A perceptible chill is in the air after sunset, and hints of red, orange and yellow grace the trees. This autumnal lull between a fun-filled summer and the hectic holidays is the perfect time to throw a fall harvest party celebrating all the season has to offer.
the scene
• Scatter mini pumpkins, gourds and grape clusters around the buffet table, and light the space with candles in rustic lanterns. Set out bouquets of dried herbs, mums in orange, red and gold, and bushel baskets of apples.
• Light a big bonfire. Surround it with haystacks and blankets for cozy seating.
• Hollow out large pumpkins, then use a drill to create patterns and place candles inside. Use these to light your front porch or the walkway to the party area. Use another large pumpkin as a menu board: Cover its front with chalkboard paint and write the menu items.
be merry
• Keep kids entertained with apple bobbing and pumpkin-carving contests. Reward the winner with a sweets-filled goodie bag.
• Fill galvanized tubs with cold beverages. Serve a variety of big-bodied red wines and crisp whites and a selection of seasonal beers. Many local breweries produce delicious Oktoberfest or pumpkin beers. Set out a big batch of homemade cider.
• If the weather is chilly, set up a hot chocolate and coffee bar.
eats
• Cook up a big pot of chili and set out a variety of toppings, including macaroni, shredded cheese, onions, tortilla chips, bacon, sliced jalapenos and sour cream. Serve with a big salad of spinach, apples, walnuts and blue cheese.
• For appetizers or side dishes, serve puff pastry-wrapped Brie with chutney and crackers, roasted pumpkin seeds, roasted grape and goat cheese crostini, caramelized onion and rosemary flatbread, and a cheese and sausage plate.
sweets
• Fall’s signature sweets are some of the best of the year. Serve a combination of caramel apples, caramel corn, apple pie and cinnamon-sugar doughnuts. Set out marshmallows and roasting sticks near a bonfire
