Last Updated on November 3, 2023 by karenpadgett25
Hosting a back yard BBQ is a great way to spend time with family and friends. It can also be a lot of fun, but there are a few things you need to make sure you have in order to make your BBQ a success. Here are seven simple must haves for your next back yard BBQ.
Having a back yard BBQ is the perfect way to enjoy the summer weather while spending time with loved ones.
No matter the season, a backyard BBQ is always a good idea.
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1. Delicious Food –
Of course, you can’t have a BBQ without food! Whether you’re grilling up burgers and hot dogs, smoking some ribs or serving up simple appetizers make sure you have enough delicious food to feed your guests. No one likes being hangry!
2. Cold drinks –
In addition to the food, you’ll need plenty of cold drinks to keep everyone hydrated. Make sure to have a variety of beverages on hand, including water, soda, beer and wine. You don’t want anyone to get too thirsty!
Don’t forget ice to keep the drinks cold and fruity freezer pops for the little ones.
You may want to consider investing in one of these coolers with wheels to keep your refreshments ice cold.
3. Seating-
If you’re planning on eating outdoors, you’ll need somewhere for your guests to sit.
Picnic tables are a must have for eating outdoors. If you don’t have one, any outside table will do.
Also, set up some lawn chairs or lay out some picnic blankets in your back yard so everyone has a place to relax after eating.
Don’t be afraid to ask your guests to bring a lawn chair if you don’t have enough.
4. Lighting-
Having outdoor lighting for your next back yard BBQ is a must. You want to be able to see what you’re doing when cooking. There are a few different types of outdoor lighting that you can choose from, so find the one that best suits your needs.
String lights are a popular choice for back yard BBQs. They’re festive and can help set the mood for your party. You can find string lights in a variety of colors, so choose the ones that best match your back yard’s décor.
Another type of outdoor lighting that you may want to consider is lanterns. Lanterns can provide a more romantic or vintage feel to your back yard BBQ. You can find lanterns that are powered by battery, solar, or even oil.
No matter what type of outdoor lighting you choose for your back yard BBQ, make sure it’s something that you’re comfortable with.
5. Entertainment-
Having something to keep your guests entertained is a must. No one wants to sit around in silence, so make sure you have some games set up.
Badminton and cornhole are some a couple of favorites that everyone will join in.
Outdoor movies are a great way to keep everyone occupied especially the little ones.
Consider setting up a projector and screen with some kid-friendly shows.
And no BBQ is complete without some tunes! Put together a playlist of your favorite songs to create the perfect atmosphere for your back yard bash.
6. Citronella Candles or Bug Repellent-
When you’re hosting a back yard BBQ, there’s nothing worse than pesky mosquitoes. Fortunately, citronella candles can help keep the bugs at bay.
Just light a few of these candles around your yard and enjoy your party without having to worry about bugs.
Citronella filled tiki torches are perfect for your outdoor bbq because they provide both mosquito repellent and extra lighting.
7. Sunscreen-
Last but not least, don’t forget the sunscreen! It may be tempting to stay in the shade, but sometimes the party moves and you don’t want to get caught without any protection from those harmful UV rays.
Conclusion:
Planning a backyard BBQ for your friends and family is a great way to enjoy the summer weather. But, if you want it to be a success, you need to make sure you have everything you need.
With these 7 simple must-haves, you’re sure to throw a successful back yard BBQ that your friends and family will enjoy!
The most important thing you need is good weather. This one is obviously out of your control so we did not include it in our list.
Good weather is key to a successful BBQ. There’s nothing worse than being cold and wet while trying to cook (and eat) outdoors. So, fingers crossed for good weather on the day of your BBQ!
check out my blog post How to Have a Fun and Frugal Summer for more Summertime Fun Ideas.
How to Have a Fun and Frugal Summer
