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With the sun out and birds chirping, it’s time to take the party outside! Picture: a game night on the deck, backyard potluck, or leisurely afternoon of eating popsicles on the porch. Sounds nice, right?
To make it easier and more enjoyable to settle in beyond the living room, we rounded up a list of outdoor entertaining must-haves — from a tried-and-true misting fan and natural bug spray to pretty lightweight plates and a giant Jenga set.
Keep in mind: Research shows that friends appreciate when you reach out more than you might expect. So as you’re setting your table and making your playlist, take the pressure off. Inviting loved ones over is a kind gesture in itself — for both you and your guests.
For the Table
Atelier Saucier Rainbow Burlap Napkins
Looking for a simple way to make a table feel special? Swap single-use napkins for this pretty rainbow burlap set made in the U.S. with 100% reclaimed fabric. If you want to go the extra mile, pair them with these ’70s inspired rainbow floral napkin rings for an additional pop of personality.
Anthropologie Ramona Wine Glasses
Aside from the pretty two-toned colors, these wine glasses feature a sturdy (and sophisticated) stem, so your drink is less likely to tip over while sipping poolside or on your patio. And while the name has “wine” in it, they’re great for drinks of all kinds — from water to other non-alcoholic beverages.
Meri Meri Reusable Bamboo Cups
Whether you’re planning a little one’s birthday party or a just-because gathering, these cups check a lot of boxes: They’re lightweight, dishwasher safe, and versatile for both hot and cold drinks. Plus, each glass in the six-piece set comes in a different color, so you don’t have to choose just one.
Fortessa Modern Melamine Tableware Set
Want to enjoy your meal on a sturdy surface — without worrying about a plate shattering in your yard? A happy medium between paper plates and ceramic dishes, this tableware set is reusable, durable, and lightweight. Another option is this set of melamine plates that look like paper.
Meri Meri Gold Wooden Cutlery Set
Standing out from the cutlery crowd, these wooden utensils are decorated with a touch of shiny gold foil. Unlike other disposable options, they feel a bit weightier and less flimsy. We think they’re so cute that they make us want to throw a party just to use them.
Aedida Reusable Food Covers
So long, disposable wrap. These adorable and convenient cloth food covers will keep your potato salad away from pests while also helping you cut back on single-use waste. And you won’t likely have to purchase twice, as the set comes with 20 different pieces in five sizes.
For Staying Cool and Bug-Free
Ryobi One+ Misting Fan
This fan-meets-mister makes it easier to cool down on hot days. You simply pair it with a bucket of water (or hose) and direct it to the area where you’d like a refreshing breeze. Added perks: It’s battery-powered (no outlet necessary), powerful enough to make a tangible difference, and gentle on the ears. This writer’s family has used it on lots of hot days and it gets lots of praise!
Thermacell Mosquito Repellent Bundle
For those of you who live in mosquito-prone areas, Thermacell’s patio shield might be one of those gadgets you wish you’d had sooner. Similar to a diffuser, the device emits a scent-free repellant that helps create a 15-foot bug-free zone. Want to get more mosquito coverage? Check out the brand’s mosquito-repellent lanterns.
Murphy’s Naturals Bug Spray
Murphy’s all-natural bug spray is made from lemon eucalyptus oil, the only plant-based active ingredient recommended by the CDC as a DEET alternative. Nice News associate editor Ally Mauch picked it up during a trip to Yellowstone National Park and can vouch for its efficacy. The scent is a major step up from many of the other sprays on the market, and it doesn’t leave any sticky residue behind.
Igloo Trailmate 50-Quart Cooler
There are a lot of reasons to love Igloo’s Trailmate cooler. It holds up to 81 cans and is made with a foam-insulated lid and walls to keep ice cool for a long time. Plus, the rubber latches are a cinch to fasten and the side handles make it easy to maneuver. More perks: It comes with a built-in bottle opener, lockable lid, and subtle cup holders. Choose from three colors.
Float Joy Unicorn Sprinkler
The only thing better than running through a sprinkler? Running through a sprinkler that looks like a unicorn. This niece-approved cutie is surprisingly big (5 feet tall) and turns any backyard into a magical water park. Stakes are also included, so you don’t have to deal with it being blown over by the wind.
For Creating a Nice Vibe
JBL Clip 4
This waterproof portable speaker is great for keeping your playlist going indoors and outdoors. It’s easy to subtly pop on a patio table without taking up too much real estate — and although it’s small in size, it’s not lacking when it comes to sound quality and battery life. Bonus: It has a USB-C charging port, so you can use the same charger as many phones.
Brightown Solar-Powered String Lights
These waterproof, solar-powered string lights will transform your yard or patio into an awe-worthy wonderland. Each 36-foot strand features eight lighting modes, and they come in an array of aesthetic options, including standard and Moroccan-style bulbs in a variety of colors.
Paolfox 3-Piece Patio Set
There’s no question having a cozy place to sit is key to making an outdoor space more enjoyable. This three-piece wicker patio set is our pick to do just that. It’s practical when it comes to cleaning and withstanding weather changes, while its ergonomic armrests and thick cushions make it perfect for chatting, sipping a drink, and doing some birdwatching.
For Good Old-Fashioned Fun
Big Sur 600 Polaroid Camera
Polaroid cameras are all the rage again — and we’re especially partial to this one featuring artwork inspired by California’s Big Sur. It comes with a neck strap so you can avoid accidental drops and is made with refurbished camera parts, giving a second life to material that would likely otherwise be discarded. Plus, Parks Project is a Certified B Corp and has contributed over $2.6 million to help fund projects in parks across the country.
Miaowoof Homemade Popsicle Molds
In our books, popsicles are pretty much synonymous with a good time. You can’t go wrong with these silicone molds that make it easy to turn fruit juice, yogurt, and ice cream into the nostalgic treat. The set comes with a funnel, recipe ideas, sticks, and bags for storing your freshly-made popsicles in the freezer so you can get another batch going.
Jenga Giant
If you want to bring a little friendly competition outdoors, bust out Jenga Giant. Like the original tabletop version but bigger, the blocks stack to over 5 feet, taking any lawn party to the next level. The set also comes with a zippered bag so you can tuck the blocks back in when the party’s over.
GoSports Cornhole Boards
Our list wouldn’t be complete without the quintessential yard game. Sure to be a crowd-pleaser for little ones and adults alike, these cornhole boards are 100% solid wood and sturdy enough to hold up against (many) tosses. Just make sure to grab bean bags too!
Read more: Got a Green Thumb? Try These 16 Must-Have Gardening Products
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