Winter, with its dropping temperatures and shorter days, may induce a shiver, but it’s actually an exceptional opportunity to entertain outdoors, spend some quiet time with a loved one, or enjoy a good book in the garden. Time spent in natural light and fresh air is a mood lifter. Plus, modern backyards are expensive, so why shut them down when the temperatures drop?
Site Selection
Location does more than just determine the maximum value of real estate. It’s also relevant for winter entertaining. Consider carefully: The ideal location is on the leeward (downwind) side of the house to protect guests. If that’s not possible, a fence, hedge, or other windblock will do. A covered area is best. Not available? Consider setting up the pop-up tent used for summer at the beach, or buy one on sale at an end-of-season sale.Bring the Heat
The glowing flames of a firepit bring guests together with their light and warmth, creating a cozy spot to gather around. They are available in two forms. Wood-burning styles offer a campfire feel with their natural smoke and crackling logs. They can double as a cooking spot, are typically the most affordable, and don’t require a fuel tank or gas line.
Spending time outdoors, even in colder months, can boost your mood. Anastasiia Krivenok/Getty Images
Gas-fueled fire pits fall into two subcategories. Natural gas models offer instant ignition, a consistent flame, and heat without any smoke, ash, or sparks. They are also cheaper to run than their propane cousin, but will need an initial gas hookup. Propane offers all the benefits of natural gas, but its tank style makes it easier to set up (no gas hookup required) and portable.
Patio heaters come in a wide range of shapes and sizes, from architectural designs to compact units that fit on a side table. Like fire pits, they are available in natural gas and propane. But the selection doesn’t stop there, as there are also hanging, umbrella-mounted, wall-mounted, and standing electric and infrared plug-in styles as well.
Cozy in the Cold
All of the above ambience will be instantly undone if guests have to sit on cold, hard seats. Break out the seat cushions and throw pillows. Keep them indoors in a warm spot in the house until they’re ready to be set out. Get some throw blankets as well for guests to wrap themselves in. Warm them in the dryer before use. Cluster the chairs, benches, and other seating in groups around the heat sources to promote social interaction. Consider stringing some patio lights for additional festivity for evening events.Setting a dress code? How about “favorite outerwear” (hats, scarves, gloves, and coats); it’s a theme that’s fun, a great conversation starter, and keeps everyone toasty warm.
Simple lighting adds a sense of celebration to outdoor spaces during darker winter evenings. Halfpoint Images/Getty Images
The Drinks List
Winter faves such as hot chocolate with whipped cream and marshmallows, relaxing herbal teas, and coffee or espresso, perhaps with a selection of flavored syrups, are always a hit when the temps drop. Spiced cider with cinnamon sticks, mulled wine, or hot toddies will also keep guests warm. Serve them in insulated cups.
Seasonal drinks such as hot chocolate, cider, or mulled wine also help create a cozy mood. Leeloo The First/Pexels
Grill in the Chill
Food tastes great with a nip in the air, but there are some challenges to grilling in winter. Start by placing the grill where it is sheltered from the wind for more even cooking. Charcoal grills will heat more slowly and require more charcoal to reach the desired temperature. The propane flow of a gas grill may be reduced due to an icy tank. Always measure food temperatures carefully and in several locations to ensure doneness.
Give the grill an extra thorough cleaning before firing it up for winter; frozen grease is extremely difficult to remove but must be done. Be sure to clean the grill after every use, and cover it as soon as it has cooled to protect it from frozen hinges, stuck knobs, an ice-filled drip tray, and other snow- and ice-related problems. Inspect the unit before each use for critters that may have made it their home and left nests or other waste behind.
Grilling in the winter can be an unexpectedly fun and rewarding activity. Mariyariya/Getty Images
Need a new grill or an upgrade? Now’s the time for off-season sales. Don’t know where to start? Simply type “Grill Clearance Sale” in Google to get a quick overview of retailers, models, and the latest discounts.
Make-Ahead Meals
Hosts who want to interact with their guests more than the grill should consider serving seasonal soups (pumpkin, butternut squash), casseroles (mac and cheese is always a hit), chili, roasted seasonal vegetables, and finger food—from puff pastries and mini quiches to brownie bites and mini apricot or other fruit-filled pies.Brrrr appétit!
Any occasion can be an excuse to gather friends and loved ones together. Mike Harrington/Getty Images
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