Entertainment: Backyard party ideas in a pinch

by Ellen Garcia 12/29/2022

When it comes to outdoor entertainment, backyard design can make all the difference. Whether you have a tiny or sprawling backyard, there are many clever ways to set up your outdoor space for year-round fun.

Here are some quick tips for making a great backyard entertainment space at home:

Create space for yard games

Take the prep work out of backyard games by dedicating a specific part of your space to playing them. This will also give you somewhere for children and pets to play where they won’t interrupt quieter seating areas or outdoor kitchens.

Install a fire pit with Adirondack chairs

What better way to enjoy your backyard space than around a cozy fire? You can DIY a custom fire pit out of stone, bricks or other materials for perfect ambiance and campfire fun. Surround the fire pit with stylish and comfortable Adirondack chairs to encourage guests to stay awhile. 

Create a cozy outdoor movie theater

Skip the crowds and price tags of a public movie theater and create a personal viewing area in your own backyard. Using a folding screen, white sheet or a blank wall, you can project your favorite movies for you and your guests to enjoy. Make sure to include plenty of throw blankets and outdoor cushions in your movie seating area. 

Hang string lights for extra ambiance

Twinkling lights are essential to every outdoor oasis, and are available in various styles, lengths and price points. If you don’t have anywhere to hang them, you can create twinkling lanterns with glass jars.

Build a budget-friendly outdoor kitchen

You don’t need to spend a fortune to have a great place to cook a meal outdoors. Even if your patio is too small for a full outdoor kitchen, you can enjoy a nice outdoor meal with creativity. 

Start with the best outdoor grill (ideally equipped with side burners) and find a table or cart for extra prep space. Save space and money by repurposing outdoor furniture like an unused potting bench for a chic buffet setup instantly.

Section your yard into multiple zones

The key to making the best use of an enormous backyard is to create sections. For example, there may be areas where you can grill, enjoy active play, or simply sit in the shade. Create a spot for quiet conversation or solo contemplation slightly removed from the larger, entertainment-focused areas.

These are just a few backyard entertainment ideas you can try year-round. No matter the size or shape of your backyard, the right planning and setup will ensure a memorable outdoor party.

About the Author
Author

Ellen Garcia

Ellen Garcia Broker, GRI, SRS, ABR, RSPS, SRES, RENE, MRP, LRS, LSE, LSS, AHWD, e-PROÒ Ellen believes that listening and understanding her clients' needs are the foundation of a successful business partnership. Her knowledge of the many unique communities in Fairfield County is an invaluable asset to clients new to the area, and she is able to help anyone moving to, from or within Fairfield County make an easier transition into a new home and community. For clients who are preparing to sell their homes, Ellen offers her first-hand knowledge of how to leverage the strength of a "brand" in showcasing and marketing their properties. Ellen offers a powerful advantage in bringing her skills and resources to work for her clients. With over 10 years, of full-time experience in the real estate industry, she is well-versed in the Fairfield County real estate market. Ellen has successfully completed: · Over 130 closed sales and rental transactions · Representing a dollar volume of over $65 million Ellen’s people skills lead the way in building a strong network to assist and support her clients in achieving their goals through every step of the real estate process: · Negotiations both local and global · New business development (sales & marketing) · Creative problem solving · Building partnerships · Tapping into Halstead Property’s network of 1100 agents in NYC and Lower Fairfield County Her career in Real Estate has been recognized with many awards including: "Agent of the Year” for Halstead Property Wilton and "Most Closed Sale and Listing Transactions” numerous times. Within Connecticut, Ellen has been recognized over the past several years as a "Connecticut Magazine 5 Star Realtor”. Awards 2016 & 2014 AGENT OF THE YEAR – HALSTEAD WILTON – HIGHEST GROSS SALES 2016 - 2011 CONNECTICUT MAGAZINE 5-STAR REALTOR AWARD 2016 - 2013 MOST CLOSED LISTINGS – Wilton Office 2016, 2014 - 2012 MOST CLOSED SALES – Wilton Office 2016, 2015, 2014 HALSTEAD PROPERTY PRESIDENT’S COUNCIL 2013, 2012 & 2011 HALSTEAD PROPERTY DIRECTOR’S COUNCIL 2014 HALSTEAD – PLATINUM CIRCLE 2016 HALSTEAD - GOLD CIRCEL 2015, 2013 HALSTEAD – SILVER CIRCLE 2007 COUNTRY LIVING ASSOCIATES OUTSTANDING RELOCATION SPECIALIST PRESIDENT'S AWARD (2005, 2006 & 2007). Leading Real Estate Companies of the World PREMIER CLUB – SILVER AWARD FOR REFERRAL ACHIEVEMENT (2006) Sales Associates Recognition Program Professional Associations: · Connecticut Association of Realtors (CAR) · National Association of Realtors (NAR) · Consolidated Multiple Listing Service (CMLS) · Connecticut State-wide MLS (CTMLS) · Mid-Fairfield County Association of Realtors (MFCAR) · Senior Advantage Real Estate Council (SAREC) · Real Estate Buyer’s Agent Council (REBAC) · Seller’s Representative Specialist Council (SRS) · e-PRO Professional Designations: · BROKER · ABR (Accredited Buyer Representative) · SRS (Seller’s Representative Specialist) · RENE (Real Estate Negotiation Expert) · GRI (Graduate Realtor Institute) · RSPS (Resort and Second Property Specialist) · MRP (Military Relocation Professional) · SRES (Seniors Real Estate Specialist) · LRS (LeadingRE Relocation Specialist) · LSS (LeadingRE Sales Specialist) · LSE (LeadingRE Service Expert) · AHWD (At Home with Diversity: One America) · REALTOR e-PRO · CONNECTICUT TRUST FOR HISTORIC PRESERVATION