Summer festivals are upon us and we have been making our way through the stages. This week we'll be hitting up The Governor's Ball. Can.not.wait!If you're not making it out to any of the festivals this year, fear not! We are going to give you a few festival inspired party ideas so you can invite your friends over for some good eats, cocktails and tune into some great music! The food: Festivals have come such a long way from funnel cakes and fries. One of my favorite dishes at the Governor's Ball last year was the fish tacos that I found at a nearby food trucks. We made our own version of these tacos by simply sauteeing white fish (we used cod) and topping with a Sriracha cabbage slaw, guacamole and sour cream. What else do you eat at Festivals? Hot dogs. I am one who will never get sick of a good ol' juicy dog. We topped ours with a mango salsa. Here's an easy recipe for ya. DEE-LISH!

To drink: At our festival party you know there's going to be sangria flowing freely. We suggest serving the sangria out of a beverage dispenser, punch bowl or large pitcher if you have one. This way guests can help themselves as they please and you won't get tied up in the kitchen having to make more! With all the wine you may consume, it's important to also stay hydrated. Especially in the heat! We found these water bottles with a built-in filtration system from Brita® and we infused our water with fresh fruit. Pick your citrus: lemon, lime, orange...so refreshing! For something sweet: Cool down with an all natural snow cone! Brings us back to our childhood while enjoying a new twist on an old classic. We used the recipe from The Garden of Eatin' found here. If you didn't catch it last week, we made flower shades to wear to the shows this year. We are also (while late to the party) really into these flash tattoos. Actually...a bit obsessed. What we're listening to at our Festival Party:

If you are going to the festivals, go prepared! It's a long day in the heat and it's much more enjoyable when you have all the essentials on hand. The quick list for you: * Sunscreen, face wipes, lip protection - we love the products from Burt’s Bees® for all of our sun protection. * Sunglasses, hat, headband * Water bottle * Blanket For those of you who do make it out...be safe and have fun! Photos above were taken by: Dave Robbins Photography See more excuses to get together on the Gather Now Tumblr Feed.