Labor Day: The End of Summer Party
No summer would be complete without an official ending; A send off to the wonderful months that gave you that brutal sunburn. You’ve experienced too many good things during those hot months to let them slip away without some sort of formal goodbye.
Luckily, we have the great holiday known as Labor Day.
If you’re like me, its the last chance to gather up friends and family in the backyard and reminisce about the good times you have had over the last three months. Or it’s just an excuse to pull out the grill and throw down some steaks. That’s why I decided to help you spice up your Labor Day party with a few ideas from the web and from my personal party planning handbook.
Get your grill up to par this holiday by checking our grill parts finder.
Photo by jdavis via Flickr
– Learn how to put together the perfect (and cutest) outdoor feast by checking out this article from Martha Stewart. The article addresses ideas such as nifty planter centerpieces and the perfect iced tea recipe.
– Want to relax on your last holiday weekend of the summer? Then this article from Rachael Ray is worth a read. The entry lists some tasty recipes and table setting tips for those of you looking to wow your guests without breaking the bank (and your back).
Photo by ActionSteve via Flickr
I saved the best for last. A few my own personal party tips are listed below:
1) Play some backyard games: If you haven’t read our post on building a backyard gaming area, it’s worth a read before the big day. Games can make your outing memorable and fun for kids and adults of all ages. Whether you want to play a casual game of croquet or bring the boys together for a serious game of horseshoes, this is the way to do it. It’s the kind of activity your guests will be sure not to forget. Examples include: Water Balloons, Horseshoes, Croquet, Badminton, Corn Hole, Cards.
2) Stock up on drinks: This one might seem like a gimme to most people, but its importance is worth stating more that once. A cold beverage is never as satisfying as it is during the hot summer months. What better way to commemorate the ending of a great summer than with a cold lemonade or iced tea. And for all the adults out there, make sure you’re well stocked on the booze and cerveza. If you want to get a little fancy, check out this list of great summer drink recipes.
3) Play some good music: Lets face it, what’s a party without music? If you want to throw the party of the century and go all out for a live band, I say more power to you. Unfortunately, most of us won’t go that route. That’s why it’s important to have a good collection of music set up before the party. I recommend setting up a few mixes beforehand of some classics and modern music. Gear the musical selection towards your guests. Keep in mind, music is meant to enhance the party not be the party. And remember, whatever you do, leave Jimmy Buffet off of the playlist.
So get out the party favors, raid the meat isle, open up the address book, and start planning your Labor Day party!
