

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Tumbling Tipsy Jenga Tower

This tumbling block tower has a dozen pieces that secretly hold Jell-O shots! This is the perfect outdoor game for adults, but it can be easily adapted for a family to play—just omit the vodka and the Jell-O cups become a refreshing mid-game treat. Looking for more party inspiration? Here are some tips on how to host a backyard bash. Why it made our list: This giant Jenga tower stacks over five feet tall for tons of fun. Shop Now

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Cornhole Set

Cornhole is easily one of the most popular outdoor party games. Get ready to work on your hand-eye coordination with this set, because tossing the beanbag into the hole is way harder than it looks. Why it made our list: We love this set's fun, retro design. Shop Now

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Badminton Set

If you want to get competitive, you'll need a net to play badminton. But it's just as fun to hit the shuttlecock back and forth in the grass! This badminton set is portable enough to bring anywhere, from picnicking at the park to enjoying a day at beach. Why it made our list: This set includes two durable badminton bags that make the game easy to transport and store. Shop Now

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Bocce Ball

Bocce is one of those games that's great for family gatherings, regardless of whether or not you've played before. This colorful set is the perfect addition to any picnic. The rules are easy enough to learn, so anyone can jump right into playing this classic game in no time. Why it made our list: This bocce set includes a carrying case that you can monogram with your family name! Shop Now

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Tug of War

Do you remember playing Tug of War as a kid? Bring back the retro game with this heavy-duty rope. Its 12-foot length lets you play with as many as four pullers per team. Fun! Why it made our list: It includes everything you need to get started. Shop Now

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Water Balloons

Play the ultimate game of tag with water balloons or organize a classic water balloon toss. They're perfect for cooling down on hot, summer days. And these balloons are made with recycled plastic. Why it made our list: This pack comes with 265 balloons for hours of fun. And the best part? They're quick-fill and self-sealing! Shop Now

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Spikeball

This four-person team game will have your entire party cheering. Think volleyball-meets-trampoline! And while it might look intimidating, playing is easier than you think. It's a fun way to get a little exercise while enjoying the great outdoors. Why it made our list: It easily breaks down to fit into one, convenient bag for carrying. Shop Now

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Lawn Bowling

Who needs a bowling alley when you can play a game outside in the grass? This lawn bowling set is perfect for any family game night. Why it made our list: The inflatable pins and ball make for jumbo-sized fun. Shop Now

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Giant Connect 4 in a Row

This life-sized version of Connect 4 is a must for your family's collection of outdoor games. The board folds down to fit inside the carrying case, and all the game pieces fit inside the zippered pockets. Why it made our list: You can easily set it up in just minutes and it's fun for all ages. Shop Now

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Chipping Game

Golf meets cornhole in this fun outdoor game. Set up your Chippo boards on the beach or in the backyard for hours of fun! Use the chipping mats to putt your ball into the hole and earn points for every shot. Why it made our list: The boards include storage compartments and the legs fold down to make transportation easier. Shop Now

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Croquet

Pick up this all-inclusive set to host a croquet tournament in your backyard. If you've never played before, get ready to become addicted to this classic yard game. (It's all in the wrist!) Why it made our list: This set has enough mallets and balls for six players! Shop Now

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Ring Toss

Ring Toss is the perfect game for kids. The rules are simple and straightforward, and it only takes a few practice rounds to get the hang of it. Why it made our list: We love that it packs up for easy transportation and storage. Shop Now

via amazon.com

Supersized Pong

If you've ever played beer pong at a party, you'll have a blast with this supersized version. The cups are collapsible and the ball inflates, so it's easy to pack and even easier to set up, whether you're at the beach or in the backyard. Why it made our list: You have the choice to omit the alcohol and make it kid-friendly, too! Shop Now

via wayfair.com

Ladder Golf

Test your hand-eye coordination by tossing bolas at your next backyard barbecue. This set is constructed from wood, so it's sturdier than the plastic versions. Plus, there's even bottle openers built into the side! Why it made our list: The colors are as pretty as can be! Shop Now

via wayfair.com

Rubber Horseshoes

You don't have to permanently install a horseshoe pit in the backyard to enjoy this classic game. Take this set with you everywhere for fun on the go. Why it made our list: Because the set is rubber, there's even the option for indoor play if your party gets rained out. Shop Now

via llbean.com

Jumbo Checkers and Chess

Few games are as classic as checkers and chess, but this set takes it up a notch. Set up this jumbo set on the lawn or even on the porch. Just don't get stuck with a checkmate! Why it made our list: You get two games in one! Shop Now

via amazon.com

Trail Flyer Toss Game

It's not always possible to lug a wooden cornhole board to your picnic, tailgate party or campout. This portable game can be set up in just seconds, providing play for two to four people. Plus, its weatherproof so you can leave it up at the campground the entire weekend. Why it made our list: It's eco-conscious as well. The discs are made from recycled plastic bottles! Shop Now

Don't Forget the Extra Touches

Burgers? Check. Buns? Check. Games? Double-check. Once you have the basics on hand for your casual backyard party, it can be easy to call your party planning done. But don't forget those extra touches that will make your guests more comfortable. Here are some ideas to keep in mind as you prep for your soiree:

• Have sunblock on hand.One application isn't enough for a full day of fun. Keep a bottle or two of sunblock ready for guests to reapply.
• Set up all your seating.Pull out all your lawn chairs and dust off the patio set. Sure, a backyard bash might be a casual affair, but make sure folks have somewhere to rest after a few rounds of croquet. If needed, have your neighbors bring a chair or two.
• Have some shade. If you plan on being outside all day in the sun, be sure to have some shady spots for folks that need a break from the heat. Pop open that patio umbrella and even invest in a few handheld fans.
• Get more ice.Is it just us or can you never have enough ice at a party? Grab an extra bag before the party begins to keep the coolers full and the drinks chilled.
• Send them home with a treat.Everyone likes something to take home. Grab some eco-friendly to-go boxes for friends to take home leftovers. You can even have some cookies prepped for party favors, too.

Discover More American Summer Party Guides:

Note: Every product is independently selected by our editors. If you buy something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Backyard Decorating Ideas For Parties

Source: https://preprod.tasteofhome.com/article/how-to-host-a-backyard-bash/

Posted by: haleyanswerpose.blogspot.com

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