Autumn Entertaining

As summer winds down to a close, you might be looking to host one last outdoor event before the snow flies. So today, I'll offer you a few ideas for fun outdoor parties that can be successfully hosted even during the chilly days of autumn.

• A bonfire is always a fun autumn activity. But if you are not permitted to light such a large fire in your area, then take advantage of all those end-of-season sales at your local garden supply store. You'd be amazed how much heat a couple dozen lit tiki torches, lanterns, fireworks, and jack-o-lanterns will put off when clustered together in your backyard.
  
  
• It's never to early to host your very own Oktoberfest! Let's be honest here, after a pint or two of good German beer, nobody is going to be feeling very chilly...
  
  
• Host a chili cook off. Let's face it - between the spicy chilies and the ensuing mushroom cloud of flatulence, people will be sweating in no time at all.
  
  
• Invite your friends over for a gypsy-themed dinner party. It's the perfect theme for outdoor entertaining, and it's easier than you might think. Simply open several cans of baked beans and warm them right over an open fire. Then, give all over you guests a shawl/blanket to keep warm in as they eat their can of beans. And finally, encourage the children to pick the pockets of all your guests. You and your guests will all have some cheap fun, and the children will get a little cash reward for running around and getting exercise instead of sitting inside playing video games. It's win, win!
  
  
• A good old fashioned barn raising, house painting, or leaf racking is also a great autumn party idea. So bribe some friends with promises of bacon, cookies, and hot cocoa; hand them whatever tool is necessary for the job; and get to work. After all, those leaves aren't going to rack themselves up...

Enjoy your autumn!