It’s summer, and if you have access to a public spot, own a yard, or a serene rooftop, then it’s time to organize a cookout. Of course, you can gather hot dogs and burgers, but if you want it to be memorable, there are other additions and tips to make the most out of it.

If you want a party where guests will look forward to enjoying delicious pizza made right in your backyard pizza oven, this is the guide for you.

In this guide, we’ll reveal how to throw the ultimate cookout with style. If you love a merry gathering, here are some simple tips to help you plan and achieve a memorable cookout party.

1. Prepare a Plan

Every gathering or party needs a strong foundation which starts from the party plan. Proper planning makes the cookout process move smoothly for you and your friends. It’s simple, think about the who, what, when, and where parameters, and it will save you from stress. Make a list

• Who are you inviting or attending- It’s the perfect opportunity to catch up with family and friends. Consider the categories of individuals attending since they will determine the location and menu. Will children or seniors be among them? Plan accordingly.
• When – There are many opportunities to host the cookout. Holidays, birthdays, school breaks, and weekends. Fix a time after you have confirmed a date.
• Where – After you know the number of people attending, you can decide how large the venue will be. Also, consider transportation, parking logistics, and bathrooms, among others. Some excellent ideas include a park, beachfront, pool, lake, backyard, rent a rooftop, or an event center.

2. Menu

Sticking to dishes, you know, you’re relaxed and confident making. If you want a meal at your party and don’t know how to prepare it, learn and practice cooking it. Don’t be afraid to delegate and look for someone who knows how to cook it. This way, you will have a supervisory role and spend more time with your guests. Here are more factors to consider

• Amount of Visitors – cooking food for 20 people isn’t the same for 7
• Venue – If the place isn’t close by, find how you will move around. Also, consider foods that will arrive pre-made. Also, how will you keep pre-cooked food at the right temperature?
• Time – if you don’t have enough time for preparations, don’t stress yourself with decorative dishes. Budget – How much cash do you want to spend.  Use your financial flow to determine the amount of food the party will have.

Most times, when we discuss cookout or barbeques, we mention meat. But it’s good to provide diversity. Use salads, fruits, and confectionaries: incorporate desserts, muffins, and cakes.  Add glamour to your party and make your party pizza. 

Below are other great options for a cookout.

• Core grilled dishes include Grilled Honey-Chipotle Chicken, Hawaiian Hot Dog, Baked Salmon, Mac & Cheese Dog, Grilled BBQ Chicken, Red, White, & Bleu Burger. Others include Steakhouse Burgers, and Carolina Pulled Pork BBQ, BBQ Beef Brisket Sandwich, and many more.
• Desserts- lemon berry trifle, raspberry yogurt, chocolate pudding, brownies, and others
• Drinks- beer, wine, spirits, margaritas, juice, and others.

3. Grilling

• Wipe the grill with onion to clean and add spice.
• Heat the grill before the arrival of guests.
• Safely ignite the charcoal by placing it in a carton first.
• Delegate grilling to someone else if you don’t know how to do it.
• Provide adequate charcoal or gas.
• Cook veggies before grilling meat and reheat later.
• Look for quality meat, spice, and vegetables. They are worth it, and your food will be delicious. 

4. Music and Games

Music is an excellent additive.  Prepare catchy tunes on a music device with speakers ready. Or plan to have a band or live music. Besides, prepare assortments of games for your guests. If children are attending, plan well ahead for them. A few good games include Jenga, badminton, twister, croquet, and others.

5. Safety Precautions

Be prepared for anything. Remember, food and fire safety. If you are cooking with the convenience of a propane fire pit or open fire for the first time, be particularly cautious of your surroundings and the wind. Keep anything that catches fire quickly away and never leave the set-up alone.

Keep the grill or smoker in a spot some distance to any building. There are stories of cookouts turning to disasters. Beside keep a hose nearby. Keep insecticides, sunblock, and wipes at designated spots around the venue.

Other Tips

• Plan for your leftover. You can freeze some of them or give them as take away packages to guests.
• Rent pop-up tents in case of rain.
• If there will be kids at the party, create a corner for them with games and other playthings.
• Assemble a well-located trash post.
• Inform your neighbors early about your party. Besides, invite them to come over.
• Make sure there are enough seats and tables at the location.

A cookout doesn’t always have to be about food.  Plan ahead, think about how to make a difference with your party. Use ambient décor, good music, and entertainment to spice things up. Plan so you and your guests can focus on creating an unforgettable cookout.