How to Plan a Labor Day BBQ

A great Labor Day BBQ is about much more than just food. The spirit of the party, the guest, the decorations and the entertainment are all important to make a Labor Day BBQ an experience to remember. No matter how extravagant of a party you're planning on throwing, if you organize yourself, you'll increase your chances of having a successful day.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Food
• Games
• Invitations

Organize A Successful Labor Day BBQ

1. Send out invitations well in advance. Labor Day is a popular holiday and many people will be making plans for the weekend a few weeks before the actual date. Ask guests to RSVP for the party so you know how much food you need to prepare.

2. Organize the menu, taking into consideration special diets, food allergies and extra food for just in case. Alternatively, you can ask your guests to bring a special diet dish so everybody has the chance to munch on something.

3. Decide whether you want to host an all-day BBQ or a quick lunch party. Take into consideration work hours, the ages of your guests (kids or adults) and other plans the guests may have for the weekend.

4. Put out games for guests who want to take a break or for those who are bringing kids along. This can be as easy as setting up a patio table with board games, or as elaborated as setting up some lawn games.

5. Put out a table to use as a buffet center, provide snacks and finger foods and set out drinks on a large cooler so guests can serve themselves. This gives you more time to mingle and visit with your guests.

Tips & Warnings

• Choose a grill you're a familiar with. A busy Labor Day BBQ is not the right time to start experimenting with new ideas. If you bought a new grill, try it out beforehand or invite a couple of friends over a little earlier than usual and make trying the grill part of the day's fun.

• Be prepared for severe weather. Think of alternatives for rain, such as moving the party indoors. If that's not an option, grilling your food in the kitchen or making a quick run to a local BBQ restaurant.

• While decorations are not essential to a successful Labor Day party, they may help people get into the mood. If you're having a late-evening party, think lights and candles. During the day, concentrate on balloons and other colorful extras.