On Our Wishlists: Essentials for Outdoor Entertaining This Fall
Top picks for an alfresco autumn.
Fall outdoor entertaining is easy – it just might need some extras to prep your patio for the seasonal shift. Our team shares what they have on their wishlists (and maybe even on the way).
1. Triumph 2x4 All-Wood LED Cornhole Set
“There’s nothing better than enjoying a hard cider and game of cornhole on crisp fall day! I love playing lawn games with my friends, and this is one that absolutely everyone can enjoy. This set comes with the boards and eight cornhole bags. The coolest thing about it is that it has an LED-lighted ring around the holes so you keep playing into the evening. The fold-up handles on the board make them super easy to transport, so I can use them at my place or bring them wherever the next fall get-together is.”
— Ava, Editor
“As much as I love the smell of a campfire, I’m less of a fan of when the smoke seems to follow you around – even when you move chairs. This smokeless fire pit is an easy solution for that. The double-walled design reduces the amount of smoke (more on the mechanics here: How Do Smokeless Fire Pits Work?), and the newly added removable ash pan makes it even easier to clean than previous models. The compact design is also great for smaller outdoor spaces, and as a design editor, it looks pretty nice on your patio even when you’re not using it.”
— Kennedi, Editor
“Whether you’re serving hot cider, sharing appetizers, or manning the grill, a dedicated serving station is a game-changer for entertaining. This bar cart is at the top of my wishlist because it offers both prep space and smart storage. It includes a spacious cabinet for stashing supplies, a metal countertop for serving or food prep, and thoughtful features like a spice rack, paper towel holder, and hooks for grilling tools. The wood-look finish brings a warm rustic feel, and the all-weather construction means I can leave the bar cart outside year-round. It’s the kind of piece that ties any outdoor space together and makes fall hosting feel hassle-free.”
— Fallon, Editor
“I love hosting intimate get-togethers on my patio to make the most of the fall season. Whether I’m enjoying a morning coffee with a friend or hosting a small barbecue, comfortable seating is essential for outdoor entertaining. I can’t wait to add these rocking Adirondack chairs to my outdoor space so I can sit back, relax, and enjoy the fresh autumn air with my loved ones.
With the unpredictability of New England weather in the fall, the fact that these chairs are UV- and weather-resistant is a draw for me. I know I can leave them outside and not worry about their durability. These chairs come in multiple colors, but I love how the teak brown finish will keep my patio feeling earthy and organic.”
— Ellie, Editor
“As soon as the temperature drops, I’m all about layering, and that goes for my patio too. This cable knit throw is the kind of blanket I can’t wait to have draped over every outdoor chair when guests come over. The wool blend makes it soft and warm, while the diamond cable pattern gives it a sweater-like texture and elevated look. I love how it brings a lodge-inspired feel to any patio or outdoor space. From casual cider nights to cozy fall bonfires, it’s the perfect finishing touch.”
— Fallon, Editor
“As autumn approaches and the sun sets earlier and earlier, it’s time to set the ambience for outdoor entertaining. I prefer to light my outdoor space with fairy lights, tiki torches, and path lights instead of the overhead spotlight. These outdoor globe string lights will be the perfect addition to my patio – providing a warm, inviting glow to illuminate my seasonal parties. I definitely appreciate that these lights are weather-resistant so I can leave them up all season long without worry.”
— Ellie, Editor
Tip!
Looking for more inspo? Check out our guide 12 Outdoor Fall Decor Ideas for Every Home for must-try tips.
