Top 10 Tips for hosting a great Platinum Jubilee BBQ Party!

When planning a BBQ party for a large event there can be lots of stress involved. You don’t want to build up your guests excitement to then greet them with a few charred sausages and warm lemonade, so we’ve come up with 10 top tips for hosting a great Platinum Jubilee BBQ party.

BBQ Party ideas

1) Have a concept that is fluent, coherent and fun. Something as simple as a colour scheme or theme can do the trick and instantly make guests feel like they are at an event rather than a casual lunch. This is made easy for the Platinum Jubilee!

2) Consider seating arrangements. You don’t want guests to be too far away from one another, but you also don’t want to squash them in too closely. Consider the outdoors furniture you currently have or can obtain, as well as how you might arrange it so that people may rest and eat comfortably.

3) Prepare for British weather! We all know how unpredictable it can be, so create an area of shelter outside using a marquee or even a couple of tents! Fill them with pillows and cushions to give it a comfy atmosphere and they can also double up as a place for kids to play.

4) Consider the numbers. Create a guestlist and invite people a few weeks before the event so you can accommodate the attendees. The easiest way to keep track of this is by making a Facebook event, but you can always send out paper invites, texts or emails if you prefer.

5) Food for thought. Firstly, make sure you know about any dietary requirements from your guests, and then use the number of attendees to plan your menu. It’s preferable to stick to easy recipes that you can complete before guests arrive at large events, and don’t forget to provide some alternatives for any children who will be attending, side dishes that may be eaten early in the day, and of course, desserts.

6) Shopping! Once you know your menu and the number of attendees you can go shopping. Preparing a list is vital and don’t forget any equipment or utensils that you’re lacking too.  

7) Plan a playlist. Nobody likes music playing on a loop for 30 minutes, therefore make a 5-hour+ playlist on your devices (around 100 songs) and delegate someone to make sure it stays running. Also, if your barbecue party is themed, try not to make the music too cliché! Alternatively, if you like a little live music, why not ask some local bands to play?

8) Don’t forget the drinks. Unless you’re inviting people to bring their own beverage, make sure your refrigerator has a wide selection for guests and that there’s space in your fridge! Coolboxes can also keep bottles cool in the garden. Ensure there is enough choice of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages for all, and a good tip is to keep bottles of squash handy in case soft drinks for kids run out. You may even want to knock up a great British summer punch if you have time!

9) Never hesitate to seek assistance. Barbecues are a great chance for kids to help out, and many people would be willing to bring some sides, desserts, or beverages; don’t be scared to ask for what you need, and delegate jobs where you can – even if it’s just decorating the garden or laying the table.

10) Last but not least, socialise! You may not be aware of it, but your visitors are there to see you, not just sample your culinary masterpieces! So don’t spend all night running around clearing up or serving food – just have fun, don’t stress and be present! 

BBQ Party food list

So, you’ve got the theme all sorted and with our tips above your BBQ party is set to be the best yet. But what about the BBQ party food list? Don’t forget the items on our handy checklist below:

• Burgers and buns
• Sausages and buns
• Marinades and dipping sauces
• Chicken 
• Fish
• Cheese slices
• Veggies – especially corn on the cob
• Salad, crisps and dips (got to have something to nibble while the bbq hots up!)
• Fruit sliced up for dessert
• Plenty of drinks – wine, beer and soft drinks
• Paper napkins (make sure they’re red, white and blue)

You should now have all the confidence and inspiration you need to host your big BBQ party, don’t forget to share your pictures with us on Twitter @greatbritbbq.