Get the grill ready. Clean up last year's model or splurge on a new one. You'll need to get rid of bugs or ashes and clean off the grate. Now you're ready to cook up some top-notch eats.

Have a theme party. Pick a fun theme for your next al fresco bash — like Luau, Texas BBQ, Louisiana Fish Grill, Tuscan Picnic or English Tea Party. For a stress-free soiree, make your even potluck and ask guests to bring themed sides.

Incorporate games, music and dancing to reflect the theme — hula dancing at the luau, outdoor bingo at the BBQ, a shrimp-eating contest at the Louisiana grill, a wine-tasting at the Tuscan picnic or a croquet tournament at the tea party. Don't forget to include the theme on your invitations and invite guests to dress up.

Pack a picnic. Head to the park for the ultimate to-go meal at your next gathering. Pack a cooler full of sandwiches and chips or a gourmet outdoor feast. Then put down a blanket and let the fun begin. More picnic recipes and tips >>

Throw a clambake. A traditional clambake is an all day affair on the beach. The end result is a delicious meal of clams, lobster, potatoes, corn, onions and sausages. Landlocked? You can create a clambake in your backyard or in the kitchen. Try out these clambake recipes at your next summer party.

Keep bugs away. Uninvited pests can break up even the best party. To prepare your space, spray for insects several hours before guests arrive to give the harsh smell time to dissipate. During the party, light citronella candles and keep bug spray handy.

Build a bar. Stock your bar full of all the summer essentials, and you'll be ready to quench any kind of thirst your partygoers have. Be sure to stock all the items on our bar checklist .

Serve a signature drink. Feature one drink all evening — be it a Bellini or a refreshing rum punch. Remember two rules: always use fresh juice/ingredients and always make a non-alcoholic version to include everyone in on the fun.

Have outdoor fondue. Get your guests cooking! Chop all the ingredients ahead of time, then set up hibachi grills where your fellow partiers can cook their own meat, fish and veggies. For dessert, fill small fondue pots with chocolate fondue and put out chopped fruit, pound cake and doughnut holes.

Set the mood. Entertaining outside doesn't mean you have to use paper plates and plastic picnic tables. To infuse your party with style, break out a linen tablecloth and nice dishes. Top off the tables with fresh-cut flowers from your garden or votive candles in floating flower glass bowls.