Backyard BBQ Season Is Here: 8 Easy Tips for Hosting the Ultimate Summer Party in Sheboygan County

Summer in Sheboygan County brings a sense of ease. Flip-flops make their seasonal debut, drinks are served chilled, and weekends fill up with one thing: backyard BBQs. Whether you’re near the shores of Lake Michigan or nestled in one of our charming neighborhoods, it’s the perfect time to gather friends and family for a cookout.

If you’re planning to host a BBQ this season, don’t worry about having a sprawling yard, fancy outdoor furniture, or top-tier grilling skills. What you really need is good food, a few comfortable spots to sit, and an atmosphere that encourages everyone to relax and enjoy themselves.

Here are 8 easy tips to help you throw a BBQ your friends will remember—without the stress.

1. Set the mood, not a theme

You don’t need to go overboard with decorations. String lights can add a cozy touch, and a playlist featuring classic rock or summer tunes can set the right vibe. As the sun sets, light some candles or lanterns to create a warm ambiance. It’s all about making your yard feel inviting.

Bonus tip: If you enjoy music, invite your guests to contribute their favorite summer songs to the playlist. There’s something special about hearing a friend’s favorite track during the party.

2. Keep the menu simple

No need to go gourmet. Stick to a few crowd-pleasers—burgers, hot dogs, grilled veggies, and maybe some chicken or ribs. A couple of solid side dishes like pasta salad, fresh watermelon, or corn on the cob will complement the main fare nicely. Consider setting up DIY food stations where guests can customize their meals—think taco bar or slider bar. And don’t forget to check for any food allergies or dietary restrictions among your guests.

Pro tip: Choose items you can prepare in advance so you can enjoy the party instead of juggling multiple tasks 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 the party, 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 the first guests arrive. This way, you can relax and socialize 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 some picnic blankets, or even bring out indoor stools or benches if needed. Guests just need a place to sit and enjoy their food while chatting.

Also, make sure there’s at least one shady spot if it’s a hot day. If you don’t have trees for shade, consider using umbrellas or pop-up tents to keep things cool.

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

If families are coming, set out a few simple games—think volleyball, sidewalk chalk, or even a sprinkler for the kids to run through. For the adults, lawn games like bocce or giant Jenga are always a hit. And s’mores over a fire pit? That’s a classic that never disappoints.

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

6. Plan ahead for bugs

Nothing ruins a backyard hangout like mosquitos. Light a few citronella candles, set out bug spray, and keep food covered when it’s out on the table. A small fan near the table helps too—bugs hate wind, and your guests will appreciate the breeze.

7. Don’t worry about decorations

Seriously, you don’t need elaborate decorations. A clean yard, some colorful napkins or paper plates, and a few fresh flowers in jars are more than enough. Nobody’s grading your hosting skills; they’re just happy to be included.

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

This is totally optional but always appreciated: send guests home with a small snack, drink, or leftover treat. It doesn’t have to be elaborate—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 comfort. They’re the gatherings where laughter is loud, seconds are plentiful, and people linger long after the sun sets.

So if you’re hosting this summer in Sheboygan County, don’t stress about making everything picture-perfect. Just aim for relaxed, a little messy, and a lot of fun.