The Ultimate Outdoor Entertaining Guide for the Holidays
The holidays are a time for gathering, celebrating, and creating memories. But let’s be honest—indoor entertaining often comes with crowded kitchens, too many coats on the bed, and not enough space for everyone to relax.
Here in the Pacific Northwest, where crisp evenings and cozy vibes reign supreme, there’s another option: take your holiday entertaining outdoors.
With the right mix of fire pits, outdoor heaters, and kitchens, your backyard can transform into a warm, festive extension of your home. Picture friends sipping mulled wine by the fire, kids roasting marshmallows, and family members gathered under twinkling lights. Outdoor entertaining doesn’t just solve the space problem—it makes the holidays feel magical.
Here’s your ultimate guide to hosting holiday gatherings outside.
Why Host the Holidays Outdoors?
While holiday entertaining traditionally happens inside, moving part (or all) of the celebration outdoors offers unique advantages:
Extra Space: Perfect for larger families or groups of friends.
Atmosphere: Nothing beats the glow of firelight paired with crisp PNW air.
Memorable: Guests will talk about your fireside holiday party long after it’s over.
Healthier Gathering: With fresh air circulation, outdoor celebrations are often more comfortable for everyone.
The Pacific Northwest is made for outdoor entertaining—even in December. With the right setup, you’ll find your patio or backyard becomes the heart of the holidays.
Fire Pits: The Heart of the Celebration
No outdoor holiday gathering feels complete without a fire pit. Beyond warmth, fire pits provide:
A Natural Focal Point: Guests instinctively gather around flames.
Ambiance: Dancing firelight creates a cozy, festive mood.
Interactive Fun: From hot drinks to marshmallow roasting, the fire pit invites participation.
Fireside Drink Stations
Turn your fire pit into a beverage hub. Add a side table or bar cart and serve hot, holiday-inspired drinks:
Mulled Wine: Simmer with cloves, cinnamon, and orange slices.
Spiked Eggnog: Traditional, creamy, and perfect in festive mugs.
Hot Cocoa Bar: Stock toppings like marshmallows, whipped cream, candy canes, and sprinkles.
Hot Toddy Station: Bourbon, honey, and lemon served piping hot.
Guests will love sipping their drinks fireside as the evening unfolds.
Outdoor Heaters: Comfort for Everyone
While a fire pit sets the mood, outdoor heaters provide even coverage across your space. That means no guest is left shivering in the corner.
Types of Outdoor Heaters
Wall or Ceiling Mounted: Perfect for patios and pergolas, they free up floor space.
Freestanding: Portable and flexible—move them wherever the crowd gathers.
Built-In Systems: Sleek and permanent, these heaters blend seamlessly into high-end outdoor designs.
When paired with a fire pit, heaters ensure that your entire outdoor space stays warm and inviting, even in chilly PNW December weather.
Outdoor Kitchens: The Secret to Stress-Free Hosting
Nothing adds ease and elegance to outdoor entertaining like a fully equipped outdoor kitchen. It keeps the cook connected to the gathering and reduces the back-and-forth between indoors and outdoors.
Holiday Outdoor Kitchen Ideas
Pizza Ovens: Create festive flatbreads or even holiday-inspired pizzas (think cranberry, brie, and rosemary).
Built-In Refrigeration: Keep sparkling wine, mixers, and desserts chilled outside.
Counter Space: Use for plating, serving, or a dessert display.
Bar Sink: Perfect for rinsing glasses or prepping garnishes for cocktails.
With an outdoor kitchen, you can serve, cook, and mingle in one seamless space—making hosting easier and more fun.
Festive Décor for Outdoor Gatherings
Holiday cheer isn’t limited to the indoors. With the right décor, your backyard can look just as festive as your living room.
Lighting
Fairy Lights: String along fences, pergolas, or around trees for instant sparkle.
Lanterns: Cluster on tables or hang from hooks for cozy glow.
Candlelight: Use flameless candles for safe, flickering ambiance.
Seasonal Touches
Wreaths: Hang on outdoor doors, walls, or even near the fire pit.
Garlands: Drape evergreens along railings, mantels, or outdoor bars.
Pumpkins & Pinecones: Transition fall décor into winter with natural accents.
Comfort Additions
Blanket Baskets: Provide throws so guests can stay extra cozy.
Rugs & Cushions: Define lounge zones and soften the space.
Tabletop Décor: Use metallics, cranberries, or ornaments to add sparkle.
Hosting Small Outdoor Holiday Gatherings
Not every celebration needs to be a large party. Sometimes the most memorable holidays are the intimate ones.
A fire pit makes a small gathering feel special:
Invite a few close friends for dessert and drinks after dinner.
Host a hot cocoa and s’mores night for kids.
Enjoy an adults-only fireside whiskey tasting with festive snacks.
Because fire pits naturally create intimacy, even a small group feels like an occasion.
Tips for Stress-Free Outdoor Hosting
Hosting outdoors doesn’t have to be complicated. Keep these strategies in mind:
Plan Ahead: Prep food and drinks early so you can enjoy the evening.
Think Layers: Layer heating, lighting, and seating to maximize comfort.
Keep Safety in Mind: Place fire pits on stone or gravel, and keep water or an extinguisher nearby.
Stay Flexible: Have umbrellas, pergolas, or pop-up tents ready in case of rain.
The key is to create an environment where guests feel relaxed and cared for.
Why COR-TEN Steel Fire Features Shine During the Holidays
Our RB73 fire pits and fireplaces are made from COR-TEN steel, a material that’s as practical as it is beautiful.
Weather-Resistant: Designed for wet/dry cycles, perfect for the PNW climate.
Durable: Lasts 10x longer than ordinary steel.
Low Maintenance: No paint or sealants needed.
Aesthetic: The rust-colored patina pairs perfectly with holiday greenery, lights, and décor.
That means your fire pit won’t just perform on one holiday—it will anchor your celebrations for years to come.
FAQs: Holiday Outdoor Entertaining
Is it too cold for outdoor entertaining in December?
Not with fire pits and heaters. The layered approach makes patios cozy, even in winter.
What’s the best holiday recipe to cook on a fire pit?
Cast iron cornbread, mulled cider, and baked apples are all easy, festive, and crowd-pleasing.
Can I decorate my fire pit for the holidays?
Yes—just keep flammable décor (garlands, fabric) at a safe distance. Use lights, lanterns, and non-flammable accents nearby.
Do outdoor kitchens really help during the holidays?
Absolutely. Having cooking, refrigeration, and prep space outdoors reduces stress and keeps the cook part of the fun.
Final Thoughts
The holidays are about togetherness, warmth, and joy. With the right mix of fire pits, heaters, and outdoor kitchens, your backyard can become the most festive and functional part of your home this season.
At Puget Sound Fire Pits, we specialize in fire features that are built for the Pacific Northwest—handcrafted from COR-TEN steel, delivered, installed, and supported by our team. Pair them with outdoor heaters and kitchens, and you’ll have everything you need to host cozy, unforgettable holiday gatherings.
🔥 Ready to transform your backyard into a holiday entertaining hub? Explore our collection of fire pits, heaters, and outdoor kitchens today.
