A basic guide to hosting a harvest dinner

by Ryan Mandigo 08/16/2022

To celebrate the turning of the seasons, many enjoy hosting a fall harvest dinner party with loved ones. A harvest dinner combines all the best late-summer fruits and vegetables with cozy, hearty dishes to make you feel at home. 

If you’re interested in hosting your own fall dinner party with a harvest theme, here are some basic tips to help you get inspired:

Harvest dinner dishes

A harvest dinner party is the perfect time to enjoy flavorful seasonal recipes with beautiful seasonal produce. Butternut squash, brussels sprouts and sweet potatoes are all examples of the plentiful and delicious foods you can bring to the table. 

Harvest dinner desserts

For dessert options, think of cozy, hearty treats that celebrate the finest selections from the local farmer’s market. Apple pie and pumpkin pie are beloved standbys, and plain brown sugar cookies provide excellent opportunities for creative decoration. Include some sweet and spicy hot apple cider for after-dinner warmth around the fire pit.

Harvest dinner decor

When decorating for a harvest dinner, focus on the hues and symbols of the season. Take inspiration from rich autumn leaves and ripe produce. Create a bountiful centerpiece featuring apples, pumpkins and other colorful gourds. For an outdoor party, light up the table with rustic mason jar lanterns.

Fun harvest dinner theme ideas

If you want to take your harvest dinner party a step further, you can incorporate a fun seasonal theme or activity. Here are some examples to consider:

  • Pumpkin carving
  • Apple-picking & apple-based desserts
  • Arts & crafts with fallen leaves

Are you ready to start planning your harvest party? Remember these tips when creating your menu and decor for celebrating the season.

About the Author
Author

Ryan Mandigo

Ryan Mandigo is an award-winning professional broker associate with Omni Real Estate. Originally a native of New Hampshire, his love of real estate began 30+ years ago while swinging a hammer on a framing crew. He has always had a strong passion for helping people, whether it be assisting a couple in purchasing their first home, finding a home that fits a growing family's needs, or downsizing for those with an empty nest. He strives to build strong personal and professional relationships with being a true believer in the power of positive thinking and always willing to lend a helping hand.

He is also a co-founder and board member of the Swing Fore the Kids organization. A local charity that is 100% nonprofit and their sole purpose is to help needy children and young adults within Horry County communities. He finds great satisfaction and pleasure in seeing how working hard for a great cause and raising funds can help others in need. He is also on the Board of Directors for the Waccamaw Youth Center in Conway, where their mission is to provide at-risk youth "A Place To Call Home"

When he is not working, he enjoys music, working around the home, spending time with family and friends, turning wrenches on vintage vehicles, getting some wind therapy on the Harley or chilling with their dogs.

Some quotes he lives by - "Do what you like and like what you do" - "You have to be odd to be number one" - "Dreams don't work unless you do" And one of his favorites. "Positive and enthusiastic thinking in all you do"