How to plan a quick and easy Memorial Day barbecue
Keep the guest list under control
You don't need to invite your whole block or everyone at your office to host a fun Memorial Day barbeque. Set a limit on the number of your guests and only invite friends and family members who you know will attend. Send out invites via email or Facebook to make it simple and organized.
Grill traditional favorites
Hot dogs and hamburgers are favorites among kids. For adults, you can venture into ribs, chicken and sausage as well. Keep your menu very basic. You don't want to spend so much time prepping and cooking that you can't enjoy the get-together.
Ask everyone to pitch in
You don't have to cook everything yourself. Supply the main course and make the rest of the meal a potluck. Ask your guests to bring disposable plates, cups and utensils, as well as side dishes (appetizers, beans, bread, chips, dips, fruits, salads and veggies), beverages and ice. If you need extra tables and chairs, ask around to your guests for those as well.
Decorate with flags and streamers
Decorations don't have to be elaborate. American flags, plus streamers and balloons in red, white and blue, are just perfect. If you need extra lighting, add tiki torches or candles in hurricane glasses for when the sun goes down.
Keep in organized
For a large party, set up a buffet station for the food and separate tables for beverages, condiments and desserts. Offer both alcoholic and non-alcoholic choices to drink. Lemonade and iced tea are perfect summertime favorites.
Label receptacles
Have plenty of trash and recycling bins. Make sure that they are clearly marked and in various places, indoors and out. Make it easy for your guests to throw things away in order to reduce cleanup for yourself latter.
Set up games
Set up games like badminton, frisbee, horseshoes and other lawn games for the kids (and adults) to enjoy during the party. Be sure to have some canopies and umbrellas so people have a place to relax and get out of the summer sun.
Get kids to help
Give yourself a break and get your kids to pitch in with food prep, set up and clean up. Give them an extra allowance or reward them for helping out by renting movies and video games.
More about Memorial Day
Healthy Memorial Day menu
What to wear for Memorial Day outings
Top 10 Memorial weekend trips
