With winter’s short days and single-digit temps, you’re less likely to hang out outside and run into your neighbors. Gather the gang and catch up with these fun ideas for grown-up get togethers.

1.. Fondue Party
You provide the cheese and invite neighbors to bring things to dip. Dessert should, of course, be served with a chocolate fountain.

2.. Eat on the Run
Coordinate a progressive dinner party with neighbors and enjoy each dish, and perhaps a new variety of wine, in a different home.

3.. Put on Your Detective’s Cap
Host a murder mystery party. Download storylines and clues from the web or order a kit with costumes. It’s always a fun way to kill an evening.

4.. Hit the Beach
A luau-themed party may be the closest you'll get to a beach vacation this winter. Grass skirts, plastic leis, tropical drinks, hula tunes and a few rounds of limbo will help warm things up. Indoor tiki torches not recommended.

Love to entertain, but squeezed for space? I can give you an idea of new home opportunities could broaden your party horizons.