Get Outside - Hosting the perfect party in your own backyard

The lazy, hazy days of summer are upon us once again. And, in our opinion, the best cure for a lingering case of winter cabin fever is a frosty drink sipped on the patio with friends!

Step 3: Offer fun, thirst-quenching cocktails

Stay cool - Be creative with your coolers. If you're using the standard cooler, make sure the outside is labeled, and keep beer and non-alcoholic drinks separate. Fun options for chilling include galvanized tubs, foil-lined wheelbarrows, even birdbaths filled with ice and bottled drinks.

Mix it up - Frozen drinks are one of the best parts of summer. Have a few blenders on hand and offer some creative concoctions to your guests. Here are just a few suggestions, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic.

Let guests serve themselves - Set up a bar table outside and provide all the fixings - lemon and lime wedges, salt and sugar-rimmed glasses, an ice bucket, liquor and mixes. With the help of an extension cord, your blenders can also be outside. These are the only drinks you'll want to whip up yourself.

ICE baby, ice - You just can't have enough for a summer party.

• Step 1: Create the right atmosphere
• Step 2: Serve simple, delicious food
• Step 4: Have some fun!

Tip

When it comes to summer dining, food safety should be at the top of everyone's priority list. Check out these guidelines to make sure your picnic or barbecue is a safe one.