Inviting friends and family for some quality time and delicious food is a favorite pastime of many people. While there are many variations on this kind of event, hosting a BBQ is one of the most common choices — especially when the weather is nice.
While having a BBQ may seem like a simple event, there can be more that goes into it than meets the eye. Considering things like the steps to grilling safely, menu options, and items to keep your guests entertained can take some serious effort.
Luckily, by following some simple steps, you can have the best backyard BBQ and wow your friends and family.
#1 – Plan Your Menu Without Going Overboard
While adding as many choices as possible to your BBQ menu may be tempting, too much food can become overwhelming. You naturally want your guests to feel happy with their food choices, but not overcomplicating your selection can make the day run much smoother.
When you take on too many dishes, you can quickly become overwhelmed. Preparing multiple sides and main courses can be highly stressful and time-consuming. Not to mention, it’s challenging to get so many meals completed at the same time.
You may risk either ruining a dish because you are focusing on too many other things or food getting cold from sitting around while other things are prepared.
Rather than plan an extensive menu, try to stick to some of your most popular food options. Typically, two to three different meat selections and three or four sides are more than enough variety for most people.
If you really want a wider variety, you can always ask guests to bring a side of their choice. That way, your friends and family have a more extensive selection of food to choose from without causing more stress for you.
If you want to delegate a little more of the menu to guests, you can also ask for things other than only sides. Many people will likely be more than happy to bring other food options such as desserts or appetizers. Not only will this give you more options, but it will take even more stress off you planning the event.
#2 – Follow Grilling Guidelines to Ensure Your Guests are Safe
Proper grilling may seem like a process you wouldn’t have to research. However, there are a lot of factors to consider before lighting up your grill.
Each year, outdoor grills account for almost 5,000 structure fires. This is often from the misplacement of the grill in your outdoor space.
Though you may have an idea of how you want your backyard to look, keeping your grill in a safe location is extremely important. You may have to alter your design ideas. Grills should be at least 10 feet away from any structure to ensure safety.
Structures don’t only mean your home, either. Decks, sheds, and railings are all considered structures and could be at risk of catching fire. The last thing you want to deal with is a home fire insurance claim.
On top of protecting yourself from potential fires, you’ll also want to ensure that you are grilling your guests’ food safely. Handling meat safely and avoiding cross-contamination can help prevent food poisoning for your guests.
Washing your hands after handling meat or seafood, changing cooking utensils, and ensuring all meat is cooked to the correct temperature can help avoid any potential illness for both you and your guests.
#3 – Make Sure Guests Feel Accommodated
Considering how many guests you’ll have and what they need to feel accommodated is essential when planning an outdoor BBQ.
Be sure you have plenty of seating options for your guests to feel comfortable. While you may not need extra chairs, having at least enough for each person to have one is a good idea. That way, no one is stuck standing for long periods of time or fighting over seats.
Lights are also a good option to accommodate guests visiting your home. If your event will go into the evening hours, having outdoor lighting can not only elevate the mood of your party but can also help guests better navigate their way through your backyard.
Also, make sure you have plenty of plates, cups, napkins, and silverware. These are likely items your guests may use more than one of, so having plenty of extras is a safe bet and ensures you don’t run out.
Drinks are also an essential item you’ll likely want to stock up on. Having a variety of drinks is an easy and simple way to accommodate everyone. Options like different soda flavors, water, juice, and possibly some alcoholic beverages for those over 21 are perfect crowd-pleasers.
#4 – Don’t Skip Out on Entertainment
While your guests likely won’t expect a live concert performance at your BBQ, it is a good idea to have a little entertainment for everyone. This could be as simple as setting up a radio with fun music playing or as complex as creating group games for everyone to partake in.
Fun games such as horseshoes, cornhole, or ladder toss are all popular choices that many people already know how to play. Including some of these options for guests to enjoy can help up the fun factor of your event.
If children are attending your event, you can also set up fun activities for them, such as a craft station, sidewalk chalk, or a trampoline. Even a few toys set out for them can provide hours of fun entertainment.
If you have a pool in your backyard, it could also be a great form of entertainment for guests of all ages. Adding in items like rafts and floaties can allow friends and family to relax and enjoy the pool — which is especially nice if the weather is hot.
Throwing a Fun BBQ Right in Your Backyard
Hosting a backyard BBQ with your friends and family is an exciting event. However, there is more that goes into planning than meets the eye. It’s not always as simple as choosing a date and time and waiting for everyone to show up.
Menu planning, proper grilling safety, guest accommodations, and entertainment are all essential factors to consider when planning a BBQ. Following these simple steps ensures you and your guests are safe and have a wonderful time together. 
Alexandra Arcand writes and researches for the insurance comparison site, Clearsurance.com. She frequently hosts and attends outdoor BBQs and enjoys sharing her tips and tricks with others.