How to Plan a Perfect Backyard Cookout

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How to Plan the Perfect Backyard Cookout

Fire up the grill, dust off the lawn chairs, and get ready for some good old-fashioned Midwestern hospitality!

Backyard cookouts are a summertime staple, but how do you plan a backyard barbecue party that goes beyond burgers and hot dogs?

I’m sharing all my best party-planning tips to help you host an unforgettable backyard cookout

So save this post and get ready for fun and easy cookout party ideas.

Choosing a theme for your backyard cookout can set the tone for the entire event and make it both fun and memorable!

For a classic backyard cookout look, stick to traditional BBQ colors like red, white, and hints of blue or green.

A red and white checkered tablecloth is a cookout staple, and use simple, rustic elements like mason jars, lanterns, vintage crates, and galvanized metal buckets to add a decorative touch.

For a more tropical feel, a Hawaiian luau is a perfect summer cookout theme.

Or, for a laid-back coastal-inspired theme, consider a low country boil.

No matter which theme you choose, the ultimate goal is to create a welcoming and fun atmosphere where your friends and family can relax and enjoy good food and company.

Planning Tips for Hosting a Fun and Stress-Free Backyard Cookout

In my experience as an event planner, the most important tip I can give anyone throwing a party is to plan ahead.

There’s a saying that planning makes perfect, and it’s definitely true for outdoor cookouts!

The more you prep beforehand, the less stressed you’ll be on the big day, and the more fun you can have with your family and friends.

First, think about how many guests will be at your backyard cookout to make sure there is plenty of seating for everyone.

You can mix and match picnic tables, and lawn chairs, or even lay down a few blankets and outdoor throw pillows for a relaxed feel.

Make a list of all the food and party supplies you need for the big day.

Stock up on items like charcoal or propane, and canned and non-perishable groceries.

And don’t forget to clean your grill or smoker thoroughly beforehand and make sure you have grilling tools like tongs, spatulas, and a grill brush readily available.

From Prep to Plate: Tips for Setting Up a Functional Cookout Food Table

To keep things easy for your guests, create designated stations on your backyard cookout buffet.

Small galvanized buckets organize silverware making it simple for your family and friends to grab on their way to the food.

Disposable plates make party clean-up quick and easy.

But since breeze-free days are rare here in Nebraska, I opted for something a bit different.

Sturdy white melamine plates that look just like paper – perfect for withstanding gusty winds.

Keep things cohesive with color-coordinated napkins.

I love the pop of mint against a classic red and white checkered tablecloth for a fun summer look!

Arrange stations for your main course, summer sides, and desserts.

And a large gallon-sized beverage dispenser paired with ball jars for drinking glasses works perfectly to create a dedicated drink station.

Backyard BBQ Ideas on a Budget: Creative Centerpieces to Wow Your Guests

If you need some easy backyard cookout decoration ideas, you can create a charming and affordable centerpiece with just a picnic basket and a few plants!

Fill the basket with colorful red and white potted flowers and add some greenery for a summery touch.

For an extra pop of color, flank the basket with red lanterns and mint-colored lanterns on either side.

Place some flameless candles or small votives inside, and then light them up as the sun sets for extra outdoor lighting.

And keep pesky bugs at bay with DIY citronella tabletop torches.

They are simple to make and ready to use in less than 10 minutes!

What to Serve for Your Backyard Cookout Menu

And now, for the most important part of any cookout…the menu!

If you’re looking for some easy cookout food for large groups, you can never go wrong with classic hamburgers or brats.

Or you can offer other options like smoked beer can chicken, grilled steak and vegetable kabobs, or mouthwatering smoked pork ribs.

Pair your main dishes with other cookout staples.

Fresh watermelon, fruit salad, savory baked beans, and a variety of summer salads like creamy broccoli or potato salad, are all classics.

And no backyard cookout is complete without a few pasta salads on the menu.

Cucumber penne pasta salad is a favorite in our family.

Or whip up a bowl of bacon ranch pasta salad. (Because who doesn’t love bacon?!?)

Have a variety of cold beverages available, including water, lemonade iced tea, and beers.

And consider offering a signature summer cocktail like spiked strawberry lemonade.

Of course, you can’t forget about dessert!

S’mores cookie bars are a tasty addition to any BBQ party menu.

You can also serve mini caramel apple pies, or individual summer berry trifles for some easy bite-sized treats.

Party Planning Pro Tip: Sharing makes it easy. Planning a cookout and preparing all the food can get a little overwhelming. But it doesn’t have to be!

Don’t hesitate to ask your guests to bring a side dish to share. Throwing a potluck-style party helps lighten the load.

Remember, a backyard cookout is all about celebrating together, and a potluck makes the party a relaxed gathering for everyone—including you!

Shop to Host a BBQ Party at Home

More Outdoor Summer Entertaining Inspiration from Midwest Life and Style

If you enjoyed this post, you might also like these other summer outdoor dining ideas

Let the Backyard Cookout Begin

Thank you for stopping by!

From planning themes to setting up the buffet station, I hope this post has given you all the inspiration and tips you need to throw a backyard cookout your friend and family will love.

Feel free to leave any questions or comments below.

Don’t forget to pin this post to save it for later.

And remember to check out even more cookout party inspiration from my friends linked below.

Cheers!

More Backyard Cookout Ideas and Inspiration

I’ve teamed up with my friends from our virtual supper club to share even more ideas and inspiration with you for planning and hosting a summer cookout party.

Simply click on the links below to see more cookout tablescapes.

WM Design House⎟Vintage Home Designs

Simply 2 Moms⎟The Ponds Farmhouse