Eating healthy and being physically active can be a fun part of parties and events. Great gatherings are easy to do when tasty, healthy foods from all the food groups are offered in a fun, active environment. Above all, focus on enjoying friends and family.

Make healthy habits part of your celebrationsFood and beverages are a part of an event, but they do not have to be the center of the occasion. Focus on activities to get people moving and enjoy being together.

Make foods look festiveAdd a few eye-catching fruits to a favorite dish or a new recipe. For older children, add a sprinkle of almonds or green onions to make the dish pop. Decorate foods with nuts or seeds or use new shapes for vegetables.

Offer thirst quenches that pleaseMake fun ice cubes from 100% juice or add slices of fruit to make water more exciting. Create a “float” by adding a scoop of low-fat sorbet to seltzer water.

Savor the flavorTake time to pay attention to the taste of each bite of food. Make small changes in your old recipes or try dishes from another culture to liven things up.

Use ChooseMyPlate.gov to include foods from the food groups for your partyOffer whole-grain crackers, serve a spicy bean dip and a veggie tray, make fruit kabobs, layer yogurt and fruit to create a sweet parfait. Use whole grains and veggies to make a savory, healthy salad.

Make moving part of every eventBeing physically active makes everyone feel good. Dancing, moving, playing active games, wiggling, and giggling add fun to any gathering.

Try out some healthier recipesFind ways to cut back on added sugars, salt, and saturated fat as you prepare your favorite recipes. Try out some of the recipes on ChooseMyPlate and the What's Cooking? website.

Keep it simpleHave others participate by contributing a healthy prepared dish, helping with the clean up, or keeping the kids active and moving.

Shop smart to eat smartSave money by offering foods that fit your budget. Buy in-season produce when it costs less and tastes better. Plan in advance and buy foods on sale.

Be a cheerleader for healthy habitsIt’s never too early for adults to set an example. Keep in mind that children follow what the adults around them do — even at parties.

For more health and nutrition information, please visit www.choosemyplate.gov.

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