There is nothing better than a sunny afternoon, good food on the grill, and a backyard (or park) full of friends and family. Spring and summer are the perfect seasons to slow down, gather outside, and enjoy everything that makes this time of year great. Hosting a BBQ is one of the easiest ways to bring everyone together.
That said, even the most casual BBQ needs a little bit of planning to keep things running smoothly. Here is your ultimate checklist for pulling off a spring or summer BBQ that feels effortless, festive, and fun.
1. Pick the Perfect Spot
Your backyard is a natural choice, but Boston also has some incredible parks and public spaces if you want to take the party on the road.
Wherever you host, make sure you have:
- Plenty of space for seating and mingling
- Shade or shelter options (Boston sun can turn into a summer storm fast)
- Access to bathrooms or portable restrooms
If you need help finding a park with the right amenities or want backup options in case of bad weather, Simplified can help scout and coordinate the best locations, so you don’t have to stress.
2. Lock In the Guest List
BBQs are naturally casual, but having a rough guest count helps with food planning, seating, drinks, even plates and napkins. Decide early if you want a laid-back “bring a dish” vibe or if you are handling all the food yourself.
(Pro tip: A little coordination goes a long way in making sure you don’t end up with six bowls of pasta salad and no burgers.)
Simplified can help manage RSVPs or assist with setting up group invites if you want to keep things even easier.
3. Plan a Crowd-Pleasing Menu
You don’t need a five-course meal — just good, easy food that suits the setting.
A classic BBQ menu usually includes:
- Burgers, hot dogs, veggie options
- Simple sides (pasta salad, potato salad, corn on the cob)
- Fresh fruit trays
- Chips, dips, and snacks
- Lemonade, iced tea, and maybe a cooler stocked for the adults
- Brownies, cookies, and maybe fun ice pops for the kids
Need catering help or local recommendations? Simplified can help coordinate deliveries or even pick up pre-ordered trays if you want to skip the kitchen chaos.
4. Set Up a Simple, Festive Space
A few easy touches make a big difference:
- String lights or lanterns if your BBQ runs into the evening
- Big coolers with drinks easily accessible
- Blankets, lawn chairs, or picnic tables
- Trash and recycling stations to keep cleanup easy
And if you want to kick it up a notch, you can add fun decor like gingham tablecloths, fresh flower centerpieces, or a DIY lemonade stand for kids. Simplified can handle the setup, decor sourcing, and even day-of logistics so you can focus on the grill (or just your guests).
5. Plan for Fun
Good conversation is always the main event, but it helps to have a few casual activities ready too:
- Yard games like cornhole, giant Jenga, or frisbee
- A playlist ready to go (and a speaker that is charged)
- Water balloons or bubbles for the kids
Nothing needs to be overly structured. All you really need are a few options to keep everyone smiling between burgers and lemonade refills.
6. Have a Backup Plan (Just in Case)
Boston weather can be unpredictable, even on a sunny June afternoon.
It is a good idea to:
- Have a pop-up tent or two handy
- Clear a space indoors if you need a quick move inside
- Keep an eye on the forecast the day before
Simplified can also help you create a backup plan and pivot if needed, making sure your BBQ stays stress-free no matter what Mother Nature throws your way.
Make Your Spring/Summer BBQ Simple with Simplified Events
Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, a birthday cookout, or a casual family gathering, a little help behind the scenes can make a big difference. Simplified offers flexible, hourly support to take care of exactly what you need, from sourcing decor and managing food pickups to setting up the space and making sure the day runs smoothly.
It is like having a personal assistant for your event, so you can actually relax, eat, and enjoy the sunshine too.
Ready to make your next spring or summer BBQ the easiest one yet? Contact Simplified today to get started.