Attending a barbecue can be a fun way to spend time with friends and family. However, it’s important to know what to bring as a guest so you don’t show up empty-handed. Here are some tips on what to bring to a BBQ when you’re invited.
Food and Drinks
One of the best things you can bring to a BBQ is additional food and drinks to share. This takes some of the burden off the host and allows you to contribute. Here are some food ideas to consider bringing:
Side Dishes
Side dishes like salads, veggies, and fruits are great to bring. Some tasty options include:
- Pasta salad – With veggies, cheese, and a vinaigrette dressing.
- Potato salad – Classic with mayo, eggs, onions, and celery.
- Coleslaw – Shredded cabbage and carrots in a creamy dressing.
- Baked beans – Sweetened with molasses and bacon.
- Corn on the cob – Grilled with butter and seasoning.
- Watermelon slices – Refreshing on a hot day.
Appetizers
Chips, dips, and other finger foods make great appetizers:
- Chips and guacamole
- Salsa and tortilla chips
- Hummus and pita bread
- Cheese and crackers
- Veggie tray with ranch dip
Desserts
Sweet treats are always welcome. Consider making:
- Cookies – Chocolate chip, oatmeal raisin, etc.
- Brownies – Fudgy and chocolatey.
- Fruit salad – With berries, melon, citrus, etc.
- Cupcakes or cake pops
- Pies – Apple, cherry, pecan, etc.
Drinks
Beverages are essential on a hot day:
- Sodas – Regular and diet varieties.
- Lemonade or iced tea – Make pitchers to share.
- Bottled water – To stay hydrated.
- Beer or wine – Check with the host first.
- Juice boxes – For kids.
Utensils and Condiments
Offering to bring plates, cutlery, napkins, and condiments can be a big help to your host. Consider bringing:
- Paper plates – Sturdy ones that won’t leak.
- Plastic utensils – Forks, knives, and spoons.
- Napkins – Both paper and cloth.
- Cups – Plastic or paper.
- Aluminum foil – For grilling.
- Condiments – Ketchup, mustard, mayo, etc.
- Salt and pepper – For seasoning food.
- Butter – For corn, rolls, etc.
- Sugar – For beverages.
Other Helpful Items
Some other handy things to bring along include:
- Cooler with ice – To keep drinks and salads cold.
- Ice packs – Extra to replenish the cooler.
- Water jug – For easy refills.
- Trash bags – Offer to help clean up after.
- Sunscreen and bug spray – To protect from the elements.
- Portable speaker – For background music.
- Lawn chairs – Extra seating for guests.
- Paper towels and cleaning supplies – For spills and messes.
- Games or activities – Toss games, bubbles for kids, etc.
Host Gift
It’s always thoughtful to bring a small gift or thank you item for the BBQ host. Consider bringing:
- Bottle of wine
- Flowfers
- Candles
- Gift basket
- Bottle of liquor or craft beer
- Dessert from a local bakery
Ask What to Bring
The best approach is to communicate with the host ahead of time. Find out what they need you to bring or if they need you to pitch in for the main dishes. Offer to fill in the gaps to complete the menu. This avoids doubling up on items or leaving the host short-handed.
Bringing a thoughtful contribution is the polite thing to do when invited to a BBQ. With some coordinating, you can enjoy the food and fun without overburdening the host. Show up prepared, help where needed, and your company will be appreciated.
Frequently Asked Questions About What to Bring to a BBQ
Should I bring food to a BBQ I’m invited to?
Yes, it’s polite to offer to contribute food or drinks when invited to a BBQ. Check with the host to see what they recommend bringing to fill out the menu.
What kind of drinks work best for a BBQ?
Beverages like sodas, lemonade, iced tea, and water are good choices. Offering to bring beer or wine is also appreciated, if allowed by the host.
What are some easy BBQ side dishes to make?
Simple salads like pasta, potato, or coleslaw are perfect BBQ sides. Baked beans, corn on the cob, and watermelon slices also pair well with typical BBQ fare.
Should I offer to help set up or clean up at a BBQ?
Definitely offer to help the host with any setup, serving, or cleaning tasks. It’s polite to arrive early to assist or stay late to help pack up.
What’s a good host gift to bring to a BBQ?
Consider bringing the host a bottle of wine, small bouquet of flowers, dessert from a bakery, or a pre-made gift basket. This shows your gratitude for being invited.
How early should I arrive at a BBQ?
Arrive within about 15 minutes of the start time, unless you’ve offered to help set up earlier. This gives the host time to finish preparations without guests underfoot.
Can I bring my kids to a BBQ?
Check with the host first if kids are allowed. Offer to bring activities to keep them occupied and supervise them closely.
Conclusion
When attending a BBQ, be a gracious guest by communicating with your host and offering to contribute food, drinks, supplies, or help. Bringing a dish to share, a host gift, and your smile will ensure you’re invited back again and again. With some coordination and preparation, you can relax and enjoy the fun and flavors of a great BBQ.