How to host a backyard BBQ party

It’s backyard BBQ season! Find out the essentials for throwing a BBQ party. Are you celebrating a graduation, birthday, or holiday? We have lots of choices in décor, tableware, and accessories that will coincide with any theme. From invitations down to the last detail, choose from thousands of fun pre-made designs or customize your own by adding photos or text.

Set a One-of-a-Kind Table

Why buy plain white paper products when you can wow your guests with plates and napkins featuring photos of the graduate or the birthday boy or girl. Simply upload your favorite images for a unique addition to any party.

If you love to dress up your table, check out table runners that add a splash of color and coordinate with your theme. Another way to jazz up your tablescape is with confetti. We have customizable confetti as well as thousands of festive pre-designed options. Extend your party theme even further with custom banners and yard signs.

Easy BBQ Menu Ideas

One of the secrets to a fun and relaxing BBQ is for you to do as much cooking as possible in advance. You don’t want to be stuck in the kitchen when guests arrive. Look for recipes that you can make the day before or the morning of your party. Many slaws and salads taste even better after the flavors have blended overnight. Pasta salads are another tasty choice for make-ahead dishes. There are lots of great mayo-free options that don’t require constant refrigeration.

When planning a BBQ party, a selection of no-cook dishes makes less work for you. These types of sides also dirty fewer dishes and offer easy clean-up. Set out trays of sliced cured meats and cheeses, as well as fresh fruits. If you want to try something out of the ordinary, make grilled skewers of fresh fruits. Firm varieties like mango, pineapple, and melon caramelize beautifully over moderate flames.

Ribs are a great choice for BBQ entrees. They can roast on a low temperature on the grill or in the smoker without requiring much attention from the cook. BBQ chicken is another option that doesn’t require you to look after it at all times. Choose low-maintenance foods that will allow you to spend time with your friends and family.

Beverage Essentials for Throwing a BBQ Party

Don’t worry about offering a full bar to your guests. Keep bottles or cans in a cooler with ice so people can serve themselves. It’s also fun to offer a signature cocktail at parties. Choose something cool and refreshing for outdoor parties, and make pitchers of drinks rather than individual servings. Don’t forget mocktails for your younger guests.

BBQ Party Fun and Games

When you’re having a party, always remember the entertainment. Turn on some upbeat music and play casual games that guests of all skill levels will enjoy. Cornhole is a classic BBQ game. You can even upload your own image onto the board! There are also personalized dartboards and ping-pong paddles to enliven your BBQ cookout.

BBQ party games including ping pong and cornhole!
Photo: Zazzle.com

Whether you’re new to hosting get-togethers or a party pro, the most important thing is to enjoy your time with your friends and family. Don’t forget to take a break from buzzing around and enjoy a drink with your guests.