If you are lucky enough to have Carolina blue skies or a warmer climate in the fall, why not head outdoors for your Thanksgiving meal! Incorporating your outdoor living areas into your Thanksgiving day plans can help multiply the space that you have for entertaining. Whether you have a large back yard, an outdoor balcony or a long porch, you can host an unforgettable dinner. With a little planning and some creativity, you can create a warm rustic atmosphere on your patio that makes the holiday more special.
First things first!
You will need a set of outdoor furniture to socialize and dine with friends and family that suits your needs.
The dining table plays an important role in your home and also on the patio. Choosing a table that suits your style, fits your space, and is solidly constructed is a good idea. It also can be advantageous to pick one that offers flexibility in how many people it seats. The good news is, with extendable tables, you can have it all. Being able to make a table larger or smaller is really handy when you have extra people for the holiday. Come check out our variety of outdoor tables here at Viridien. We have tables that fit 2 people to 12 people. Stop in or visit our website if you are looking for one.
Dress your table
Just because you are outside, you shouldn't skimp on decor. A little decoration goes a long way and creating a stunning tablescape doesn't have to be complicated! To make the most of the autumnal season, dress your table with a rustic runner of linen or flannel and use fall mums, pumpkins and gourds to create a centerpiece, and since you are outside you can also use a few candles or lanterns on the table to create the perfect ambiance. Try stringing some twinkle lights around the area. They are an attractive and easy way to illuminate your space. You can hang them in trees, on a pergola or under an umbrella.
You might be tempted to cook your thanksgiving dinner inside, but why not utilize your outdoor kitchen space and appliances. You might try grilling your turkey this year, but even if you like the traditional roasted turkey, you can still add some creativity to your meal by cooking a few things on the grill.
Make some tasty side dishes like this recipe for grilled brussel sprouts, or grilled asparagus or root vegetables on the grill. If you are up for the challenge, you can even make a grilled apple pie in a cast iron skillet or try this recipe for grilled apple pie foil packs.
Create a comfy after dinner hang out and watch the Game
While the dining table might be the most important piece of furniture for the Thanksgiving feast, a nice comfy outdoor seating area near the TV is always great for gathering with family after cooking and eating to watch a football game... or two. It's the second most important part of the day, and the right cushioned seating will make your outdoor area the most popular place after dinner.
Outdoor Fireplaces and Heaters
Bring on the warmth! Your guests will likely rally around the fireplace or fire pit in the evening, which is the perfect compliment to your comfy seating area for some warmth and ambiance. Patio heaters are also a popular option at this time of year to provide warmth for the outdoor area.
Lay out cozy blankets for everyone to enjoy as well, because nothing is better than sitting by the fire wrapped in a blanket enjoying the perfect mug of homemade hot cocoa - here's a lovely hot cocoa recipe to delight your guests. Add in some pumpkin pie for the perfect ending to your cozy outdoor Thanksgiving festivities.
With Fall in full swing, you can consider trying something new this year. Hosting an outdoor Thanksgiving dinner is a beautiful way to celebrate the season. Whether you are throwing a large family gathering or inviting just a few friends over for the holiday, with a little planning, you can be at ease knowing that your outdoor living space is prepared for entertaining. Thanksgiving is a holiday that started outdoors after all.