Birthdays, anniversaries, promotions, even summer weekends — There is always a good reason to throw a party. If you are on a diet, however, any celebration can mean disaster. If you think there is no such thing as a diet-friendly party, you are in for a surprise. There are many things you can do to celebrate without packing on the pounds you have been working so hard to lose.

The first step in organizing a diet-friendly party is to put the focus on anything other than food. Creating a themed party or organizing a spa night or movie night are great alternatives to the standard food-focused bash. Keep in mind that many times people overeat at parties because there is little else to do, and having food in their hands is a great way to relax. Give everybody a choice by providing board games or giving people access to your CD collection. Or set out a few photo albums for guests who are always asking about your past holidays or your childhood. The secret to a diet-friendly party is to always give your guests something to focus on.

When it comes to the food itself, think buffet for a diet-friendly party. Provide appetizers rather than a full-course meal. Offer a variety of dips, from salsa to hummus, and give the guests the choice of eating chips or raw vegetables. Low-fat chili (make it vegetarian for even lower calories) and grilled vegetables are quick to make and easy on the waistline. Whatever you offer, make sure it isn't fried. There is a big difference between French fries and golden baked potatoes.

Drinks can be one of the biggest problems when you are planning a diet-friendly party. Beer in particular is high in calories and carbohydrates, so avoid it completely or provide your guests with lighter options. Have no-calorie drinks, such as icy lemon water and diet sodas, available in quantity, and make sure people have access to chilled carbonated water so they can water down wine and liquors if they choose.

In the end, remember that the key to a diet-friendly party is in enjoying the company rather than obsessing over your waistline.