Easy Summer Outdoor Entertainment Tips

Summer will be a breeze with these easy outdoor entertainment tips! This post was sponsored by Blue Diamond® as part of an Influencer Activation and all opinions expressed in my post are my own.

I love to entertain, and hosting parties and get-togethers in the summer might be my favorite.

First, you can bring the party outdoors, which is always a good thing. Grilling, bonfires, yard games, and not making a mess inside the house? Sign me up.

I teamed up with Blue Diamond Almonds & Fruit (my new favorite summer snack) to bring you these easy outdoor entertainment tips. From the food to the decor, follow these tips to make your next summer gathering a breeze.

Summer Outdoor Entertainment Tips 101

The Food

Keep the food simple. I mean it.

I almost never cook for summer parties and outdoor entertaining. Instead, I put out plenty of snacks, fresh fruit, and grazing boards.

If you plan on serving more of a meal or full dinner, consider grilling and/or fresh, seasonal no-cook recipes.

But for me, snacks are my go-to. And my favorite simple but elegant snack is the new Blue Diamond Almonds & Fruit. I’m quite obsessed with these tasty snacks, featuring California almonds and real fruit. These are conveniently available at Walmart, and they make for a delicious and healthy summer grazing option.

I like to serve both the Fiery Ghost Pepper & Tart Cherry and the Sea Salt & Whole Blueberry for something sweet and something savory. Blue Diamond Almonds & Fruit is on the top of my easy summer outdoor entertainment tips list at the moment, as everyone is loving them!

Plus, you can get $1 back from your purchase on Ibotta now! (I love Ibotta, do you guys use it? You should!)

The Drinks

Think refreshing!

I love to have plenty of sparkling water, iced tea, lemonade, and fruit-infused water on hand. Getting creative with iced teas and lemonades is always a fun way to stay hydrated. Try watermelon iced tea, matcha lemonade, or strawberry Arnold Palmers.

A summer sangria is always a good idea, too.

For drinks, consider a beverage dispenser if you’re entertaining outdoors. It will keep the bugs out of your beverages and look nice at the same time.

The Decor

Like the food, the decor should be simple, too.

I love decorating with fresh flowers. I get a few small bouquets (peonies, sunflowers, marigolds, and dahlias are my favorite) and I break them up into tons of small mason jars and vases to place throughout the backyard. I find that several small bouquets spread around makes more of a statement than one or two large bouquets.

I also like to throw in herbs and goodies from the garden, like fresh lavender, blue basil, or mint. These make for pretty — and very fragrant — centerpieces.

For lighting, classic outdoor string lights and mason jar candles are my go-to. I have tons of these mini citronella mason jar candles that not only look adorable, but ward off unwanted guests.

Lastly, don’t forget those extra touches. Throw a nice, but inexpensive tablecloth over a folding table. Put out a cute bucket filled with ice and drinks. Lay a piece of amethyst on top of napkins so they don’t blow away. Little touches go a long way!

The Seating

Make sure you have plenty of seating for everyone, but if you don’t, don’t sweat it. You can create it!

You can dress up your extra not-so-attractive lawn chairs with some cute throw pillows, or put out picnic and outdoor blankets as extra seating.

Entice guests to choose the lawn blankets by placing oversized throw pillows on them for a cozier feel. If your guests are bringing kids, set out coloring books, puzzles, games, or craft stations on the blankets to keep the little ones entertained.

You can also repurpose your indoor seating. Bring those chairs, stools, and ottomans outside!

Lastly, have plenty of throw blankets on hand for when the sun sets and the temperatures drop. Your chilly guests will appreciate it.

Get This Party Started

One of my most important outdoor entertainment tips is, well, the entertainment!

Don’t let guests get bored. Have lawn games set up, fun music playing, and ideas for activities (from card games to conversation starters).

Make sure to plan things out. Just because it’s a more laid-back summer gathering, doesn’t mean you shouldn’t have some kind of an agenda. Know when the food is being served and when activities are happening. Plan for games during the day and an outdoor movie or bonfire at night.

No matter what, have fun!

With all these outdoor entertaining tips and tricks, you’re on your way to an easy and fun summer party in no time. Be sure to check out Blue Diamond Almonds & Fruit for your new favorite summer snack!

This post contains affiliate links and are always products I love and highly recommend.