How to Organize a Neighborhood Memorial Day Barbecue

Fire up the grill

A Memorial Day barbecue is a great way to spend time with neighbors.

Things You'll Need

• Food and drinks
• Invitations or fliers
• Paper goods
• Tables and chairs
• Grills
• Games

Instructions

1. Get support from neighbors and ask them if they'll help you plan.

2. Decide on a place. If you can close off the street and have a block party, great. If not, have the barbecue in a good-sized backyard.

3. Pick a date and time and tell everyone as soon as possible. Decide if you'll have the barbecue on the Saturday, Sunday or Monday of Memorial Day weekend. Distribute fliers or invitations door-to-door.

4. Make a list of what you need for the party. Include food, drinks, condiments and paper goods. Divvy it up among the neighbors.

5. Find out who will bring a grill. You'll need several to keep the cooking going steady. Ask the grill owners if they'll be the grill masters.

6. Plan some activities. Encourage neighbors to bring their sporting goods. Set up a volleyball court if there's room. Find out who has a good sound system so you can have music.

7. Ask neighbors to bring folding tables and chairs to the barbecue location on the morning of the event.

Tips & Warnings

• You should start planning at least one month in advance.

• Pick a rain date or plan to move the festivities indoors.

Resources

• Information on organizing an event
• Memorial Day barbecue invitation ideas