Welcome to our complete, detailed and ultimate guide on how to throw an outdoor BBQ party. This is a truly awesome party to host throughout the summertime. It is a great way to bring friends and family together and does not have to be strictly all about eating BBQ meats such as steaks, chicke, burgers and sausages.
Let us dive straight into our complete guide on hot to throw an outdoor BBQ party.
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How to Throw a Outdoor BBQ Party – The Ultimate Guide
What is an Outdoor BBQ Party
An outdoor BBQ party is a social gathering where food is cooked on a barbecue grill outdoors, and people eat, drink, and socialize together. It’s a classic summertime event that’s perfect for celebrating any occasion, from birthdays and holidays to just getting together with friends and family.
Outdoor BBQ Party Decorations
When you throw an outdoor BBQ party the great thing is you really do not need to worry all that much about party decorations. After all this could simply by a party used as an excuse to get together with family and friends.
With that said you may want to consider certain items to make your yard look inviting to your guests.
Below we have listed some ideas for outdoor party decorations you may want to use.
String Lights: Hang string lights around the outdoor area to add a warm and festive glow, creating a cozy ambiance for evening gatherings.
Table Centerpieces: Use simple and rustic centerpieces for tables, such as mason jars filled with wildflowers, or small potted plants.
Banners and Bunting: Decorate the party space with banners or bunting in bright colors or themed patterns to add a playful touch.
Outdoor Rugs or Blankets: Create comfortable seating areas with outdoor rugs or blankets. This not only adds a decorative element but also enhances the comfort of your guests.
BBQ-Themed Signage: Design or purchase signs that showcase the BBQ theme. This could include humorous quotes about grilling or directions to different food and drink stations.
Tablecloths and Napkins: Choose vibrant and durable tablecloths for your serving and dining areas. Coordinate them with matching napkins for a cohesive look.
Themed Plates and Cups: Opt for BBQ-themed disposable plates and cups or invest in reusable ones that match the overall theme.
Patio Umbrellas or Tents: Provide shade with patio umbrellas or tents, especially if your outdoor BBQ is during sunny hours. This ensures the comfort of your guests.
Chalkboard or Whiteboard Menu: Display the menu on a chalkboard or whiteboard to let guests know what delicious BBQ delights await them.
Floral Arrangements: Incorporate fresh flowers or greenery into your decor for a touch of natural beauty. Consider placing them in vases or even using them as part of your table settings.
Outdoor BBQ Party Food
The great thing when you throw an outdoor BBQ party is the fact you really do not need to put that much thought into the choices of food. After all when it comes to a BBQ everyone has a pretty good idea about the selection of food that will be on offer.
As the host the only thing you really need to consider is that you may have certain guests with specific dietary requirements.
Below we have listed the traditional food you should be considering when you throw an outdoor BBQ party.
- Grilled Burgers: Classic beef, turkey, or veggie burgers.
- Hot Dogs: Various types of sausages or hot dogs.
- Steaks: Ribeye, sirloin, or flank steaks cooked to perfection.
- Chicken Wings: Marinated and grilled or smoked for a flavorful twist.
- Kebabs: Skewers with a mix of meats, vegetables, and marinades.
- Grilled Vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, mushrooms, and more.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled or roasted with butter and spices.
- Seafood: Grilled shrimp, salmon, or other fish options.
- BBQ Ribs: Slow-cooked and slathered in barbecue sauce.
- Pulled Pork Sandwiches: Slow-cooked and shredded pork.
- Grilled Pizza: Individual pizzas cooked on the grill.
- Sides: Baked beans, coleslaw, macaroni and cheese, and potato salad.
- Condiments: Ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, pickles, and relish.
- Salads: Fresh salads with greens, tomatoes, and other veggies.
- Dips: Guacamole, salsa, queso, or spinach and artichoke dip.
- Bread: Buns, rolls, or slices for sandwiches.
- Fruit Skewers: Grilled fruit skewers or fresh fruit platters.
- Desserts: Ice cream, pie, brownies, or fruit crisps.
Outdoor BBQ Party Games
When you throw an outdoor BBQ party it is a fair to assume the majority of your guests will be content to enjoy the food. However, with that said, providing a few outdoor games will really help your guests relax and have a great time.
Here are some great ideas for outdoor BBQ party games.
Cornhole: Set up a cornhole board and have a friendly bean bag tossing competition. It’s a classic game that’s easy to play and suits all ages.
Backyard Bowling: Create a DIY bowling alley in your backyard using plastic bottles as pins and a soft ball as the bowling ball.
Backyard Jenga: Make a giant Jenga set using wooden blocks. Players take turns removing a block from the tower and balancing it on top without causing it to tumble.
Lawn Twister: Spray-paint circles on the grass in the style of the classic Twister game. It adds a colorful and entertaining element to your outdoor party.
Frisbee or Disc Golf: Set up a frisbee golf course or simply enjoy a casual game of frisbee. It’s a low-key, active game that everyone can participate in.
Ladder Toss: Also known as “ladder golf” or “hillbilly golf,” this game involves throwing bolas onto a ladder-like structure. Each rung has a different point value.
Ring Toss: Create a ring toss game using large rings and stakes. It’s a simple yet engaging game that can be enjoyed by both kids and adults.
Horseshoes: Set up a horseshoe pit and challenge your guests to a game of horseshoes. It’s a classic game that adds a touch of nostalgia to the party.
Water Balloon Toss: If it’s a warm day, a water balloon toss can be a refreshing and entertaining game. Participants pair up, and each round the toss distance increases.
Giant Connect Four: Create a large outdoor version of the classic Connect Four game. It provides strategic fun for players of all ages.
Duck Pond Matching Game: Fill a kiddie pool with water, float rubber ducks with numbers on their bottoms, and have guests pick a duck. Match the number to a prize for a simple and enjoyable game.
DIY Photo Booth: Set up a photo booth area with props and a backdrop. It’s not a traditional game, but it adds a fun and memorable element to the party.
Outdoor BBQ Party Music
Choosing the right music for your outdoor BBQ party can enhance the atmosphere and keep everyone in a festive mood. Here’s a diverse playlist that spans different genres and is suitable for an outdoor BBQ setting:
- “Sweet Home Alabama” – Lynyrd Skynyrd
- “Summertime” – DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince
- “Brown Eyed Girl” – Van Morrison
- “I Gotta Feeling” – The Black Eyed Peas
- “Chicken Fried” – Zac Brown Band
- “Old Town Road” – Lil Nas X ft. Billy Ray Cyrus
- “Three Little Birds” – Bob Marley & The Wailers
- “Dancing in the Moonlight” – Toploader
- “Uptown Funk” – Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars
- “Wagon Wheel” – Old Crow Medicine Show
- “Hot in Herre” – Nelly
- “Margaritaville” – Jimmy Buffett
- “Can’t Stop the Feeling!” – Justin Timberlake
- “Drops of Jupiter” – Train
- “Hey Ya!” – OutKast
- “Cake by the Ocean” – DNCE
- “Blinding Lights” – The Weeknd
- “I Will Survive” – Gloria Gaynor
- “Cruise” – Florida Georgia Line
- “Happy” – Pharrell Williams
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Outdoor BBQ Party Favors
If you plan on saying a great big thank you to all your guests a great way to do this is by giving out party favors. Below we have listed a selection of BBQ themed party favors that your guests will truly love especially if they happen to love BBQ.
Grilling Tools Set: Provide guests with a small grilling tools set, such as a spatula, tongs, or a basting brush. Personalize them with a tag or engraving for a thoughtful touch.
Customized Aprons: Gift personalized aprons featuring a fun BBQ-themed design or a witty phrase. Consider matching the apron colors to the overall theme of the party.
Mason Jar Mugs: Distribute mason jar mugs with lids and straws for a rustic and practical gift. Guests can use them during the party and take them home as a useful keepsake.
BBQ Sauce or Rub: Package homemade or high-quality store-bought BBQ sauce or rub in decorative bottles or jars. Attach a label with a thank-you message for a tasty and thematic favor.
Reusable Food Storage Containers: Provide reusable food storage containers for guests to take home leftovers. Choose eco-friendly options to align with sustainability goals.
Customized Koozies: Keep beverages cool with customized koozies featuring the event date, a fun BBQ-related image, or a humorous quote.
Scented Candles: Gift guests with scented candles that evoke the aroma of a barbecue. Popular scents could include hickory, mesquite, or even a sweet and spicy BBQ fragrance.
Gourmet Popcorn: Package gourmet popcorn in individual bags with flavors like barbecue, cheddar, or caramel. It’s a delightful and shareable treat.
Sunscreen and Bug Spray: For outdoor events, practical items like sunscreen and bug spray can be appreciated by guests. Package them together in a summer-themed tote bag.
Bamboo or Wooden Utensils: Opt for eco-friendly bamboo or wooden utensils like forks and knives. Tie them together with twine and attach a thank-you tag.
Seed Packets: Encourage guests to grow their own herbs or vegetables with seed packets. Choose varieties that can be used in grilling, such as basil or cilantro.
S’mores Kit: Put together s’mores kits with graham crackers, marshmallows, and chocolate. Include a note to remind guests to enjoy a sweet treat later.
Picnic Blankets: Provide foldable picnic blankets for guests to use during the party and take home for future outdoor adventures.
Mini Succulents: Gift small succulents or cacti in decorative pots. They add a touch of greenery and are easy for guests to care for.
What to Wear to a Outdoor BBQ Party
When it comes to what you should wear to an outdoor BBQ party there really is no hard and fast rules. The best thing you can opt for with this type of party is to wear whatever you happen to feel comfortable in. You may want to consider that this party is likely to be held in the summer so be aware you may need to cover up from the summer sun.
Here are some ideas of what you could wear to an outdoor BBQ party.
For Women
Casual Sundress: Opt for a comfortable and breezy sundress in light fabrics and vibrant colors. It’s a classic choice that keeps you cool while maintaining a chic appearance.
Denim Shorts and Tank Top: Pairing denim shorts with a stylish tank top provides a laid-back, summer-ready look. Consider playful patterns or bright colors for a festive touch.
Maxi Skirt and T-Shirt: A flowy maxi skirt paired with a fitted T-shirt strikes a balance between comfort and style. Add a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses for extra flair.
Romper or Jumpsuit: Rompers and jumpsuits are easy, one-piece solutions that offer comfort and style. Choose a fun print or a solid color that complements the outdoor vibe.
Casual Jeans and Off-Shoulder Top: If the weather is a bit cooler, go for a pair of comfortable jeans with an off-shoulder or cold-shoulder top. It adds a touch of casual elegance.
Sneakers or Sandals: Opt for comfortable footwear like sneakers or stylish sandals. This ensures you’re ready for any lawn games or casual strolls.
Wide-Brimmed Hat: Shield yourself from the sun with a fashionable wide-brimmed hat. It not only serves a practical purpose but also adds a stylish element to your ensemble.
Statement Earrings: Elevate your look with a pair of statement earrings. They add a touch of glamour without being overly formal.
For Men:
Chino Shorts and Polo Shirt: Chino shorts paired with a polo shirt create a polished yet relaxed look. Choose colors that complement the outdoor setting.
Casual Button-Down Shirt and Khakis: Opt for a short-sleeved button-down shirt with comfortable khaki pants. This ensemble strikes a nice balance between casual and put-together.
Graphic T-Shirt and Shorts: A comfortable graphic T-shirt paired with shorts is a classic BBQ outfit. Choose a shirt that reflects your personality or adds a touch of humor.
Cargo Pants and Henley Shirt: Cargo pants provide a casual and functional option. Pair them with a henley shirt for a comfortable and stylish look.
Linen Shirt and Shorts: Linen shirts are lightweight and perfect for warm weather. Combine one with shorts for a breezy, summer-friendly outfit.
Boat Shoes or Sneakers: Complete your look with comfortable boat shoes or sneakers. They’re practical choices for an outdoor setting.
Baseball Cap or Fedora: Protect yourself from the sun with a stylish baseball cap or a laid-back fedora.
Sunglasses: Don’t forget a pair of sunglasses to shield your eyes from the sun while adding a cool element to your outfit.
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