How to Host the Perfect Fall Bonfire
If you ask me, a bonfire is synonymous with Fall. I just love how casual and cozy a fireside get-together can be. Not to mention the cool crisp air, sounds of the crackling fire, and the glimmering light of the moon.
Now that we have land of our own, I can see us hosting a ton of Fall bonfires this season, and for years to come. As a matter of fact, it was just this weekend that our family threw together our very first bonfire at our farmhouse. It was simple, involved s’mores, and a pretty delicious mulled apple cider.
And, that’s the beauty of bonfires. They can be as simple or as elaborate as you want them to be.
For our first bonfire, we sat in our beach chairs, and marveled at all of the stars we could see in the sky above. Let me tell you, I’ve never seen this many stars on Long Island. It’s pretty magical to see just how many are up there, without a telescope.
Yea, I can get used to living in the country. Tennessee does not disappoint.
Feature Image by Greg Gulik
The Elements of a Perfect Fall Bonfire
Food. There are so many options depending on the size of your guest list. But, here’s what I’m thinking: when guests arrive, offer a grazing table indoors with charcuterie, crudité, and seasonal munchies (fresh fruits, spreads, and desserts) on full display.
If you’re like us and haven’t hosted an event in your home yet, you’ll want to make sure your guests are comfortable during their visit – inside your home and out. So, get them their beverage of choice and give them a tour. Even if your house isn’t what you would consider “perfect” (like ours with one bedroom door).
Once everyone has worked their way through the grazing table, it’s time for dinner. And, what’s better than a chili bar? Seriously, no one is manning the grill/stove and the slow cooker does all the work. Everyone has the opportunity to relax and enjoy good company.
I love this chili recipe. As for toppings, you can’t go wrong with cheese, avocado, jalapenos, scallions, and tortilla chips. Just no sour cream okay? My love of sour cream ended once I realized that the horrible smell coming from my fridge was… expired sour cream. Seriously, our relationship ended right there, and that was years ago.
Seasonal Fall Drink and Mocktail. I think every gathering should have a signature drink. In my opinion, it sets the tone for the entire event. Yes, stock the cooler with your everyday, go-to beverages but, this is no everyday affair. Am I right?
When the temps get cooler, you have more freedom when it comes to your cocktails – bring out the whiskey, and bourbon! And, for a Fall bonfire, I definitely recommend mulled apple cider. You can leave it on low on the stovetop, just make sure to check in on it every once and a while (set a timer for every 30 minutes). If that doesn’t sit well with you, it’s time to employ another slow cooker!
The great thing about warm apple cider is that you can add your liquor of choice after pouring it in your cup. So, it’s a great mocktail and cocktail at the same time.
Bonfire Seating Ideas. Having a variety of seating options is always best when hosting a get together. For a bonfire, adirondack chairs are a classic choice. But, you could also get away with beach chairs, floor pillows, blankets, wood logs, etc. I mean, let’s be honest, who would have more than a handful of adirondack chairs anyway? Plus, it’s usually better not to make seating so matchy, matchy for a casual event.
Activities. Now, if you’re anything like me, the grazing table, and warm apple cider will keep you preoccupied. But, just in case you’re not, lawn games would be perfect for a bonfire. Cornhole, horseshoes, backyard bowling, bocce, or if the kids are being especially crazy you can set up a game of dodgeball, hehe.
Dessert. It’s always good to have a dessert option. But, even more so for a bonfire. Um, hello? S’mores! But, since it’s Fall, you might want to have some pies too, like apple, pumpkin, pecan, sweet potato….hungry (or channeling Forrest Gump, lol)?! Psssst…don’t forget the vanilla ice cream.
What’s your favorite time of year to have a bonfire?
