20+ Fabulous Outdoor Entertaining Accessories for Summer 2026
Consider this your cue to turn your backyard into the most sought-after “reservation” of the summer! Image: Terrain
Outdoor entertaining season has officially arrived, and your backyard is the place to be! Bid goodbye to basic barbecues and plain pool parties, and say hello to chic coolers, stylish serving pieces, and luxe lighting that keeps the vibes going after the sun goes down. This collection of functional, design-savvy pieces will help you set the tone for the season.
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Serveware & Tabletop
Patterned Reusable Small Plates
When it comes to these cheerful outdoor-friendly plates from Meri Meri x British printmaker Molly Mahon, obsessed is an understatement. Made from reusable melamine, they’re easy to clean, virtually indestructible, and guaranteed to brighten up any outdoor table. Shop a set of six for $48 at Meri Meri.
Bamboo Chip and Dip Server
This French blue chip-and-dip bowl pairs a bamboo-inspired rim with durable, shatter-resistant melamine for a polished, patio-friendly serving piece. It also makes a great hostess or wedding gift! Get it for $52.80 at Over The Moon.
Wood and Enamel Bowl
A good wooden bowl is the kind of entertaining staple that lasts for years, works with everything, and practically begs to be filled with summer salads. Shop for $99 at Mark & Graham.
Resin Servers
These resin salad servers make tossing and serving feel a little more fun, and are durable enough for everything from casual lunches to outdoor dinner parties. Pick up a pair of two for $24.99 at World Market.
Acrylic Tray
Acrylic trays are the ultimate entertaining catchall, and this colorful collaboration from Laura Park Designs x Tart By Taylor brightens up everything from drinks and snacks to card games. Even better, it transitions just as easily indoors for a little extra punch on the coffee table. Shop it for $140 at Tart By Taylor.
Paper Rattan Runner
This classic caning-pattern runner adds an easy layer of timeless texture to the table, whether it’s a summer soirée or a festive fall event. Even better, it comes on a roll, so if something spills, you can simply tear off a fresh sheet and keep the party going. Find for $32.95 at Hester & Cook.
Pinstripe Cotton Napkins
We love these cotton napkins from the company behind some of our favorite indoor-outdoor rugs. The neutral pinstripe with a hint of green feels classic and fresh, and the generously sized design works just as well for elegant tablescapes as it does doubled up as a tea towel. Get a set of four on sale for $22 (normally $44) at Annie Selke.
Drinkware & Bartop
Acrylic Striped Tumblers
These cheerful tumblers bring all the charm of real glass without the worry, thanks to their crystal-clear acrylic construction. Add a matching pitcher or a double old-fashioned glass to create a collection. Snag a set of six for $63.20 (normally $79) at Frontgate.
Acrylic Goblets
These acrylic goblets strike the perfect balance between traditional and modern, thanks to their charming hobnail trim. And somehow, they make every drink feel a little more cheers-worthy. Shop a set of four for $33.60 (normally $48) at Anthropologie.
Retro Insulated Tumblers
This retro-inspired roadie collab between Tuckernuck and Tervis is the cutest, with double-wall insulation that keeps everything from iced cocktails to morning coffee at the perfect temperature — without the condensation mess. Shop a set of four for $78 at Tuckernuck.
Cocktail Shaker
Take the bar outside with this cocktail shaker, complete with a leak-resistant design, an easy-press lid, and a built-in one-ounce twist cap. The double-wall insulated vessel keeps drinks properly chilled. And yes, it’s dishwasher safe. The summer-ready Cherry Blossom colorway is on sale for $48 (normally $60) at Yeti.
Elevated Beverage Dispenser
This drink dispenser makes pouring much easier, thanks to a removable stand that gives glasses plenty of room underneath — whether it’s perched on a counter or a tabletop. Why didn’t we think of that? Get it for $84 at Lulu & Georgia.
Coolers
Rolling Ice Chest
Not only does this rolling standing cooler hold plenty of drinks (up to 100 cans or 55 bottles), it also doubles as extra tabletop space for outdoor gatherings. And the nostalgic mint green color? Cute enough to leave out all summer long. Get it for $127.66 at Amazon.
Fieldbar Drinks Box
Fieldbar has become the cooler brand of the moment thanks to its sophisticated, design-forward look that doesn’t sacrifice function. Its “Champagne cold” insulation keeps drinks chilled for up to 50 hours. Shop for $255 at Epergne Nashville.
Insulated Cooler
This is one of the coolest (no pun intended) party coolers we’ve come across! Its premium insulation and divided compartments make everything from mimosa bars to taco spreads look pretty and easy to access — no digging through ice required. It can also double as a charcuterie chill station, flameless warmer, or even a floating swim-up cooler for pool days. Get it on sale for $169.89 (normally $274.88) at REVO Coolers.
Chiller Side Table
Cool in every sense of the word, this hard-sided ice chest pairs a sleek, scratch-resistant stone-plastic exterior with serious function. The latching lid, water-resistant design, and easy-carry strap make it perfect for keeping drinks and snacks chilled from backyard hangs to pool days. Find it for $119.99 at Walmart.
Lighting
Bluetooth Speaker Lantern
Part lantern, part Bluetooth speaker, this portable design brings both the glow and the playlist outdoors. With a warm, dimmable light, crystal-clear sound from JBL, and elevated details like a curved wooden handle and brass accents, it’s the kind of piece that makes the patio feel like an extension of your house. Shop for $250 at Uncommon Goods.
Portable Lamps
These rechargeable table lamps add instant ambiance without the hassle of cords. Plus, they have a waterproof design and adjustable dimming. Get a pack of two for $45.50 at Amazon.
Solar Lantern
Add a soft, romantic glow to outdoor evenings with this solar-powered wicker lantern, which provides up to seven hours of warm light after a day of charging in the sun. Shop for $54 at Terrain.
Insect Repellents
Patio Egg Diffuser
Meet your newest weapon in every Southerner’s war against mosquitoes. Simply fill the Patio Egg vessel with the plant-based, DEET-free formula to keep your porches, patios, and outdoor dinners free from unwanted biting guests. With up to 300 feet of coverage, just hang it in the included twine basket or tuck it somewhere discreet, and it will do the rest. Shop for $26.95 at Amazon.
Citronella Torch
These citronella torches prove pest control can actually look chic. Staked into the lawn or tucked into an oversized garden pot, they add a warm glow while helping keep mosquitoes at bay. Plus, the scents, including Verbena, Lavender, and Palo Santo, smell just as good as they look. Get them for $25 each at Free People.
Fly Fan
Fly fans have become a staple at restaurants with outdoor spaces, and now you can have the same pest-free service at home. These earn extra points for their slim profile and soft gold finish, which blends into the tablescape rather than detracting from it. The blades are strong enough to keep flies away, but soft enough for curious little hands. Shop a pack of four for $42.99 at Amazon.
Woven Food Tent
These food tents keep bugs away and feel more elevated than the average mesh cover. Durable enough to handle your parties, they fold down easily for storage once the guests have gone home. Available in small ($24) and large ($30) at Uncommon Goods.
Happy entertaining!
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Anne Marie Hanna
An Ole Miss alum residing in Nashville, Anne Marie is passionate about telling the stories shaping the South. Outside of work, you’ll likely find her on a porch with a coffee and a good book, gardening, listening to music, or enjoying time with friends and family.