It’s tough to be the bearer of bad news, but here goes… there are just a few more weeks of summer break. Now for the good news! We’re here to help you plan the most epic end of summer BBQ that your friends and family could ever ask for.
Obviously a BBQ requires a grill and food, but there’s a lot more that goes into making it a fun, outdoorsy party.
Be the coolest host around with these tips!Courtesy of Pineapple Supply Co. on Unsplash
The Games
Games help bring any party to the next level, no matter what age you are. Be sure to have some sporting goods like a basketball or soccer ball on hand. If you’re thinking bigger, set up a volleyball net and grab some badminton rackets and birdies for a fun match.
You can also play lawn games like croquet or bocce ball. Grab a bucket of chalk and draw your own lines for a game of four square, hopscotch, or sidewalk twister!
You can't go wrong with a game of badminton!
The Playlist
There are tons of ready-made playlists on Spotify and Apple music, but feel free to create your own! If you need inspiration for summer songs, check out our articles here and here!
You can also open up playlists so all your friends can add songs. What a fun way to make sure everybody hears their favorite tunes!
Make sure you have a killer playlist ready to go.
The Decorations
Balloons are always clutch in a party scenario, but there are tons of fun decorations that can be bought on the cheap. There are make your own phrase banners and balloons that can be found at party stores.
So long, summer!
The Food
This is the biggie at every BBQ. Aside from classics like burgers and hot dogs, you should make sure to include chicken and vegetarian options on the grill. You will also need to have lots of snacks and sides to supplement.
Who doesn't love food fresh off the grill?Courtesy of Unsplash
Do your grocery shopping the day before so you don’t get stressed in the hours leading up to the party. If you’re good in the kitchen, you can make homemade recipes, but if you’re short on time and cooking genes, you can pick up almost any kind of dip, chip, and dessert at the store.
An easy way to make sure there is enough food for everyone while taking the pressure off yourself is to host potluck style. This is where everyone brings a dish to share with all of the guests. Just be sure to tell everyone the general type of food they are bringing (chips, dessert, salad, condiments, etc.) so you don’t end up with a dozen potato salads!
Corn on the cob is a great side to serve.
The Entertainment
Even though the days are long, have some plans for once the sun starts to set. A movie projector and screen are easy to rent, or if you have a large wall or garage, you can just project the movie on there! This is a fun way to wind down any party after an afternoon filled with food and games.
Don't forget to screen a fun movie!
Tell Us Your Opinion
So get out there and enjoy the last few weeks of summer before school starts back up. Throwing a BBQ of your own? Let us know how you decorate and plan in the comments below!
