That truly dazzled me as a child, and probably still would today.

The gatherings I remember being most fascinated by were the progressive dinners.

Whats A Progressive Dinner?

1970s Dinner Party

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A progressive dinner is a dinner party that takes place in several different homes.

The group leisurely moves from place to place until the meal is over.

Progressive dinners can be elaborate affairs that include multiplehors doeuvresand main dishes.

Emily Painter’s Backyard Party

Credit: Carmel Brantley; Styling: Page Mullins

Or they can be as simple as a three-course meal.

Nowadays, there is less pressure to make everything from scratch and have a perfect home.

The main goal is to gather in person and have a good time.

Cheesy Mushroom Tartlets

Credit: Antonis Achilleos; Prop Styling: Kay E. Clarke; Food Styling: Emily Nabors Hall

Here are a few ways to plan a laid-back progressive dinner party.

Take It Outside

If the weathers nice, have a progressive dinner in several backyards orporches.

Fire up the grill, break out your cutest paper products, and make somebig-batch cocktails.

Our Summer Fish Fry Menu

Credit: Ian Bagwell; Prop Styling: Annette Joseph; Food Styling: Cynthia Groseclose

The food doesnt need to be fancy, and your house doesnt need to be clean either!

Pick A Theme

If your group enjoys a challenge,choose a themeto make things fun.