It’s summer in North Texas, which means it’s officially backyard party season. Get clued in on all the latest party trends — whether you’re hosting the neighborhood block party or an intimate get-together with friends. Here are some ways to hold a chic party right in the backyard of your DFW home.

Get Your Guests In On the Action

One of the newest party trends for summer is letting your guests get hands-on. Instead of a bunch of family and friends milling around your backyard, put them to work on some summer fun. Let them squeeze lemons for fresh lemonade, or invite them to crank an old-fashioned ice cream maker. The final treat just might rival some of DFW’s best ice cream.

Kick Up the Ambiance

If you really want your summer party to stand out, set the scene with lanterns, chalkboard signs, or a burlap garland (like these ones) draped along your fence. Vintage soda crates, another one of the hottest party trends, add a whimsical touch as well. Speaking of setting the scene …

Incorporate Natural Decor

You’re in the backyard, so make use of the flowers and foliage that’s already there. It’s more cost-effective than buying them, and it gives your party an extra-special feel. Clip a few buds and place them in mason jars on tables as centerpieces.

Go for Flavored Waters

This is one of those party trends that’s perfect for cooling off on a warm Dallas evening: flavored water. Fill a big glass drink dispenser with ice water flavored with healthy, fresh ingredients. Anything goes here: berries, lemon or lime slices, cucumber rounds, or fresh mint leaves. Try out a few flavor combinations and see what you like.

Create Different Party Zones

When your guests step into your backyard, give them a few options of where they’d like to hang out. For example, you could have a dining table, a fire-pit seating area, an outdoor bar, and a lounge area by your pool. If children will be at your summer bash, you could also include an area for fun games: cornhole, bocce ball, or even a station with water balloons.

Instead of sweating the details this summer, keep these simple party trends in mind for an unforgettable summer soiree. And, like any good party host in Texas, make sure you host your affair in the evening. It’s cooler, and an evening backyard party is perfect for watching the sun set in the big Texas sky. Who doesn’t love that?

Image Source: Flickr/Luke Ma

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