The summer season is a great time for outdoor gatherings and barbecues. The warm weather makes it ideal for gathering family and friends and enjoying good food and company.
Whether you’re hosting a classic backyard barbecue, a sun-soaked party with pool floats, or a picnic at the park, certain must-haves will make your summer BBQ experience the ultimate one.
Grill
The most important item for any BBQ is a good quality grill. Whether you prefer a gas or charcoal grill, make sure it’s big enough to cook all your food and has a temperature control system. Look for a grill that’s easy to clean, has a large cooking surface, and is sturdy enough to withstand outdoor elements.
BBQ Tools
Having the right tools for the job is essential when it comes to grilling. Some essential BBQ tools include tongs, spatulas, a meat thermometer, and a basting brush. Make sure your tools are made of durable materials and are easy to clean.
Coolers and Ice Chests
Whether you’re hosting a small BBQ or a big party, having a few coolers or ice chests on hand will keep your drinks and food at the perfect temperature. Cold beers, sodas, and water will keep your guests happy and hydrated, and you can also store some colder side dishes like coleslaw in a cooler until it’s time to eat.
Look for coolers that are large enough to hold all your drinks and food but small and compact enough to be easy to transport.
Outdoor Lighting
If you plan to host a BBQ in the evening, outdoor lighting is a must-have. Not only does it create a beautiful ambiance, but it also makes it easier for your guests to see and move around. Look for outdoor string lights, lanterns, and torches to light up your space.
Music
Good music can set the tone for a great BBQ. Create a playlist of your favorite songs and set up outdoor speakers to create a fun, lively atmosphere. You can also ask your guests for their favorite tunes to add to the playlist, too.
We recommend you put the playlist on shuffle so you don’t know what’s coming next! Other people may try to hijack the AUX cord or connect to your Bluetooth speaker, so you may need to be protective of your tunes if you want to be in control.
Outdoor Furniture
Comfortable outdoor furniture is essential for any BBQ. Make sure you have plenty of seating for your guests, whether it’s chairs, benches, or a picnic table. You can also add throw pillows and blankets for extra comfort.
You don’t need to spend a fortune on outdoor furniture, and even plastic chairs are better than nothing. If you’re really in a pinch or need to save cash, consider renting foldable chairs for the day.
Sun Protection
Protect yourself and your guests from the sun’s harmful rays with sun protection. This includes sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and umbrellas. Make sure you have plenty of sunscreen on hand, and encourage your guests to apply it throughout the day.
Remind everyone to bring sunscreen, but it can’t hurt to have some extra bottles lying around for communal use.
Bug Repellent
No one wants to be bothered by pesky bugs during a BBQ. Make sure you have bug-repellent candles, sprays, and torches to keep the bugs away. Bugs can be a bummer at the barbeque, so keep these tools on hand, especially if you’re in a more humid climate.
Games and Activities
Keep your guests entertained with fun games and activities, including outdoor games like cornhole, frisbee, and volleyball or indoor games like board games and cards. You can also set up a photo booth or scavenger hunt for your guests to enjoy.
Pool floats can also add a fun and playful element to a BBQ if you have a pool or are hosting the BBQ near a body of water. Pool floats can provide a comfortable spot for guests to lounge and relax while enjoying the sunshine and water.
Food and Drinks
Last but not least, the most important must-have for any BBQ is good food and drinks.
Plan your menu ahead of time and make sure you have enough food and drinks for all your guests. You can also ask your guests to bring a dish to share to make the meal more fun and interactive.
An Unforgettable Barbeque Bash
The ultimate summer BBQ experience requires some planning and preparation. Having the right tools, furniture, lighting, and sun protection will make your BBQ comfortable and enjoyable for your guests. Games and activities, good music, and delicious food and drinks will keep your guests entertained and satisfied.
