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

Summer in Nashville brings a certain ease to life. Flip-flops are the footwear of choice, drinks are served ice-cold, and weekends are often filled with backyard BBQs. If you’re planning to host one this season, you don’t need a sprawling yard, high-end furniture, or culinary expertise. What you really need is delicious food, a few comfortable spots to sit, and an inviting atmosphere that keeps your friends hanging around.

Here are 8 straightforward tips to help you throw a BBQ your friends will remember—without adding unnecessary stress to your day.

1. Set the mood, not a theme

No need to go overboard with decorations. String lights can add a nice touch, and a playlist featuring classic rock, country, or anything that screams summer will set the right vibe. Once the sun sets, light a few candles or lanterns to keep the atmosphere warm and inviting.

Bonus tip: If you enjoy curating playlists, invite your guests to contribute their favorite summer tunes ahead of time. There’s something special about hearing “their” song play during the gathering.

2. Keep the menu simple

No need to turn into a gourmet chef. Stick with 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, can really round out the meal. Consider setting up DIY food stations where guests can customize their meals—think taco bar, pasta bar, or even a slider bar. And don’t forget to check if anyone has food allergies or dietary restrictions.

Pro tip: Choose items you can prep in advance so you’re not scrambling 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 your guests arrive. This way, you can join in on the fun too.

4. You don’t need matching patio furniture

Don’t stress if your outdoor seating isn’t straight out of a design magazine. Mix and match chairs, lay down some picnic blankets, or even bring out indoor stools or benches if needed. What matters is that everyone has a place to sit and enjoy their food and conversation.

Also, make sure there’s at least one shady spot if it’s a hot day. If your yard lacks trees, consider using umbrellas or pop-up tents to create a cooler environment.

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

If families are coming, have a few simple games ready—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 popular. And s’mores over a fire pit? That’s a guaranteed hit.

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

6. Plan ahead for bugs

Nothing can ruin a backyard gathering like pesky mosquitoes. Light a few citronella candles, provide bug spray, and keep food covered when it’s out on the table. A small fan near the dining area can also help—bugs dislike wind, and your guests will appreciate the cool 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 judging your hosting skills; they’re just happy to be invited.

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

This is totally optional, but it’s always a nice gesture: send your guests home with a small snack, drink, or leftover treat. It doesn’t have to be extravagant—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 where everyone can relax. It’s about laughter, second helpings, and lingering conversations long after the sun sets.

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