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

Summer in Upstate South Carolina brings a sense of ease. Flip-flops are the norm, drinks are served ice-cold, and weekends are often filled with one thing: backyard BBQs by the lake.

If you’re planning to host a BBQ this season, rest assured you don’t need a sprawling yard, high-end furniture, or culinary expertise. What you really need is good food, a few comfortable spots to sit, and an atmosphere that encourages your guests to stay awhile.

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

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 or country tunes will fit right in with the summer vibe. As the sun sets, light some candles or lanterns to create a warm atmosphere.

Bonus tip: If you’re into music, invite your guests to contribute their favorite summer songs to the playlist. Everyone enjoys hearing a familiar tune.

2. Keep the menu simple

No need for gourmet dishes. 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 elevate the meal. Consider setting up DIY food stations where guests can customize their meals—think taco bar or slider station. And don’t forget to check for any food allergies or dietary restrictions.

Pro tip: Choose items you can prep in advance to avoid juggling too many tasks when guests arrive.

3. Do the prep before people arrive

If you find yourself running back to the kitchen or flipping burgers while everyone else is enjoying the party, 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 guest arrives. This way, you can relax and enjoy the gathering too.

4. You don’t need matching patio furniture

Don’t stress if your outdoor seating doesn’t look like a showroom display. Mix and match chairs, lay out some picnic blankets, or even bring out indoor stools if necessary. All your guests need is a comfortable spot to sit and chat while they eat.

Also, make sure there’s at least one shady area if it’s a hot day. If you don’t have natural shade, consider using umbrellas or pop-up tents to keep things cool.

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

If families are joining, set out a few easy games—like cornhole, frisbee, or even a sprinkler for the kids to run through. For the adults, lawn games like bocce or giant Jenga can be a hit. And who can resist s’mores over a fire pit?

You don’t need a strict agenda, but having activities keeps the energy lively and gives everyone a reason to linger a bit longer.

6. Plan ahead for bugs

Nothing spoils a backyard gathering like mosquitoes. Light some citronella candles, have bug spray available, and keep food covered when it’s 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

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 sufficient. Nobody’s grading 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 always appreciated: send 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 nice 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 fills the air, people go back for seconds, and conversations continue 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.