Beating The Winter Doldrums - With A Party!

Who needs an official occasion to gather a few friends and celebrate?  And, what better time to do a little socializing than when the weather is less than fun outside?  Here are a few party-style suggestions to get your creative juices flowing (and give your friends an excuse to come over!):

1. Luau in February!  Who needs warm weather and bikinis to host a Hawaiian-style barbeque?  Break out the cookout recipes, and either cook indoors or fire up the grill for the occasion.  Make tropical fruity drinks with umbrellas and gift everyone with their own lei or beaded necklace!  If the weather is mild enough for a backyard gathering, light some tiki torches as well as lighting up the fire pit.  If indoors, have everyone dress in their own tropical island getaway outfit!
2. Have an un-birthday!  Who says it has to be the big 3-0 (or 4-0 or any other one for that matter)?  Celebrate whether it is your birthday or not - somewhere, it is someone’s birthday!  Bake a big cake, decorate with your favorite birthday flair and send out party invitations.  An idea as a substitute for gift-giving:  have guests bring a donation for the local food bank or children’s shelter.  Giving to others is a great idea for an un-birthday!
3. Wanna get away?  You don’t have to leave home to experience another region!  Plan a menu based on a favorite destination, such as a popular city or country, and invite your friends over for an evening on vacation - even if only at the dining room table.