There’s nothing more American than a backyard barbecue. From the food to the friends to the games and good times, almost everyone has a fond memory that involves a grill, some hot dogs and plenty of laughs. Whether you’re a backyard barbecue veteran or a first-time host, Aloha FunWear is here to help with plenty of tips, tricks and expert advice to make sure your next backyard barbecue is a success.
Guest List
The first thing you need for your backyard barbecue is some guests. During the busy summer months, it’s a good idea to give plenty of notice, so make sure to put the word out at least a couple of weeks in advance for a larger party and several days in advance for a more intimate gathering. Barbecues are comfortably casual, so there’s no need to order invitations. A simple phone call or text will do.
When it comes to backyard barbecues, the more the merrier, so go ahead and invite the neighbors you don’t know very well. Barbecues are a great way to get to know people in a casual environment where there are no expectations except for a good time.
Food
Once you have some guests, you’ll need some food and a barbecue to cook it on. Start with the basics like hamburgers, hot dogs or even ribs and fill out your meal with a variety of sides. Potato salad, macaroni salad and coleslaw are all great choices, but don’t be afraid to branch out with new recipes too.
You can also make it a potluck, asking guests to each bring their favorite side to share. This is a great idea if you’re having a neighborhood barbecue or if you’re not sure how many people to expect. Don’t forget about drinks. Tea and lemonade are both budget-friendly beverage options that go great with grilled food. Pro tip: Make sure to have a vegetarian option available if you’re inviting guests you don’t know well. If any of your guests are vegetarian, they’ll appreciate being thought of.
Games
Break up the afternoon (or evening) with some games. Lawn darts, corn hole, bocce and horseshoes are traditional barbecue games, but minute-to-win-it style games and relay races can be just as fun and great for getting to know one another. The number of games or types of entertainment you’ll have will depend on your space. Just make sure you have something to keep your guests entertained. Add a little background music and you’ll guarantee that your guests will have a good time.
All it takes to have a successful backyard barbecue is a handful of guests, some good food and a couple of games. Barbecues are supposed to be easy, so don’t stress too much about getting your yard perfect or over-thinking your event. If you find yourself getting too serious, put on a colorful Hawaiian print shirt and grab a cold drink before you make the rounds. A successful barbecue is one where everyone leaves with fond memories and a smile on their face.
For more party ideas, vacation fashion tips and guides, visit Aloha FunWear. We’ve been around since 1999 and are the trusted source for vacation attire and information. Visit us at AlohaFunWear.com today.