Labor Day traditionally marks the end of summer and beginning of cooler weather. So long lounging by the pool, humidity, and lazy summer days. Fall is coming in full force, which is a great excuse to throw a party before having to layer up for the colder weather. Break out the propane and chill the dessert, we’re sharing our top recipes to make your Labor Day party a success!

Sweet Sipping

Here’s where you can really get crafty with your beverages. Summer is the perfect time for sweet drinks to keep you cool in the intense heat. This recipe also has wiggle room for you to add fresh fruit to taste, giving it a seasonal flavor for the summer.

Pink Lemonade Sparkling Fruit Punch (flavorite.net)

Little Bites

Looking for a delicious alternative to the standard party dip and chips? You’ll love this spin on regular salsa with fruit salsa and crisps.

Fruit Salsa with Cinnamon Crisps (spendwithpennies.com)

Summer Salad

A chilled salad is perfect for a summer picnic and is a tasty treat for your guests. Which allows you to offer a dose of vegetables while keeping it cool.

Summer Corn, Avocado, and Black Bean Salad (produceonparade.com)

Grill Master

One of the greatest parts of cooking in the summer: grilling. Use the nice weather to your advantage while you still can and fire up the grill.

BBQ Chicken Bacon Pineapple Kabobs (butterwithasideofbread.com)

Endless Dessert

Nothing screams summer like desserts! Let this recipe inspire you and your guests’ sweet tooth at your Labor Day party. Don’t forget to chill this yummy masterpiece.

Peanut Butter Cookie Lasagna (flavorite.net)

Now that you have your bases covered with food, what else do you need to make this year’s Labor Day extravaganza a success?

BONUS PARTY TIPS:

Theme it up

There are so many great themes to choose from for Labor Day. Play on the old fashion faux pas (not wearing white after Labor Day) and ask guests to be decked out in their bright whites. Or go patriotic and get a little more use out of those Fourth of July decorations you just put away.

Fresh air

Plan your Labor Day party with good weather in mind. The purpose of the party is to celebrate the end of summer, so being outside and enjoying the fresh air is crucial. Keep an eye on your local forecast to make sure guests have the freedom to roam the great outdoors. This will also save you from having to tidy up the house too terribly much.

Games

Plan games for ALL your guests. Your guests will be more relaxed with fun for the whole family. Set up a water balloon toss or life size Jenga blocks. Get the adults to let their inner child out while their kids have a blast.