21 Must-Haves for a Fourth of July Barbecue
Everything You Need to Throw a Patriotic Backyard Bash.
Planning an epic Fourth of July barbecue? Whether it’s an annual tradition or your first time playing host, we’ve rounded up a list of everything you’ll need to make the day memorable, festive, and fun.
1. Durable serving pieces.
Resilient, lightweight melamine plates, bowls, and trays allow for casual, stress-free serving (no need to worry about breaking anything!). Plus, melamine is sturdier than paper service, and reusable, too.
2. Drink stations.
Eliminate the need to play bartender at your party by mixing up a variety of cocktails in beverage dispensers before guests arrive. Or create a frozen drink station by setting out a recipe, ingredients, and a blender on a table and allowing guests to help themselves.
3. Lawn games.
No backyard barbecue would be complete without a little friendly competition. Set up a bocce or bag-toss tournament, or challenge friends to a game of croquet.
4. A covered seating area.
Whether your Fourth turns out hot and sunny or rainy and cool, guests will appreciate a covered seating area. Set up tables and chairs under a tent where partygoers can grab a bite, catch up, or take a break from the sun.
5. Stars & stripes.
Celebrate Independence Day and create a fun, festive atmosphere with decor in red, white and blue.
6. Ways to beat the heat.
On a hot day, offering guests a way to cool down is a must. Set up patio umbrellas for added shade, and offer ice-filled buckets stocked with chilled water and sunscreen.
7. The right grill gadgets.
Specialized tools like a mini burger-maker and a digital meat thermometer will not only allow for more efficient cooking, but help you elevate your grill skills into the stuff of neighborhood legends.
