Entertaining in many countries is commonly done outdoors, when possible. Homeowners frequently construct or set up a specific outdoor area for entertaining purposes. In warmer climates, these outdoor entertainment areas can be used almost all year long. These entertainment areas can vary greatly. Some items that are commonly used for these areas may include outdoor rugs, a pergola over head, and outdoor furniture.These areas designed for entertaining can be very elaborate and can include a gazebo, made of wood, metal or a metal frame and canvas. A pergola may also be used overhead. A pergola is usually a wooden frame constructed for vine type plants to grow up the supports or sides and cover the area overhead. This provides shade and some protection from very light rain. Many homeowners choose to use a perennial type of vine because these do not have to be replanted every year. The homeowner simply weaves the vines through the pergola to assure desired coverage of the above area as well as the supports or sides. When vines become overgrown, the vines are simply trimmed back to allow maximum health, growth, as well as provide shade.An area designed for entertaining outdoors can include the installation of an outdoor kitchen or built in grill area. Some may have an outdoor bar or a gas or wood burning fireplace constructed for the outdoor entertainment area. Some homeowners may prefer to have a fire pit or a portable outdoor fireplace, or a chimnea. A chimnea is a ceramic or metal outdoor stove or chimney. Wood or coal can be burned in outdoor fireplaces or chimneas. These are used to heat a small area outside. Some people may prefer to purchase outdoor heaters which use propane or natural gas to heat the entertainment area. Using these items may increase the length of time the area can be used during the year. The use of heating items may make evening or night entertaining possible, while keeping guests comfortable. These sources of heat should never be used or set on an rug, mat, towel or near other flammable items. Embers may spark and cause a fire hazard. Another matter you should give consideration to in respect of outdoor entertaining is to make sure you make the most of outside lighting which can really enhance the ambience of an area.