Bonfires are a hassle-free event that can be held if planning for a classic summer get-togethers like barbecues and pool parties become to stressful.

Time by the fire with friends is casual, relaxing and relatively cheap compared to the traditional summer blowout. The warmth of the fire, the delicious s’mores and conversation with friends will surely be a fun addition to the summer. Here are a few tips on how to create your own relaxing get together.

Atmosphere

Bonfires take place outside, so no more worrying about a clean house or fully stocked fridge. As for decorations, the most casual of bonfires don’t require anything except the natural beauty of the backyard. However, jazzing it up with a string of colorful lanterns or candles wouldn’t hurt.

Inexpensive party lanterns can also be homemade using Christmas lights and plastic cups.

Worried about bugs crashing the party? Citronella candles are an affordable and aesthetically pleasing way to ward off pesky bugs.

Any summer party is incomplete without some rockin’ tunes to set the mood. Fun, upbeat music is a great way to get the party started and get people out of their lawn chairs.

Soothing acoustic songs are good for when the partying dies down and everyone wants to relax, kick their feet up and have a few s’mores. It’s always a good idea to throw some popular songs on the playlist so people feel comfortable because everyone loves a little “Despacito” at their bonfire.

Food

Build-your-own food bars are great for a bonfire because they allow people to grab as much or as little food as they would like.

A hotdog bar is great for people who love to roast their own dogs over the open flame, while a taco bar has a mixture of salty, spicy flavors with endless combinations.

Starters like tortilla chips and guacamole give guests something to munch on as they mingle.

No bonfire is complete without s’mores. It’s convenient they only take three ingredients: graham crackers, chocolate and marshmallows.

Sticking to the classics is a sure-fire crowd pleaser, but spicing up the recipe couldn’t hurt.

Instead of plain Hershey’s, try Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, Kit Kats or dark chocolate. Get real creative and skip the chocolate all together; peanut butter or a dollop of Nutella is equally delicious.

One of the best parts about s’mores is if someone doesn’t want an entire one, they can just stick a marshmallow on a stick and roast away.

Drinks

What main course is complete without a refreshing beverage to accompany it? Summery cocktails, flavored lemonades or homemade slushies will cool off party-goers and add some icy citrus flavor. However, nothing beats ice water or a cold soda.

Mixing drink after drink can get exhausting, and possibly a little sticky. Pre-mix cocktails in mason jars and stick them in a cooler. Use a dry-erase board or chalkboard as a menu so guests can choose their own cocktail without the mess.