Design Happens

There are many big issues facing the country on this summer Friday. Obviously, the most important of them all is what to order as your drink of choice when the work bell rings and you head to happy hour. We recommend creating a fruity smorgasbord of deliciousness with a pitcher of sangria. Whether you are a fan of the white wine or the red wine variety, either party can agree that sipping on a tall, cold glass of sangria will eventually lead to happiness, camaraderie and yes, even world peace (or at least peace on your patio of choice).

FoodNetwork.com's California Rose Punch

Happy Hour Style: The Beauty of Bar Carts

FoodNetwork.com's Tropical Sangria

Sangria also scores on the fruit front. Drinking a glass comes with a healthy shot of vitamin C from the wine soaked oranges, nectarines and berries. Head to the market and fill up your cart in the fruit aisle and then grab a bottle of your favorite vino. You are set for a sangria summer night.

HGTV is on Instagram. You can download the app on your phone and follow us at @hgtv.

It might not have shown up on your calendar today as a date to remember, but August 10 is officially National S’mores Day. What better way to celebrate such a holiday than by roasting up this delicious treat and sipping fun drinks on a glamorous camping trip – otherwise known as “glamping.” We’ve got tips for throwing the perfect backyard camping party and a chocolate cocktail to keep you cool on hot summer nights.

Happy Hour Cocktails: The Full Collection

Glamping Tip 1: Whether you are glamping in your backyard or in the woods, there are a few things to remember when setting up your campsite. Always make sure to pitch the tent on level ground. Clear sticks and stones away beforehand. Pick a tent (or canopy or fort made out of blankets) that fits your needs. Want to set up a table with enough chairs for friends? You’ll need a bit more coverage than if your glamping adventure is a snug little area for two.

Glamping Tip 2: Throw an outdoor dinner party during your glamping trip. Invite friends over for a barbecue, buffet dinner, or sit-down dinner – just remember to keep the theme casual and the clean up quick and easy.

Glamping Tip 3: Serve a signature cocktail.This twist on a hot chocolate drink is perfect to cool your guests off on a hot summer night.

Cocoa Freeze Cocktail Recipe

So, call up your friends, mix up some drinks and stoke the fire. You’ve got s’mores to make and glamping to do!

It’s hard to imagine a summer cookout with out one staple item: a tray filled with giant slices of watermelon. This refreshing treat screams summer. But, when you get down to it, it can also scream mess – it’s not the easiest food to eat. The solution for having your watermelon and drinking it too? A watermelon cocktail.

Happy Hour Cocktails: The Full Collection

Whether you prefer frozen or on the rocks, these watermelon libations are the perfect way to update your weekend cookout. Click on the pictures below to get check out these recipes.

Get the Recipe: Frozen Waterberry Batida

Get the Recipe: Mellow Melon Margarita

Find more ideas for easy recipes for a summer party.