Party Planning Ideas & Recipes

Plan a terrific party for friends and family with our party-planning tips and delicious recipes.

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Get the Party Started!

Who doesn’t love a great party? From a small dinner party or potluck to an outdoor celebration or special occasion, we’ve got the planning tips, ideas, and recipes to make your soiree a smashing success.


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4 Champagne Cocktails and 4 Appetizer Recipes for Your Party

The hostess of thebubblygirl.com and author of The Bubbly Bar shares her favorite cocktails and party appetizers just in time for your holiday party.

The Ultimate Guide to Thanksgiving Table Setting

What kind of table cloth should you use for a holiday meal? Does the wine glass go on the left or right? And how about the dessert spoon? Read on to find out.

24 Party-Ready Pantry Items

Can, carton, bottle, jar: stock these star-chef staples.

Holiday Champagne Punch

This hits the perfect balance between sweet, tart and potent with its combination of cognac, apricot brandy and raspberry eau de vie – known as framboise.

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  • The Latest in Party Planning
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  • 1Lava Lamp Cocktail
    This sweet tart pomegranate cocktail looks as good as it tastes.
  • 2Mini Lamb Burgers With Feta and Mint
    The richness of these flavorful burgers is balanced by fresh mint and feta cheese, making them the perfect bite for a summer cookout or a mid-winter snack.
  • 3Posh Popcorn
    Hot buttered popcorn becomes sublime when paired with a fizzy glass of sparkling wine.
  • 4Cheddar Cheese Coins
    You’ll find these buttery cheddar biscuits irresistible with sparkling wine or any wine for that matter.
  • 5Spiced Hibiscus Granita
    Inspired by a punch from Trinidad this frozen granita is just the thing for a light end to a meal.
  • 6Grand Marnier Champagne Cocktail
    This potent cognac and orange libation makes a sharp statement, just like a pair of Manolo Blahniks.
  • 7Buck's Fizz
    Created at Buck's Club in London in 1921, this sweet and tangy drink is one of the most frequently sipped champagne cocktails in the world.
  • 8TV Chefs' Favorite Holiday Recipes
    We asked celebrity chefs and Food Network hosts to share their favorite holiday recipes with us. From apple pie to cornbread dressing, you'll find something for everyone as you plan your menu.
  • 9Game Hens in Apricot, Tequila, and California Chile Sauce
    Marcela Valladolid shares one of her most favorite recipes, just in time for the holiday season.

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