How to Host a Perfect Barbecue Party

It’s when the sunny days come that people spend more time in their gardens. Many people have attended and enjoyed barbecues in their time. It may be that you fancy trying your hand at this for the first time ever. You might think that other people can do it, so why can’t you? 

Once the wheels are set in motion, however, it can feel like a daunting task. There seem to be so many things to think about. The event needs to feel like a relaxed gathering, but there will always be that concern in case anything goes wrong. Fortunately, there are a number of things that can be done to make the experience as stress-free as possible. We are going to take a look at them together right now. 

Choose The Best Date

The closer the event, the easier it will be to predict the weather. Don’t go for a potentially rainy day. Imagine trying to light a barbecue in strong winds, or having your home full of excited children instead of them being outside. A gazebo might be a good option, as this can provide protection from the sun or the rain. 

It may be best to create a Facebook event and poll people about possible dates. It’s important to be realistic here: there may never be a day when all your friends are free at the same time. 

Think About The Food

There may be people who can’t eat wheat, dairy, or gluten. Others may be vegetarian or vegan. They will all need something to eat. When inviting people, ask them to advise on their dietary requirements if they are able to attend.

When it comes to cooking choices, the internet can be a savior. It’s possible to find great smoker recipes online for all kinds of meat lovers. People can choose from beef brisket to baby back ribs, or from beer can chicken to wood-smoked turkey. Some websites also provide helpful articles on things like grilling and outdoor cooking. Some food can be prepared the night before. This would include making salads or marinating the meat. 

Consider Who Will Cook

Working the barbecue will be a full-time job. The only people the cook will be speaking to will be those coming for food. If you are confident to do the cooking, great. Some people really enjoy doing it, however, and won’t even see it as a chore or a favor. How long the cooking will take depends on the choice of food and the number of guests.  

Decide Who Brings What

Sometimes people bring their own meat to cook, but it’s most practical if the host covers this angle. It’s always great when people are asked to bring drinks. Make sure there are some sugar-free options for dieters or diabetic folk. If budgeting is an issue, ask some people to provide puddings instead of drinks. 

Clean The Barbecue 

This will be particularly appropriate if it’s the first time of the year that it’s being used. Remove anything that is stuck to the grills and heat up the metal if that helps with the process. If the barbecue unit is old and rusty, perhaps it might be time to invest in a new one. 

Think About Seats and Lighting

If you can’t supply sufficient seats, this could be another thing for guests to be asked to bring. Some people may plan to eat indoors, but if there are children it will be best to encourage them to eat outside. 

Outdoor lighting may be an option worth looking into. It could mean people will be able to stay later into the evening. Be sensitive to any neighbors, however. This particularly applies if they are not invited!

Entertain the Kids

When children get together they are full of energy and become quickly excited. Anyone who will be busy cooking food will not have time to keep them entertained, but there are still options. Some people hire bouncy castles for such an event or create some simple games to keep the children occupied. What’s important, though, is that these kids have a good time without endangering themselves or causing annoyance to the people at your party.

Miscellaneous Thoughts

When the meat is grilled on a barbecue it quickly appears cooked on the outside. This can be deceptive, however. Some meat thermometers can be inserted into burgers and instantly advise whether they are safe to eat. Don’t forget to put out some spices and condiments. People may want tomato or barbecue sauce, or cheese. Burger buns will also be heavily sought after. 

It may be best to start with a modestly sized barbecue and then to build up the numbers over time. With more experience will come more confidence. You may become a fantastic host, enabling friends and relatives to enjoy precious moments together, while they enjoy your quality cooking.