The Ultimate Guide to Hosting the Perfect Summer BBQ
Summer is in full swing, and a major staple of summer are barbecues. Summer is the perfect time to host a BBQ! While a spur of the moment BBQ can be just as fun as a well thought out BBQ, there are still a few things every host needs to think about!
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WHEN:
- Choosing a date for a BBQ may have a lot of variables, you may want to check with specific people you want there to ensure they can attend. Or you may want to pick the best date for you. Generally a weekend or holiday is when you’ll find most people are available. When thinking about hosting a BBQ, plan for late afternoon or early evening. This way you can avoid the hottest part of the day.
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WHO:
- Inviting people to your BBQ can be as simple or intense as you’d like to make it. But make sure you do the inviting, otherwise you could be hosting a BBQ for yourself. Texting or online invitations are usually the quickest way to send an invite!
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MENU:
- When planning a BBQ menu, make sure you have a variety of options for your guests. This is especially important if you have someone attending with dietary restrictions. You’ll want to double check with those guests to ensure you have options they can eat. You will want to make sure your menu contains a selection of main dishes, side dishes, desserts, and drinks. Invite your guests in on the fun and assign food assignments for the BBQ. Don’t be afraid to ask your guests for help! Someone could bring a great dish you’ve never tried before!
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PREP:
- Before the day of your BBQ, make sure your grill is ready to go! Clean your grill, make sure you have enough charcoal or propane, and check all your grilling tools are in good condition.
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SET UP:
- Make sure the area you plan on having your BBQ has plenty of seating, whether it's chairs, tables, or blankets. You’ll need to designate an area for all the food and drinks, as well. Will you be setting out yard games, make sure you have an area set up if you do. It can also help the atmosphere if you use a speaker and have some music playing in the background. You’ll also want to make sure you have shaded areas, whether it’s natural shade or you use umbrellas or canopies. Think about having sunscreen out and available for guests that may have forgotten to put sunscreen on before arriving. Use citronella candles, tiki torches, or bug spray to keep pesky bugs away from the fun.
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CLEAN UP:
- Set up clearly labeled bins for trash and recycling. If you have a large area you may want to set up more than one bin. Once your guests have left, do a visual sweep of the area to make sure there isn’t anything left out that could attract pests.
Following these simple tips, whether you’re a seasoned grill master or new to the game, can have you well on your way to hosting an unforgettable BBQ.