Backyard BBQ Season Is Here: 8 Easy Tips for Hosting the Ultimate Summer Party in Southwest Washington

Summer in Southwest Washington brings a sense of ease. Flip-flops make their seasonal debut, drinks are served ice-cold, and weekends are often filled with one thing: backyard BBQs.

If you're planning to host one this season, remember that you don’t need a sprawling yard, designer furniture, or Michelin-star grilling skills. What you really need is good food, enough seating for everyone, and a welcoming atmosphere that encourages guests to stick around.

Here are 8 straightforward tips to help you throw a BBQ your friends will remember—without the stress.

1. Set the mood, not a theme

No need to go overboard with decorations. String lights can create a cozy atmosphere, and a playlist featuring classic rock or some laid-back reggae will set the right tone. Once the sun sets, light a few candles or lanterns to keep the ambiance warm and inviting.

Bonus tip: If you enjoy music, invite your guests to contribute their favorite summer songs to the playlist ahead of time. It’s always fun when someone hears “their” song play.

2. Keep the menu simple

There’s no need to go gourmet. Stick to a few reliable favorites—burgers, hot dogs, grilled veggies, and maybe some chicken or ribs. A couple of solid side dishes like pasta salad, fresh watermelon, or corn on the cob can really complement the main course. Consider setting up DIY food stations where guests can customize their meals—think taco bar or a slider station. And don’t forget to check for any food allergies or dietary restrictions among your guests.

Pro tip: Choose items you can prepare in advance so you’re not juggling too many tasks when guests arrive.

3. Do the prep before people arrive

If you’re constantly running back to the kitchen or stuck flipping burgers while everyone else is enjoying themselves, 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 guest arrives. This way, you can relax and enjoy the party 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, lay down a few picnic blankets, or even bring out indoor stools or benches if needed. Guests just need 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 trees, consider using umbrellas or pop-up tents to keep things cool.

5. Think about what the kids (and grown-ups) will do

If families are coming, set out a few simple games—think volleyball, sidewalk chalk, or even a sprinkler for the kids to run through. For the adults, lawn games like bocce or giant Jenga can be a hit. And s’mores over a fire pit? Always a crowd-pleaser.

You don’t need a strict agenda, but having activities keeps the energy up and gives everyone a reason to linger a little longer.

6. Plan ahead for bugs

Nothing can ruin a backyard gathering like mosquitoes. Light some citronella candles, have bug spray on hand, and keep food covered when it’s out on the table. A small fan near the dining area can help too—bugs dislike wind, and your guests will appreciate the breeze.

7. Don’t worry about decorations

Seriously, decorations aren’t necessary. A clean yard, some colorful napkins or paper plates, and a few fresh flowers in jars are more than enough. Nobody’s judging 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 extravagant—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 is loud, seconds are common, and guests linger long after the sun goes down.

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.