Giada De Laurentiis shares her how-to tips for casual get-togethers and home parties in this series, which begins with a game night for friends. For this event, a healthy menu and skinny cocktails are prepared. Recipes include warm chicken Parmesan salad; vegetable bundles with tarragon dressing; drunken berries; lemon-thyme Prosecco.

An indulgent, stress-free menu for a nighttime party features oysters; caviar and bubbles; braised short rib crostini with remoulade, "pop" tarts; and New Year's Martinez cocktails.

Giada invites guests to join her in the kitchen, where they make favorite dishes. Recipes include Caesar salad taco bites; pulled pork tacos; cheater churros; and strawberry-basil aqua fresca.

Giada hosts a family celebration that's both fun and cost-effective. She plans simple outdoor games and a menu that appeals to both kids and grownups. Included: make-your-own Juicy Lucy slider bar; crispy potato nests with cherry ketchup; black-and-white cupcakes; and easy egg creams.

The ultimate football-viewing party is planned. Giada presents tips for seating, snacks, drinks and friendly wagers. The menu includes blue-cheese-and-bacon truffles; walnut kicker cookies; margarita chicken wings; and cherry-ginger spritzers.

It's all about chocolate when Giada De Laurentiis hosts a party for friends featuring her favorite decadent ingredient. Recipes include spicy coq au vin chocolate; eat-your-heart-out pizza; dark chocolate macaron cake; and hazelnut-coffee martinis.