Backyard BBQ Season Is Here: 8 Easy Tips for Hosting the Ultimate Summer Party in Fort St. John

Summer in Fort St. John brings a sense of ease and relaxation. Flip-flops make their seasonal debut, drinks are served ice-cold, and weekends fill up with one thing: backyard BBQs.

If you’re planning to host one this season, remember that you don’t need a sprawling yard, designer furniture, or top-tier grilling skills. What you really need is good food, a few comfortable spots to sit, and an atmosphere that encourages your guests to stick around.

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

1. Set the mood, not a theme

There’s no need to go overboard with decorations. String lights can add a nice touch, and a playlist featuring classic rock, country, or anything with a summer vibe will set the tone. Once the sun sets, light a few candles or lanterns to create a warm atmosphere.

Bonus tip: If you enjoy music, invite your guests to contribute their favorite summer songs beforehand. It’s always fun when “their” song comes on during the party.

2. Keep the menu simple

Gourmet cooking isn’t necessary. 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 really enhance the meal. Another great idea is to set up DIY food stations where guests can customize their meals—think taco bar, pasta bar, or even a slider bar. Just be sure to check if anyone has food allergies or dietary restrictions.

Pro tip: Choose items you can prep in advance so you’re not juggling multiple tasks when guests arrive.

3. Do the prep before people arrive

If you find yourself constantly running back into the kitchen or flipping burgers while everyone else is enjoying themselves, you’re not really hosting—you’re just working.

Chop your veggies, season your meat, and set up a self-serve drink station before the first knock at the door. This way, you can join in on the fun too.

4. You don’t need matching patio furniture

Don’t worry if your outdoor seating doesn’t resemble something from a home décor magazine. Mix and match chairs, lay down a few picnic blankets, or even bring out indoor stools or benches if needed. What matters is that people have a place to sit and enjoy their food while chatting.

Also, consider providing at least one shady spot if it’s a hot day. If you don’t have any trees for shade, umbrellas or pop-up tents can make a significant difference in keeping things cool.

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

If families are attending, set out a few easy games—think volleyball, sidewalk chalk, or 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 guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

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

6. Plan ahead for bugs

Nothing can spoil a backyard gathering like mosquitoes. Light a few citronella candles, have bug spray on hand, and keep food covered when it’s out on the table. A small fan near the dining area can help too—bugs dislike wind, and your guests will appreciate the breeze.

7. Don’t worry about decorations

Honestly, you don’t need them. A clean yard, some colorful napkins or paper plates, and a few fresh flowers in jars are more than sufficient. Nobody’s grading your hosting skills; they’re just glad to be invited.

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

This is entirely 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 thoughtful 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 is loud, second helpings are common, and people stick around long after the sun has set.

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