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This blog was updated in December 2024.
Howdy, friends! Lauren here from your favorite entertaining site. Today is going to be extra fun because we are talking about outdoor entertaining in the fall! Most would say that summer is picnic season, but I am a huge fan of taking that delicious spread outside in the autumn months as well. Cozy sweaters, a crisp fall breeze, lots of yummy food, and delicious wine to warm you right up – dreamy, right?
So, pour yourself a glass of wine, scroll down, and be inspired to host your own fall picnic!
Living in Chicago means that our fall lasts for a whopping two weeks. That means we have a hot second to soak up everything the season has to offer before it gets really cold. I don’t know why, but fall is my favorite season for entertaining. There is something so happy about having a bunch of friends over, sitting around a table passing yummy dishes, drinking wine, and talking for hours. Fall is when everyone can slow down from summer and take a minute to catch up with friends before the mayhem of holiday season sets in.
That is why the fall picnic is so perfect! You gather up those friends that have been swamped with busy summer schedules, string some lights up, throw a few blankets in a basket, and get to celebrating!
Preparing for a Cozy Fall Gathering
Entertaining outdoors in the summer is similar to entertaining in the fall, you just need a few more accessories. In lieu of the picnic blanket in the backyard, break out a picnic table or a card table with a fun table linen on top. Roll up some blankets and place them on each guests seat, or drape an extra jacket on the back of everyone’s chair. Don’t have enough? Try a mix of both! Early September nights are so beautiful, so don’t cut the party short because people are cold. Plan ahead and watch the dinner last all night long. Here is a list of the recommended items to ensure your party goes off without a hitch:
Essentials for Fall Outdoor Entertaining:
- Picnic or Card Table: A sturdy surface for dining.
- Festive Table Linens: Add color and warmth to your setup.
- Blankets: Keep guests cozy as the temperature drops.
- Extra Jackets: Provide warmth and comfort for your friends.
- Candles: Create a warm, inviting atmosphere.
- Floral Arrangements: Incorporate seasonal blooms for a touch of autumn.
- Portable Lighting: String lights or lanterns to brighten up the space.
- Serving Platters and Utensils: Ensure you have enough for all your dishes.
- Wine Glasses and Bottles: Don’t forget the Kendall-Jackson wines for the perfect pairings!
If the grill is still hot from summer, by all means, whip something up but if you live in a small space or don’t have a grill readily available, we’ve got other menu options!

Creating a Cozy Tabletop
As far as tabletop prep goes, I say, "the more thoughtful the better!" Throw a fun linen (or two!) over your table, grab some candles and spread them throughout the table, and nothing says ‘autumn´ like a good floral arrangement! Forage some greens in your neighborhood and whip up something on your own or swing by your favorite local florist and do something pre-arranged.
Remember, entertaining doesn’t have to be perfect, it just has to be thoughtful!
Fall Dinner Party Recipes
When planning a fall dinner party, embrace the season's bounty with recipes that highlight the rich flavors and ingredients autumn has to offer. Think hearty soups, roasted meats, and vibrant vegetable dishes that celebrate root vegetables, squashes, and warm spices.
Here are some of our favorites:
Perfect Wine Pairings for Your Fall Feast
As the flavors of fall come alive, so do the opportunities for pairing delicious wines with your seasonal dishes. The right wine can elevate your meal, creating a harmonious balance between food and drink that enhances every bite. Here are some fantastic pairings featuring Kendall-Jackson wines that will make your fall picnic truly unforgettable.
1. Hearty Soups and Chardonnays
As the temperatures drop, a warm bowl of soup becomes a staple. Whether it’s a creamy pumpkin soup or a rich butternut squash bisque, a luscious Chardonnay from Kendall-Jackson can pair beautifully.
2. Roasted Vegetables with Pinot Noir
Fall is the season for vibrant roasted vegetables. Think root veggies like carrots, beets, and sweet potatoes. A fruit-forward Pinot Noir with bright red berry flavors and subtle earthiness is an ideal match. This pairing brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetables.
3. Grilled Meats and Cabernet Sauvignon
If you’re firing up the grill, a robust Cabernet Sauvignon from Kendall-Jackson is the way to go. The wine’s bold tannins and dark fruit notes complement grilled meats like steak or lamb perfectly. The smoky flavors from the grill and the wine’s depth create a rich, satisfying experience that’s perfect for fall evenings spent outdoors.
4. Spicy Dishes and Sauvignon Blanc
For those who love a bit of heat in their fall feasts, a crisp Sauvignon Blanc can be the ideal partner. Its bright acidity and herbal notes cut through the spice, making it refreshing alongside dishes like spicy chili or jalapeño cornbread. Kendall-Jackson’s Vintner’s Reserve Sauvignon Blanc, with its vibrant citrus and tropical fruit flavors, will add a delightful contrast to your meal.
Make Your Fall Dinner Party a Hit with Kendall-Jackson Wines
Well, what are you waiting for? Call those friends you’ve been meaning to see, send that mass text, and throw yourself one heck of a dinner party (and don’t forget the Kendall-Jackson wines)!
Feel inspired to share? Tag @kjwines & @LaurenKelp_com – we would love to see!
For wine serving tips, visit the Entertaining section of our website.
Happy hosting!
