The music is upbeat, retro, and fun. The BBQ pulled pork is tender, juicy, and the right hint of spicy. The sun’s gently warming your shoulders; your friends are laughing, your Irish Setter is chasing a squirrel.

You pull your tortoiseshell sunglasses over your eyes, take a swig of lemonade that’s equally sweet and sour, and a smile spreads across your face. It’s all coming together. You’re hosting the perfect backyard BBQ party.

Wait!

This scene is wonderful—but you’re not there yet. It’s time to make your dreams a reality and get to planning. After all, summer’s right around the corner—June 21, to be exact—and it’s time to party!

We’ll help you out. Here are the ingredients for the best BBQ shindig ever!

A Helping of Food

Y’know how they say slow and steady wins the race? The same goes for your main BBQ dish. Cook it low and slow (like this yummy recipe) for the best results.

You can even opt out of including BBQ sauce right away. Consider doing something like a sauce bar, putting out a variety of sauce options: white BBQ, spicy BBQ, sweet and classic. Let people pick and choose!

Try updated sides, like corn with the husks still attached. Fold back the husks and grill the corn (perhaps adding cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime). Once done, wrap the husks in aluminum foil and use them to hold your corn cob!

A Lot of Drinks

You need lots of ice and drinks to accompany it. Think about everyone attending your party—not only the needs of a select few. 

Don’t skimp on the water! Have plenty of beer, but consider stopping at the local brewery instead of picking up that typical Corona or Miller. Brew your own tea and lemonade, allowing people to drink them separately or mix for an Arnold Palmer.

A Pinch of Supplies

You’ll need places for people to sit and eat, as well as lounging areas for people to relax. It’s also helpful to have space designated for standing, talking, moving, shaking—whatever happens!

Consider giving out a souvenir like a custom Koozie (click here for more help finding the coolest one) or a photobooth with Polaroids and props!

Make sure to have an ample amount of cups, plates, silverware, napkins, and the like. Run the day through your day and make a list of any supplies that stick out at you.

A Sprinkle of Games

And of course, no great party is complete with some games!

Don’t rely on your guests to bring or suggest their own. Instead, have some games already out and ready to play: volleyball, Cards Against Humanity, frisbee. Any little thing will go a long way with a fun group!

A Recipe for the Best Backyard BBQ Party—Ever

First, preparation. Next, execution. And last, relaxation.

That’s right—don’t forget to enjoy your party! After all, you’ve worked hard on it. Have a beer or two (or three), kick some ball, dance a little dance. You put together an unforgettable backyard BBQ party—go you!

One last thing. Before you host guests, it’s best to get your place looking clean and organized! You don’t want someone going into the bathroom only to find your dirty laundry over the floor or toothpaste in the sink.

Click here to learn how to purge your home of unnecessary junk and clutter!