Summer in Sanford brings a certain ease to life. Flip-flops become the go-to footwear, drinks are best served chilled, and weekends are often filled with one thing: backyard BBQs.
If you’re planning to host one this season, don’t worry about having a sprawling yard, fancy furniture, or top-notch grilling skills. What you really need is good food, a few comfortable spots to sit, and an atmosphere that encourages your friends to stick around.
Here are 8 straightforward tips to help you throw a BBQ your friends will remember—without stressing yourself out in the process.
1. Set the mood, not a theme
There’s no need to go overboard with decorations. String up some lights, put together a playlist that matches the vibe (classic rock, country, or anything that screams summer), and light a few candles or lanterns as the sun sets. That’s all it takes to create a warm and inviting atmosphere in your backyard.
Bonus tip: If you enjoy music, invite your guests to contribute their favorite summer songs ahead of time. It’s always a nice surprise when someone hears their song play.
2. Keep the menu simple
No need to turn this into a gourmet affair. Stick to a few crowd-pleasers—burgers, hot dogs, grilled veggies, and maybe some chicken or ribs. A couple of solid side dishes (think pasta salad, fresh watermelon, or corn on the cob) can really enhance the meal. You might also consider setting up DIY food stations where guests can customize their meals—like a taco bar, pasta bar, or slider bar. And don’t forget to check if anyone has food allergies or dietary restrictions.
Pro tip: Choose items you can prepare ahead of time so you’re not juggling multiple tasks when guests arrive.
3. Do the prep before people arrive
If you find yourself constantly running back into the kitchen or flipping burgers while everyone else is enjoying the party, you’re not really hosting—you’re just working.
Chop your veggies, season your meat, and set up a self-serve drink station before the first knock at the door. This way, you can relax and enjoy the gathering too.
4. You don’t need matching patio furniture
Don’t stress if your outdoor seating doesn’t look like it belongs in a magazine. Mix and match chairs, toss down a few picnic blankets, or even bring out indoor stools or benches if you need to. All your guests need is a place to sit and chat while they enjoy their food.
Also, make sure there’s at least one shady spot if it’s a hot day. If you don’t have any trees, umbrellas or pop-up tents can make a big difference in keeping things cool.
5. Think about what the kids (and grown-ups) will do
If families are coming, set out a few easy games—think volleyball, sidewalk chalk, or a sprinkler for the kids to run through. For the adults, lawn games like cornhole or giant Jenga are always a hit. And s’mores over a fire pit? That’s a classic.
You don’t need a strict agenda, but having activities keeps the energy up and gives people a reason to linger a little longer.
6. Plan ahead for bugs
Nothing ruins a backyard gathering like mosquitoes. Light a few citronella candles, have bug spray on hand, and keep food covered when it’s out on the table. A small fan near the table can help too—bugs don’t like wind, and your guests will appreciate the breeze.
7. Don’t worry about decorations
Seriously, you don’t need them. A clean yard, some colorful napkins or paper plates, and a few fresh flowers in jars are more than enough. Nobody’s grading your hosting skills. They’re just happy to be invited.
8. Send people off with a little something (if you want to)
This is totally optional, but always appreciated: send guests home with a small snack, drink, or leftover treat. It doesn’t have to be elaborate—just a slice of pie wrapped in foil or a to-go cup of lemonade is a nice way to say thanks for coming.
Bottom line? Keep it easy.
The best backyard BBQs aren’t the ones where everything’s perfect—they’re the ones where everyone feels comfortable. Where laughter fills the air, people go back for seconds, and the gathering continues long after the sun sets.
So if you’re hosting this summer, don’t stress about making it picture-perfect. Just aim for relaxed, a little messy, and a lot of fun.
