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6 Ways to Turn Your Backyard into Entertainment Central

Don't spend your backyard blowout in a hosting haze. The golden idea here is to create engaging entertainment stations so when the outdoor festivities begin, you can take part in the uninterrupted fun.

Not sure where to start? Here's a solid batch of outdoor entertainment tips that put six items you can find at Costco.com to good use.

1. Arrange patio seating around a fire pit

The social anchor of any party, a patio set paired with a fire pit helps guests launch into conversation while they scope out the scene.

Pro-Tip: For a fresh spin on a camping staple, pre-fill some waffle cones with s'mores fixins', wrap them in foil and roast them over the fire pit (or grill) for the ultimate summer night dessert.

2. Set up outdoor table tennis

Outdoor table tennis does wonders to cross all age barriers and prompt a bit of backyard banter and competition. Set up a chalkboard scoring station and provide extra paddles for doubles.

Pro-Tip: For a fresh spin on a camping staple, pre-fill some waffle cones with s'mores fixins', wrap them in foil and roast them over the fire pit (or grill) for the ultimate summer night dessert.

3. Get creative with replacement cushions

Keep different sized cushions on hand for charming yet versatile outdoor furniture. Create additional seating by placing them on top of large upside-down pots, crates or tree stumps.

Pro-Tip: Cozy up the space with a plush carpet, overstuffed pillows and strings of lights hung along the ceiling.

4. Repurpose an outdoor shed

Transform a small shed into an outdoor entertainment area, a space for live music, or a kids-only kingdom that will allow adults to mix and mingle in the yard.

Pro-Tip: Cozy up the space with a plush carpet, overstuffed pillows and strings of lights hung along the ceiling.

5. Lay out assorted drink stations

Pepper the yard with cold drinks to keep your guests cool and hydrated. Avoid mystery beverages by adding a hanging jar with markers for folks to lay claim to their cups.

Pro-Tip: No bartender on duty? Pre-mix summer cocktails in mason jars with fresh fruit garnishes — just be sure to mark the contents on the caps.

6. Create a "no melt" zone

An essential cooling station for kids and adults, an awning will supply the "ahhh" when your guests need to seek refuge from the hard-hitting sun.

Pro-Tip: Fill balloons with cold water and keep them on ice. When temperatures rise, hang them from the awning as a refreshing "piñata" for the kids to break.