Are you someone who enjoys the fresh air and openness of the outdoors? Then you must be already planning the next barbecue party with your friends and family. There is something about the aroma of charred meat and grilled veggies that instantly teleports you to a happy place.
But if you have ever tried organizing a BBQ party in your backyard, you will know that it is not a cakewalk. Between watching out for fire hazards and fulfilling all your guests’ demands — it can quickly become stressful and tiring. At the end of the day, you will end up feeling physically and emotionally drained.
The good news is that planning a fun and stress-free BBQ party does not have to feel like an insurmountable task. If you have a spacious backyard outside your home, half the battle is already won. It saves you the trouble of going around looking for the perfect place to host your get-together.
In this blog, we have outlined a few more tips to help you organize a memorable BBQ party in your backyard. Let us take a look:
1. Plan For The Weather
Pleasant weather is the key to enjoying a BBQ party. Of course, you cannot control or manipulate the weather according to your preferences. Instead, you can check the forecast for the upcoming days and schedule your party when the weather’s going to be conducive.
It is a good idea to use a hyperlocal weather intelligence platform, such as Tomorrow.io (https://www.tomorrow.io/weather/). It gives you access to the precise temperature, precipitation, and wind data in your neighborhood. Also, you get an hourly breakdown of all this data. It can go a long way to help you choose the right day and time for your BBQ party.
2. Take It Easy
It is important to remember that a BBQ party is not the best occasion to flaunt your world-class culinary or bartending skills. Instead, the key is to have a fun and relaxed time with your loved ones. That is why you should resist the temptation to plan an elaborate five-course menu with state-of-the-art cocktails and desserts.
Instead, you should stick to unanimous favorites, such as burgers, sausages, and chicken skewers. If you want something fancy, try including brisket or pork chops in the menu. Make sure you also keep a few vegetarian options, such as cottage cheese steak and veggie skewers.
Do nt go overboard with the sides. Limit the menu to staples, such as potato salad or baked beans. You can also ask your guests to carry their favorite side dishes for everyone to enjoy at the party. It is a great way to amp up the menu without wearing yourself out.
When it comes to beverages, it is a good idea to keep a few non-alcoholic and kid-friendly options handy as well. Also, make sure you get a couple of large beverage tubs to keep your drinks cool and refreshing throughout the party.
Of course, your party would feel incomplete without some lip-smacking desserts. But decadent desserts do not always have to be time-consuming and difficult to make. Instead, you can plan fun DIY desserts, such as s’mores, to wrap up a hearty meal.
3. Maximize Prep
The reason you are hosting a BBQ party is that you would like to spend a joyous time with your loved ones. The last thing you want is to spend all your time near the cooking station chopping vegetables and making burger patties.
The good news is that you can avoid this situation by prepping well in advance. Start by marinating your meats and veggies and arranging them in skewers (if needed). Also, keep your sides and condiments ready before your guests arrive.
If you are planning to serve cocktails, make sure you choose a simple drink, such as sangria, that can be made in advance. The idea is to finish all the major chores beforehand so that the only thing you have to do during the party is to grill and serve.
While you are prepping, do not forget to check whether your grill has enough gas or charcoal. The last thing you want is to abandon your guests in the middle of the party and head to the nearest gas station, because your grill is out of propane.
4. Do Not Ignore Safety
The main reason you are inviting your friends is that you want to let your guard down and have a good time. But considering that your BBQ grill could be prone to fire hazards, it is wiser to prepare for emergencies.
As a ground rule, you should keep a fire extinguisher near the grilling area. It is also a good idea to keep a few spray bottles handy to take care of minor flare-ups while grilling meat.
What is your favorite way to enjoy a BBQ party with your friends? Share your suggestions in the comments section below.
