Backyard BBQ Season Is Here: 8 Easy Tips for Hosting the Ultimate Summer Party in Eastern North Carolina

Summer in Eastern North Carolina brings a certain ease to life. Flip-flops become the footwear of choice, drinks are best served chilled, and weekends fill up with one thing: backyard BBQs. Whether you’re near the coast or nestled inland, there’s something about a summer gathering that just feels right.

If you’re planning to host a BBQ this season, don’t worry about having a sprawling yard, fancy outdoor furniture, or grilling like a pro. What really matters is good food, a few comfortable spots to sit, and a relaxed atmosphere that keeps everyone hanging around.

Here are 8 straightforward tips to help you throw a BBQ that your friends will remember—without turning it into a stressful event.

1. Set the mood, not a theme

You don’t need to go overboard with decorations. String lights can add a nice touch, and a playlist featuring classic rock or beach tunes can set the right vibe. As the sun sets, lighting a few candles or lanterns can create a warm, inviting atmosphere.

Bonus tip: If you enjoy music, invite your guests to contribute their favorite summer songs beforehand. It’s always fun to hear a familiar tune that brings back memories.

2. Keep the menu simple

No need to go gourmet. Stick to a few crowd-pleasers—burgers, hot dogs, grilled veggies, and perhaps some chicken or ribs. A couple of solid side dishes like pasta salad, fresh watermelon, or corn on the cob can complement the main dishes nicely. Consider setting up DIY food stations where guests can personalize their meals—think taco bar or 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 ahead of time to avoid scrambling when guests arrive.

3. Do the prep before people arrive

If you find yourself 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. Get ahead of the game by chopping veggies, seasoning meat, and setting up a self-serve drink station before your guests arrive. 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, throw down a few picnic blankets, or even bring out some indoor stools if needed. Your guests just need a place to sit and chat while they eat.

Also, consider providing some shade if it’s a hot day. If you don’t have trees, umbrellas or pop-up tents can help keep everyone cool.

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

If families are coming, have a few easy games ready—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 keep things lively. And who doesn’t love roasting s’mores over a fire pit? It’s a classic that never fails to impress.

You don’t need a strict agenda, but having activities available keeps the energy up and gives everyone a reason to stick around a bit longer.

6. Plan ahead for bugs

Nothing can ruin a backyard gathering faster than mosquitoes. Light some citronella candles, have bug spray on hand, and keep food covered when it’s out. A small fan near the table can help too—bugs dislike 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 judging your hosting skills; they’re just happy to be invited.

8. Send people off with a little something (if you want to)

Totally optional, but always appreciated: send guests home with a small snack, drink, or leftover treat. It doesn’t have to be a thing—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 about perfection—they’re about creating a comfortable atmosphere. They’re the gatherings where laughter fills the air, people go back for seconds, and guests linger long after the sun sets.

So if you’re hosting this summer, don’t stress about making everything picture-perfect. Just focus on being relaxed, a little messy, and having a lot of fun.