Tips for throwing the best backyard BBQ all summer long

• Memorial Day has become the unofficial start of summer renowned for weekend-long outdoor parties and gatherings from coast to coast
• To throw a fun BBQ: choose a theme, pull it together with spirited decor, create conversation pits, make a playlist, plan a menu that caters to everyone’s needs

Memorial Day is a time to pay honor to the heroes that have served our country.

It’s also become the unofficial start of summer renowned for weekend-long outdoor parties and gatherings from coast to coast.

If you’re going to have friends over, it’s time to start planning! Our roundup of easy ideas for food, beverages, outfits, and decor will turn any backyard, balcony, or indoor space into the ultimate party destination.

Memorial Day is a time to pay honor to the heroes that have served our country –  and only a few weeks away

It’s also become the unofficial start of summer renowned for weekend-long outdoor parties and gatherings from coast to coast

CHOOSE A CLASSIC THEME

The first step to planning a great party is choosing a theme.

Whether a casual backyard bash, a pool party, or an elegant rooftop soirée, your theme sets the tone and lets you plan your decorations, food, and entertainment accordingly.

PULL IT TOGETHER WITH SPIRITED DECOR

Choose an all-American red, white, and blue palette to keep things crisp and classic.

Cover tables with red gingham tablecloths, use bandanas as napkins and mini American flags for centerpieces.

The nod to our nation creates uplifting energy as you and your guests reflect on the immeasurable sacrifices of military personnel.

Plus, you can repurpose the decorations for the Fourth of July.

WEAR SOMETHING FASHIONABLE AND FUNCTIONAL

Breathable fabrics like cotton, denim, and linen will keep you cool all day long.

For a casual BBQ, subtly show off your holiday spirit in denim shorts paired with crisp button down in a blue and white stripe. Bonus points for star accessories.

If attending a more formal patio party, reach for a floaty summer dress in a delicate floral print. Slip into a chic pair of wedge sandals, a crossbody bag for handsfree convenience and trendy sunglasses.

Shop it: Aviator Sunglasses by Ray-Ban, sunglasshut.com. Dolmaz dress by Misa, $395; misalosangeles.com. Shoulder bag by Loro Piana, $2,850; net-a-porter.com. Gallito sandal by Bared, $279; baredfootwear.com. Right: Striped poplin shirt by Zara, $35.90; zara.com. Ripped denim mom short by American Eagle, $39.99; ae.com. Jackie tote by BTB, $198; btblosangeles.com. Suede sneakers by Golden Goose, $595; net-a-porter.com

CREAT CONVERSATION PITS

Before decorating, arrange your outdoor space to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Stage comfortable seating areas where guests can catchup with friends in a casual way.

A buffet table lets partygoers serve themselves, meet new people, and it gives you a chance to mingle, too.

A beverage station is another way to let guests grab a drink whenever they’re thirsty.

For added ambience and delight, string tiny white lights along the grounds for parties that will head into the evening hours.

SERVE DRINKS YOUR GUESTS WILL LOVE

When choosing drinks to serve at a barbecue, consider your guests’ preferences and the food you’ll be serving.

Alcohol-free drinks will keep everyone hydrated and satisfied, while a signature cocktail gives the party a personal touch.

A customized drink like a whisky lemonade or a rum mojito pair well with barbecue and make for a good time.

Stash water bottles in a large cooler, or in strategically placed buckets of ice positioned throughout your outdoor area for easy access and grabbing on the fly.

Be sure to have a variety of grill-ready meats on hand including hamburgers, hotdogs, and seafood. Offer a selection of side dishes like potato and pasta salads, dips and chips, and finger foods like deviled eggs and veggies

PLAN A MENU THAT CATERS TO A VARIETY OF DIETARY NEEDS

The menu plan is the most important part of your BBQ success story.

Make it your primary goal whether you decide to cater the event, host a potluck, or cook everything yourself.

Be sure to have a variety of grill-ready meats on hand including hamburgers, hotdogs, and seafood.

And don’t forget vegetarian options for those who may have dietary restrictions or other preferences.

Offer a selection of side dishes like corn on the cob, coleslaw, potato and pasta salads, dips and chips, charcuterie boards, and finger foods like deviled eggs and veggies.

Beyond savory eats, BBQ friendly desserts like apple pie, ice cream, and a fruit bowl are the perfect sweet ending to a meal.

CREATE A PATRIOTIC PLAYLIST

The playlist is the soul of the party.

If you have the time to craft your own mix, be sure to include classics like ‘Party in the U.S.A.’ by Miley Cyrus, ‘American Woman’ by Lenny Kravitz, and ‘America’ by Neil Diamond, along with new tunes like ‘Texas Hold ’em’ by Beyoncé.

Or, cue-up crowd pleasing playlists from a streaming service like Spotify, YouTube Music, Apple Music, or Pandora.

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