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Everyone loves a backyard cookout, whether it’s on Memorial Day, July 4th, or a regular weekend get-together. Food just tastes better outdoors, and the bonding with friends and families is unmistakable. But everything goes better with a plan, so use this simple guide to have the best backyard cookout ever.
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Make it a Potluck
Choosing a menu, doing all the shopping, and getting the grill and everything else ready can be overwhelming. Take some of the load off by making your backyard cookout a potluck. Having the sides, dessert, and appetizers taken care of will allow you to concentrate on the grill. You’ll save time and stress less. Another option is to have guests bring whatever they want to toss on the grill. That’s a great option if anyone has dietary restrictions.
Give Your Party a Theme
A backyard cookout is a party, right? Give your’s a party theme! Have dinner and a movie and set up an outdoor screen with a projector, or throw a Hawaiian-style luau. If it’s a patriotic holiday, add plenty of red, white, and blue to your decorations. Create table centerpieces and choose tablecloths, plates, and napkins to match your theme.
Get the Grill and Gear Ready
Give your grill a good scrubbing beforehand. Test it to see that it’s functioning properly, especially if it’s been a while since you last used it. Get your fuel ahead of time and have extra propane, charcoal, or wood pellets on hand just in case. Check out your grilling gear, including tongs, skewers, metal spatulas, and hot pads. Set aside the serving platters and bowls you intend to use.
Plan for Comfortable Seating
Ensure you have enough seating for the number of guests you’re expecting. Add a few card tables to your picnic table if you’re expecting a crowd. Moveable chairs will allow guests to gather in groups for lively conversations.
If your backyard doesn’t have shade trees, patio umbrellas, canopies, or a pergola can offer a shady place to escape the hot sun. Keep guests comfortable and safe from biting bugs with citronella torches and candles. You could also offer your guests bug spray or insect repellent. Potted plants like chrysanthemums and marigolds help repel insects.
Set Up a Cigar Bar
Delight your guests who like to light up with a smoke and an after-dinner cocktail by setting up a “cigar bar. ” Choose a well-ventilated area away from the crowd with seating and accessories like ashtrays, lighters, and cutters. Order your cigars online ahead of time and choose from exotic flavors like dark berry and tropical fusion.
Create a Mood with Music and Lighting
Everything goes better with music, including a backyard cookout. Create a playlist that includes songs from a variety of music genres that will appeal to everyone. Include contemporary pop, classic rock, country songs, and golden oldies. Or, if your party has a theme, choose music that matches it.
Keep the party mood going after dark with festive outdoor lighting. In-ground or post lighting adds illumination and helps guests navigate around the backyard safely. Overhead string lights add a fun, whimsical touch.
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