Pocket worthyStories to fuel your mind

How to Make the Most of Patio Season

Make the most of your warm-weather shindigs, no matter the size of your living space or wallet.

Corrie Evanoff

Read when you’ve got time to spare.

Outside revelry has commenced, and whether you’re hosting a cookout or headed to one, the festivities might come with a bit more work than you’re looking for on a hot day. To help keep your focus on the fun this season, we’ve rounded up smart ways to throw a successful backyard (or patio!) party, from leveling up your grill game to brushing up on your pre-pandemic social skills.

Image by Maskot/Getty Images

7 Ways to Throw a Summer Party Without an Actual Backyard

Fret not, my patio-deprived friends.

30 Non-Alcoholic Drinks Everyone Can Enjoy This Summer

You’re better than plain ol’ soda.

BONUS READ: Six Canned Drinks For Summer Parties That Refresh Without Guilt via Bloomberg.

18 Budget-Friendly Summer Party Ideas

You can save money and have fun with one of these affordable and creative summer party ideas. Start sending out the invitations.

The Foods That Keep You Hydrated

Water doesn’t have to come in eight 8-ounce glasses daily. Fresh fruits and vegetables, and various beverages, are viable sources of hydration.

12 Summer Dessert Recipes

Make the most of fresh summer flavors with a dozen warm-weather treats to add to your repertoire.

BONUS READ: 5 Rhubarb Recipes to Try Before It Goes Out of Season via Pocket Collections.

How to Grill Everything This Summer

Foolproof recipes and time-tested advice for cooking over an open flame, from brisket to watermelon burgers.

What to Bring to Your Next Cookout as a BBQ Guest

Impress the host with these easy sides and desserts.

Be On the Lookout at Your Cookout

It’s officially cookout weather and we can’t wait to get outside and fire up those grills. But in order to have the best cookout possible, it’s important to be aware of potential hazards for our furry friends. Check out these five tips to keep your pets safe.

BONUS READ: Five Ways to Help Your Pets Cope With Fireworks via The Conversation.

We Tried 13 Popular Potato Chip Brands, and Our Top and Bottom Picks Might Just Surprise You

See where your favorite brand ranks, and try not to get too salty about it.

How to Clean Your BBQ Grill

A well-kept grill is safer, looks great, and simply just works better.

BONUS READ: Please Clean Your Gas Grill via Lifehacker.

Roséwave: 110 Songs for Your Summer Getaway

Hit play and vibe all day.

Backyard Lighting Ideas – 10 Ways to Light up Your Outdoor Space

These stylish backyard lighting ideas will be key to enhancing your space from morning to night.

The 11 Very Best Outdoor Games

Spend this summer playing croquet, cornhole, or the Finnish version of pétanque.

6 Plants That Naturally Repel Mosquitoes

You might even already have a couple in your garden.

BONUS READ: How to Not Get Eaten Alive by Bugs This Summer via Vice.

Tips for Summer Living

Advice from an expert about choosing outdoor fabrics, growing bamboo, settling on ceiling fans and finding stylish bird feeders.