Hosting Al Fresco: BBQ-Ready Spaces + Signature Summer Drinks

Jul 11, 2024
1 min read

Updated: Jul 11, 2025

summer barbecue, outdoor patio, outdoor seating, outdoor decor, summer

A casual outdoor meal has to be one of the true joys of summertime. Food prep and clean up is minimal and there seems to be more opportunity to linger. With longer days and a slower rhythm it's one of the best times to take advantage of that.

We sourced some great items to make it easy for taking it out doors- and yes- even an ice cream maker. Because what's an outdoor summer meal without homemade ice cream?! My husband received one for his birthday probably 15 years ago and we use it without fail every 4th of July but also several times throughout summer. We've made everything from creamy ice creams to gelato (yes it's different!) to ices. Decadent & yummy!

But I have to say one of my favorite things I have been getting into over the past couple of years are mocktails. (fun to drink but without next day regret 😉 ) We thought we could share a few from my arsenal that have been hits with all ages. Scroll down for three refreshing summer drinks you’ll want to keep on repeat all season long.I have been making my watermelon slush agua fresca probably six years now; I always have frozen cubed chunks in the freezer during summer so we can make them on the fly. Jump to the bottom for the recipes of three mocktails I've been loving.