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7 Ways to Make Your Outdoor Spaces Comfortable in Cold Weather

Get more use out of your patio or deck this year with one (or more!) of these ideas to make your outdoor spaces more comfortable in cold weather.

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Toast to our friendship outdoor gatheringAleksandarNakic/Getty Images

Make Your Outdoor Spaces Comfortable in Cold Weather

Outdoors is safer than indoors in this time of pandemic, forcing us to reconsider the best COVID-19 friendly gatherings with friends and family. But with winter upon us, who enjoys shivering in the cold? Here are some ideas to make hanging out in cold weather more comfortable.

If your loved ones live far away, here’s how to throw a virtual party to boost your mood.

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Relaxing Evening by the Fire SolStock/Getty Images

Add Heat

No doubt, one of the easiest ways to make your outdoor gathering more enjoyable this winter is adding a heat source. Best options include space heaters, a fire pit (portable or permanent), an outdoor fireplace or even an outdoor pizza oven. Gather around the fire (but not too close!) to enjoy time spent with your loved ones.

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Row of shrubsinga/Getty Images

Set up Windbreakers

A bone-chilling winter wind can challenge even the best heat sources. Plant tall shrubs or install a fence around your outdoor space to serve as a windbreak, preventing that whistling wind from disrupting your outdoor gathering. These plants are great for backyard privacy.

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Outdoor String Lightsfunkyteddy/Shutterstock

Install Outdoor Lighting

If your outdoor hangout can’t be held during the day, consider setting up outdoor lighting. Attach string lights to tall fence-posts or other structures and crisscross your yard to create a cozy canopy for your guests. Here are 15 of the best outdoor string light ideas for your backyard.

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cozy balcony in snowy winter cottagealvarez/Getty Images

Purchase Cozy Furniture and Accessories

Make your outdoor space a bit cozier with an abundance of warm blankets, fleece or wool pillow covers, clean hats and gloves, and of course toasty drinks to warm your guests’ hands.

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outdoor hot tub hot tub house home interior whistlerlaughingmango/Getty Images

Put in a Spa/Hot Tub

If you’ve been mulling purchasing a hot tub for a while now, this is the time to finally go for it! A soak in a hot tub can feel oh-so-good after a long day. But the benefits go well beyond simple relaxation. Here are the health benefits of a hot tub.

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Garage storageDon Mason/Getty Images

Convert Your Garage

Transform your garage into a COVID-friendly hangout space this winter. Open the garage door, set up some lawn chairs and crank up the garage heater. Easy!

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dress for cold weatherPaulo Amorim/ Getty Images

Dress for the Weather

This one is a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised to learn that some people favor fashion over comfort. While hanging out in the cold, protect yourself with the right coats, scarves, gloves and hats. If it’s time to update your winter outerwear, we’ve found just the items that you need to try.

Up next, learn these important tips for keeping your pets safe this winter.