BBQ Party Ideas: Food, Drinks, Games and Decorations

A barbecue is the easiest summer party: everyone outside, food on the grill and games on the lawn.

Here's how to plan one, including a plan B for British weather.

BBQ food ideas

  • Burgers and sausages
  • Chicken thighs or skewers
  • Halloumi and veg skewers
  • Corn on the cob
  • Marinated prawns
  • Portobello mushroom burgers
  • Plant-based sausages

Sides

  • Coleslaw
  • Potato salad
  • Pasta salad
  • Green salad
  • Garlic bread
  • Watermelon

Games and extras

  • Garden games. View guide
  • Bunting and fairy lights
  • A playlist
  • Citronella candles
  • Blankets for the evening

Rain plan

  • A gazebo or awning
  • Clear an indoor space
  • Oven backup for the food

Key things to remember

  • Cook vegetarian food first or on a separate grill.
  • Make sure meat is cooked through: piping hot with no pink.

Frequently asked questions

What do you serve at a BBQ party?

Burgers, sausages, chicken, veggie skewers, salads and garlic bread.

How do you keep a BBQ party going if it rains?

Have a gazebo, an indoor space and the oven as backup.

What is a good example of bBQ party ideas?

"Burgers and sausages" is one of 21 examples on this page. Pick the one closest to the tone you want, then add a specific detail of your own - a shared memory, a date, a name - so it reads as yours rather than copied.

Can I copy these messages word for word?

Yes. Everything on this page is free to copy, print and read out - no permission or credit needed. Changing one detail so it fits the person is all we would suggest.

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