This morning I shared all of these fun Big Game Day Football Party snack tips…
How to Celebrate Summer Safely and Easily with Friends- As Seen on TV!
Outdoor entertaining is back and there are so many fun ways to celebrate safely AND EASILY with friends.
Whether you’re planning a full on backyard BBQ or maybe just an impromptu hang-out with the neighbors, I’ve got plenty of fun, easy, and Covid-conscious tips to help get you there!
SPOILER ALERT: My secret strategy is based on something I call “The 2 S’s: Shortcuts and Sticks.”
Just remember that and you’ll be on your way to pandemic party planning with ease.
Check out all the tips I shared on-air at Fox 31.
Tip 1: As always—Keep things as Easy as Possible
It’s ok to take shortcuts especially if it results in a better experience for you and your guests.
My favorite new summer drink is this deliciously refreshing Watermelon Mint Lemonade. It’s super easy to make.
Ya know why?
Because I used pre-made lemonade, blended it with FRESH watermelon and mint and the result is amazing.
Check out the full recipe here.
Another great shortcut: try pre-made sandwiches.
I love these Raybern frozen Philly Cheesesteak sandwiches because you can stick them in the freezer to have on hand, then you just pop them in the microwave.
Microwave??? YES, I said Microwave-not toaster. Raybern’s spent years perfecting the perfect bread recipe that would work well in the microwave and create a “bakery soft” experience.
And it does!!!
If this sounds familiar, it’s because I also wrote about them in my Game Day food article last year. They’re that good!
Tip #2: Have hand sanitizer at the front of the food station area.
This seems pretty obvious, but it bears repeating. It can’t hurt to have an extra pump before folks get near the food.
Tip #3: Try and spread out the food area so people can socially distance if they prefer.
Tip #4: Wrap Cutlery in a napkin (like a nice restaurant)
This will keep all the cutlery clean and give a more festive feel.
Tip #5: Use Photo Booth Props for Decor
Grab some festive photo booth props and put them in a vase with some pretty marbles. This is a super easy way to add festive flair to your decor. You can get all the supplies for just a few dollars at Dollar Tree.
These photo booth props were actually just summer decorations that I bought in a pack for a dollar. I taped them to some kitchen skewers and…voila-instant photo booth props!
For more entertaining decor tips, check out my Big Game Party Tips post.
Tip #6: Try to limit the number of items folks will have to eat with their hands.
This comes down to a comfort level. Some people may not be comfortable eating finger foods in such a public setting. So having plenty of cutlery available is a nice option.
Tip #7: Get Creative-Think Country Fair Chic
We all love to joke about how country fair food is known for putting everything on a stick—but there’s a reason for that….it’s easy to eat and it’s fun!!! Which makes it the perfect execution for pandemic party food.
We’ve all done it before with fruit or veggie options, but you can also get creative and put your sandwiches on a stick!
Tip #8: Have light, healthy options available
August is known for heat waves so it’s always nice to have lighter fare for folks to munch on. This Avocado, Tomato, and Corn Salad is a perfect option!
Tip #9: Grab inspiration from the National Days Calendar
If you’re still looking for inspiration—check out the National Days Calendar. National Days are those fun, made-up holidays that were designed to inspire people to just…CELEBRATE.
Some August dates to think about are:
National Friendship Day (August 1), National Rootbeer Float Day (August 6), National Lemonade Day (August 20).
Related: Check out my yummy recipe for Root beer Float Popsicles and my super refreshing Watermelon Mint Lemonade.
Tip #10: Use your family’s favorite movie or book for inspiration.
We always turn to my kids’ favorite “Judy Moody and the Not Bummer Summer.” It’s THE PERFECT Book for kids living through a pandemic who do NOT want to have a Bummer summer.
Check out my posts on how to throw your own Judy Moody Not Bummer Summer party.
Your kids will love it!!!
Tip #11: Curate a fun summer playlist
My go-to favorites are Yacht Rock and anything Jimmy Buffett. For some fun Yacht Rock ideas, check out my top Yacht Rock Songs.
Looking for more great entertaining ideas?
Check out these related posts.
Keto-friendly Snacks-great for football parties
The Best Healthy and Kid-friendly Halloween Party Snacks
HI! I’m a Shana, self-proclaimed Media Mixologist, wife, and mom to two little girls. I love to mix up cocktails of crafts, recipes, wellness, family and business with just the right amount of sparkle to help you shine everyday. So, grab a glass, and let’s celebrate the cocktail of life!
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