Hosting a summer barbecue is a great way to spend time with family and friends and enjoy the outdoors. Spending time in the sun with loved ones sharing food, drinks, and outdoor activities is one of the best parts of summer.

From the games to the food, here are some tips for hosting a backyard BBQ that will have your guests reminiscing for years to come.

The Food

When you’re planning a summer BBQ, keep the food simple. You want to spend more time with your guests than putting out a 13-course meal.

Here are some barbecue party ideas to get you going.

Using your grill is key. A few ideas for the grill include the classic hamburgers and hot dogs, corn on the cob, and vegetable skewers.

Mac and cheese, a fresh summer salad, and a crockpot with baked beans make delicious add-ons to a summer menu. Both the mac and cheese can be placed in crock pots, so after they are plugged in, you can keep them on warm and be free to mingle.

For appetizers and desserts, keep them to quick. Finger foods are a great option. Chips and dips and vegetable trays are easy for your guests to grab while playing games and talking.

Fruit makes a great side, appetizer, or dessert on a hot summer day.

Some fun ideas for dessert include a classic popsicle assortment and a sundae bar. Candy, sprinkles, cookies, brownies, and fruit all make great toppings. This will be a big hit with both adults and kids.

The Games

Outdoor games go hand in hand with a BBQ themed party. A summer BBQ is a great place to enjoy some play time.

From bags to dart boards, there are a ton of fun options out there.

Bristle or electronic dart boards are tons of fun at parties. They can be played individually or with teams and will provide hours of entertainment. It’s a great way to keep the party going.

Bags or corn hole is another fun game a few people can play together outside. With both darts and bags, you can even make a mini-tournament out of it.

Water tables, sprinklers, slip, and slides or small pools are great items to put out for small children. Kids are always entertained when water is around.

For older kids, water guns and water balloons can be fun additions.

The Drinks

Drinks can make or break a party.

Coolers with beers, waters, and juice boxes are an easy way to please the masses.

For some fun additions, think about a summer party punch. Spiked lemonade, margaritas or mojitos are refreshing options on a hot summer day.

Hosting a Backyard BBQ Wrap-Up

With these tips for hosting a backyard BBQ, you’ll be party throwing like a pro. From the food to the games, just remember to keep it simple and have fun.

Don’t spend too much time on a complicated menu and instead, enjoy your company.

A summer BBQ is a great time to catch up with loved ones and enjoy the beautiful weather.

Your guests will have a blast just spending time with you and your family with these fun backyard BBQ ideas.