How to Host a Backyard Birthday Party

Throw a backyard bash during the summer.

With great weather can come great backyard parties. Dust of the grill and the deck, drag out the lawn chairs and get ready to relax outside. A backyard party has a few more considerations than an indoor affair, such as bug control and food safety, but the fresh air is well worth the extra effort.

Instructions

1. Send outdoor-themed invitations to your guests. In addition to information about the time, date and place, specify whether it is a potluck and what kinds of foods will be needed.

2. Make sure to be ready for rain. Have outdoor tents ready to be put up at a moment's notice, or make sure there is room for everyone to migrate inside, if possible. If this isn't your style, set a rain date for your party.

3. Have sunscreen and bug spray ready for your backyard party guests.

4. Set up a barbecue grill. Grill hot dogs, hamburgers, chicken and more. Don't forget veggie burgers and grilled vegetables for your vegetarian guests.

5. Handle food safely. Keep cold foods such as potato salad at 40 degrees Fahrenheit or lower, and keep hot foods such as grilled meat or baked beans at 140F. Foods of any type should be out for no longer than two hours. Rinse fruits and vegetables, and make sure that raw meats stay away from cooked meats.

6. Decorate the backyard with tiki torches and Hawaiian decorations for a fun, outdoor theme. Purchase leis to give to guests as they arrive. Set out colorful lawn chairs and towels for guests to lounge on.

7. Purchase and set up a kiddie pool or sprinklers for your younger (or young-at-heart) guests.

8. Make fun, summer drinks, such as fruit punch with frozen fruit. Alcohol is optional.

9. Set up an MP3 player or radio so you can play fun, upbeat music throughout the party.

References

• FDA.gov: Eating Outdoors, Handling Food Safely