Essentials for a Backyard BBQ

To ensure your summer BBQ is a resounding success, consider these essential tools that will take your backyard party to the next level. This selection of BBQ party must-haves will streamline your planning process, leaving you with ample time to socialize with your guests and fully savor the day. Go ahead and mark your calendar for the next backyard BBQ while sending out invitations. With this checklist, you can effortlessly organize your event like a pro, without stress or hassle.

Lighting and Decor: Festive lighting is essential for creating the perfect summer atmosphere. As the sun sets, it helps transition your gathering into a cozy evening. These lights provide a lovely backdrop for your event.
Outdoor Torches: Outdoor torches serve dual purposes: they offer additional lighting and help keep pesky mosquitoes at bay. Consider torches with citronella candles for added protection. Whether with or without citronella, they add a playful touch to your outdoor space.
Summer Beers: Stock up on light beers or summer ales to please beer enthusiasts at your party. Keep it simple by offering one or two beer options, and ensure you have plenty of ice on hand to keep the beverages cold. Consider serving a summer shandy as a refreshing cocktail option.
Wine: Simplify your drink menu by serving rosé, a delightful middle-ground choice between white and red wines. Rosé elevates the ambiance of your BBQ event without complicating the drink selection. You can even use it to create a sweet summer sangria.
Drink Dispenser: Make serving drinks a breeze with easy-to-use drink dispensers. Guests can help themselves, and you’ll only need to refill them once or twice during the party. Consider having one dispenser with fruit-infused water and another with sangria.
Ice: Don’t forget the ice! Stock up on ice to keep your drinks cold throughout the event. It’s an inexpensive essential that can save you from last-minute ice runs or requests from guests.
Entertainment: Provide outdoor games like bocce ball, Kan Jam, cornhole, Jenga, or card games to keep guests engaged and entertained. Games also serve as icebreakers for guests who may not know each other well.
Bug Repellent: Be considerate of your guests by having bug repellent readily available. Some guests may forget to bring their own, so having it on hand helps keep mosquitoes, flies, and other unwanted insects at bay.
Watermelon: Watermelon is a crowd-pleaser, whether served in slices or as part of a refreshing salad. You can even try alcohol-infused watermelon slices or cocktails for added fun.
Simple Appetizers: Offer classic BBQ starters like guacamole and chips or easy-to-prepare options like crostinis and bruschetta. Bread-based appetizers are cost-effective and satisfying, making them ideal for keeping guests full and happy.