Tips for Hosting a Great Backyard Barbecue

You've probably attended a backyard barbecue at some point in your life. Most of the time, these events entail the cooking of meats and vegetables outdoors using a charcoal or propane grill or a wood barbecue smoker pit. If you're planning on hosting a backyard barbecue for your friends and family, here are some tips to make it a success:

Sending Out Invitations

It's a good idea to send out invitations a few weeks prior to the event. If you send out your invites too early, people are likely to forget altogether. However, by sending the invitations too late, you run the risk of some people having other plans. So about three weeks before your backyard barbecue, mail out basic invitations that tell guests the date, time and location. Or, for those people you're especially close to, call or send an email!

Decorating

Lots of decorations aren't necessary. However, a red and white checkered tablecloth is ideal for that down-home look. And citronella candles can not only add a nice fragrance and glow, they keep pesky insects like flies and mosquitoes at bay. Want a little festive flair? Try a few balloons tied to the legs of your picnic tables.

Menu Tips

Whether you prefer to grill, barbecue, or smoke the food, there are a few choices that should be on every backyard barbecue menu. Hamburgers, hot dogs, chicken, and ribs are examples of fantastic meat choices. Corn on the cob and grilled vegetables like eggplant and peppers are always good, too. Try some convenient shish kebobs to combine meat and veggie favorites together.

Easy Cleanup

Provide lots of trash receptacles and heavy duty garbage bags so that guests will never have to look for a place to toss their dirty plates. Always use disposable plates, cups and utensils for the easiest cleanup, and try cooking on aluminum foil so that there's no scrubbing afterwards.

More Tips for Success

Provide bug spray to your guests if you live in an area where mosquitos are a problem. If your backyard barbecue runs into the evening hours, light some tiki torches or string some festive outdoor lights. Good ideas for fun activities at a backyard barbecue besides eating and socializing include volleyball, badminton, and the backyard classic – horseshoes!

Copyright 2006 Jim Sterling - All Rights Reserved

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