Summer Parties

The Great Outdoors — whether it's the woods or our neighborhood park — has always offered solace during challenging times. In this essay, writer Jesse Sparks shares the role it played in his life during quarantine.

Writer Latria N. Graham reminisces about the family reunions of her childhood at the edge of a local lake. Music, fishing, and the richness of memory keep the spirit of those traditions alive long after the family has changed.

Getting together outside is an elemental part of the human existence. Here are the recipes and tips you need to get it right — plus some of our favorite stories about summer reunions.

You can even attach a remote-control boat, so the the food and drinks come straight to your unicorn pool float.

This jumbo pop is sure to make everyone smile.

This faux seafood platter is actually dessert in disguise!

These fake out desserts will have all your cookout guests doing a double take!

Hosting a get-together this summer? Whether you're doing an informal outdoor barbecue or an evening cocktail party, we've got you covered on how to best calculate the amount of food and drinks you'll need to plan the right size soiree.

This may just be the sweetest pineapple you’ll ever eat.

Learn Chef Bobby Flay's favorite recipes for twists on summer dips like guacamole, hummus and salsa, plus more ideas from Food Network.

Stocking a bar doesn't have to break the bank. Start with the basics, and build from there. Assess your bar supplies each season and before each planned party. In the warmer months, think beer, white wine and light spirits.

Design your dream dessert: This easy recipe leads to dozens of possibilities.