Wednesday, June 19, 2002

Celebrate an old-fashioned delight

A cool way to make your next get together more memorable is to give it an early 20th century seaside boardwalk theme and serve authentic frozen custard, the rich and creamy concoction that took Coney Island by storm in 1919.

Creating a boardwalk-themed party is easier and less expensive than you may think.

Start with the music. Find a tape or CD with traditional calliope or carnival sounds that will remind everyone of carousel rides and wooden roller coasters.

Decorate with colored balloons in large bunches. Make sure every child gets to take one or two home at the end of the party. If you decide to rent a tent to provide shade and shelter, try to get one with the red and white stripes to accentuate the carnival style atmosphere.

Create your own Midway with backyard versions of boardwalk-style games, such as throwing ping-pong balls into glass jars or knocking down stacks of cans with a ball. Participants can win small toys. Ask a friend or family member to play the part of a fortuneteller. With a great costume and just a little information about your guests, you can create your very own "swami."

You can even rent traditional-style popcorn makers on red carts and cotton candy machines.

Offer your guests Coney Dogs by adding chili and cheese to hot dogs. You can also serve French fries with vinegar, another boardwalk treat.

Be sure guests get their just desserts: salt water taffy, candy apples and Pierre's Authentic Frozen Custard. Amazing Waffle Cone Scrambler, Carousel Chocolate, Boardwalk Butter Pecan, Midway Cherry Arcade or Classic Vanilla Thriller can complete the party theme.

These are just a few of the authentic-recipe frozen custard flavors available in pints from Pierre's French Ice Cream Company. You can order 36 pints of frozen custard packed in dry ice to be delivered to your door by ordering online at www.pierres.com.

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