For those looking to celebrate a graduation or host a special event, a raclette party is an increasingly popular choice. This traditional Swiss dish, featuring melted raclette cheese served on potatoes or fresh baguette, is perfectly suited to the New England climate.
In this guide, we'll explore the ins and outs of hosting a successful raclette party, from choosing the perfect date and location, to selecting the ideal drinks and accompaniments to pair with this delicious and indulgent cheese.
Spring is for Celebrations
The mild temperatures, gentle breezes, and sunny skies create an ideal atmosphere for gathering with friends and family. Late May and early June are particularly lovely, with comfortable highs in the mid-60s to low 70s (°F) and plenty of sunshine. These perfect Spring days are ideal for an interactive, outdoor food experience.
Host at Home
Transforming your backyard, deck, or patio into a charming raclette party venue only requires a few simple touches. Twinkling string lights, lanterns, or candles will add a warm, festive glow to your outdoor space. Consider decorating with seasonal flowers, such as tulips or daffodils, and fresh herbs to bring in the fresh scents of spring.
Before guests arrive, make sure to walk the grounds to spot anything unpleasant that visitors might step in… and that brush is cleared away.
For music, opt for light, upbeat tunes that evoke the carefree spirit of Spring. To create a cozy atmosphere, set up comfortable seating areas and a few throw blankets just in case you’re hosting on any cooler spring evenings.
What about the food?
Raclette melters and grills are easily available online, and could be great for a DIY style party. Brands such as Emmi and Mifroma sell pre-sliced individual servings. And don’t forget plates and utensils for enjoying these hot cheeses.
A delicious and more convenient option would be to hire a raclette professional, such as Ben’s Raclette! We’ll serve your guests Alpine cheese by the half-wheel from smaller farms in France and Switzerland. We’ll prepare the baguettes, toppings, cornichons, and other accompaniments such as roasted potatoes and charcuterie.
Of course, you might want to prepare additional snacks for your guests so that there is variety. Fruit platters are a nice touch, along with cured meats, nuts, and other snacks.
What about drinks?
When it comes to pairing drinks with raclette cheese, there are plenty of delicious options to choose from. For beer enthusiasts, a crisp Saison is an excellent match, with its citrus and grassy notes complementing the rich, nutty cheese. Wine lovers will appreciate a dry Pinot or Riesling.
For non-alcoholic options, consider serving an Earl Grey or premium green tea, both of which offer a refreshing contrast to the rich cheese. These drinks will help cut the oil in the cheese and leave your guests feeling satisfied.
Try to avoid extra cold drinks while consuming hot cheese as it may cause stomach discomfort for a few hours. Generally, a room temperature or warm beverage works best.
When to host
When planning your raclette party, consider the time of day and the impact of sunlight, temperatures, and bugs. Late afternoon to early evening (4-7pm) is an ideal time to host, as the sun is still shining but not too intense, and the temperatures are mild.
Avoid hosting during peak insect hours (usually at dusk) to minimize discomfort to your guests. The exact timing will change throughout the seasons, so be sure to check the timing of dusk in your location.
It’s better to avoid the sunniest parts of the day when melting or grilling cheese, as direct sunlight could melt the wheel prematurely!
In terms of guest availability, weekends are an obvious choice; but weeknights can also work well, especially if you're hosting a smaller, more intimate gathering. Keep in mind the workday and kids’ bedtime schedules.
Backup Plans
It's essential to have a contingency plan in place for inclement weather. Coastal New England's unpredictable weather can quickly turn a sunny day into a rainy or windy one, so it's crucial to be prepared. Consider investing in a sturdy tent or canopy to provide coverage for your guests and party setup.
If a party tent isn't feasible, identify an indoor space that can accommodate your guests, such as a covered deck, porch, or gazebo.
If the party date arrives and a Nor’easter is approaching, consider picking a rain date in advance. A little planning goes a long way! And with a little luck from mother nature, you’ll create a special raclette party that your guests will remember fondly for years to come.