10 Block Party Essentials to See Summer Off in Style

A checklist of must-haves for your outdoor bash
Filed Under > Everyday Entertaining

This week we’ve had a blast sharing scenes from our end-of-summer block party with Pottery Barn, along with a few of our favorite fuss-free finger food recipes and a super refreshing mocktail/cocktail.  We already hit the basics you’ll want to have at your own outdoor bash, but we wanted to round up a final checklist today for you as well.  You’ve got the comfy chairs and pillows covered, but you don’t want to forget about the great playlist, string lights and games.  Click on the image above to scroll through the slideshow of our top 10 block party essentials. Cheers, Kat

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String Lights

String Lights

It's a given that string lights make every outdoor experience more magical, and a block party is no exception.

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Lounge Chairs + Pillows

Lounge Chairs + Pillows

You want everyone to feel like they can stay awhile, so stock up on the comfy lounge chairs and pillows.

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An Outdoor Patio Set

An Outdoor Patio Set

One great patio set is all you really need to set up a food station since the evening won't call for a full sit-down meal.

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Fuss-Free Finger Food

Fuss-Free Finger Food

The key to a great block party is an easy menu full of food you can grab-and-go. Healthy homemade dips are great options, as well as gourmet (but simple!) sandwiches.

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A Mocktail (Easily Turned Cocktail)

A Mocktail (Easily Turned Cocktail)

Whip up a refreshing batch drink that everyone at the party can enjoy (and can easily turn into a cocktail with a little vodka). We're huge fans of Arnold Palmers & John Daly's, and this new Citrus Cooler is one you'll want to try STAT too.

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A Cooler

A Cooler

Keep cool things cool with a galvanized tin party tub or traditional cooler.

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Easy Desserts

Easy Desserts

Find ways to serve sweet treats that are easy to enjoy and mess-free. Watermelon on popsicle sticks and freeze pops are great options!

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Good Tunes

Good Tunes

Crank the summer playlists for everyone to hear with these storage cubes with portable speakers or your favorite Bluetooth player.

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Outdoor Games

Outdoor Games

Great outdoor games like ladder toss and bocce ball can easily be set up in the neighboring yards at the block party for kids and adults alike.

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DIY Activities

DIY Activities

Consider simple ways to incorporate DIY crafts like a Paint & Plant station for the little ones.

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ADDITIONAL CREDITS:

Featured image, Rustic White for Waiting on Martha

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