Allergy-
Friendly Tips
for Outdoor
Entertaining

 

Allergy-
Friendly Tips
for Outdoor
Entertaining

 

 

 

Whether you’re firing up the grill for your annual Fourth of July BBQ or planning a beachfront wedding, these tips can help you minimize
seasonal allergy triggers for you and your guests.

Whether you’re firing up the grill for your annual Fourth of July BBQ or planning a beachfront wedding, these tips can help you minimize seasonal allergy triggers for you and your guests.

6 Party-Planning Tips for Seasonal Allergies

1. Time it Right
Pollen count can vary depending on the weather and season, so try to plan your outdoor activities when pollen count is lower. And be sure to check the local pollen forecast the day of the event, so you can be prepared when allergy symptoms strike.

2. Mow Down Grass Allergies
Grasses flower and release pollen into the air in the late spring and early summer. If grass makes you sneezy, try cutting the grass short so it does not flower and release pollen into the air. Also, be sure to mow the lawn one or two days before the event.

Yellow grass outline with white dots in blue background represents pollen from grass.

3. Find the Right Spot
If you’re looking for a location to host an event in the summer, ask the venue what type of grass they have so you can avoid the worst allergy culprits. Wherever you end up, ask the venue to mow the lawn one to two days before the event to avoid being around freshly cut grass.1

4. Make a Mold Move
Be sure to rake up moldy leaves before partygoers arrive. And, if you see signs of mold in your mulch, consider replacing it with gravel.2

5. Pick Flowers Less Likely to Aggravate Allergies
Whether you’re planting flowers in your yard or choosing party centerpieces, pick flowers that produce little to no pollen. Daffodils, impatiens, lilies, pansies, petunias, roses, snapdragons, tulips and zinnias are all less likely to aggravate allergies.3

Beware of summer standbys like sunflowers, daisies and chrysanthemums that are in the ragweed family and can trigger pollen allergies.3

6. Dress to Protect
Wear a brimmed hat and oversized sunglasses to help protect your eyes and hair from wind-blown pollen and mold spores. You can keep some fun shades on hand for allergy-prone guests who may have forgotten theirs. You could even make them a party favor!

References

References

  1. Environmental Management for Allergies. Cleveland Clinic. Accessed November 1, 2024.

  2. The New Allergy Solution: Supercharge Resistance, Slash Medication, Stop Suffering. Dr. Clifford Bassett. Accessed November 1, 2024.

  3. Allergy-free Gardening: The Revolutionary Guide to Healthy Landscaping. Ogren, Thomas Leo. Berkeley, CA: Ten Speed Press, 2000. 267 pp. Accessed November 1, 2024.