Tennis and strawberries party

What it is

A garden party during the big summer tennis tournament. Watch the final on a screen in the garden, eat strawberries and cream, and play a swingball or mini tennis tournament.

Plan ahead

• One week before: check the final’s date and time and set up a screen outdoors (in shade).
• The day before: buy strawberries, cream and make scones.

Set the scene

Green and white bunting, a white tablecloth, tennis balls in glass jars, deckchairs and parasols.

Activities

• Swingball tournament: a knockout draw; first to 5 points.
• Mini tennis: a net across the lawn and foam balls.
• Prediction game: who will win, in how many sets?

Food and drink

• Strawberries and cream
• Finger sandwiches and scones
• Pimm’s or fruit cup, elderflower cordial, lemonade, tea

Tips

• Keep the strawberries chilled until serving.
• Sunscreen and water on the table.