Introduction
Summer is prime barbecue season, which means backyard gatherings and parties are in full swing. If you’ve been invited to a barbecue as a guest, you may be wondering what to bring along. Having the right items with you will ensure you contribute to the party and properly etiquette yourself as a guest.
Here is a comprehensive guide on what to bring to a BBQ party as a guest to guarantee you come prepared.
Food Contributions
One of the most important things to keep in mind when attending a BBQ is to never arrive empty-handed. Offering to bring a dish or drinks shows appreciation for the host’s invitation. Some food items to consider bringing include:
Side Dishes
Side dishes are a BBQ staple and a great option to prepare and bring. Some crowd-pleasing recipes to consider are:
- Pasta or potato salad – Make an easy cold salad with veggies, pasta or potatoes.
- Baked beans – Sweet, saucy and smokey baked beans are a classic BBQ side.
- Coleslaw – Crunchy coleslaw with a homemade dressing is sure to be a hit.
- Macaroni and cheese – A creamy, cheesy pasta bake is delicious and comforting.
- Vegetable trays – Fresh, crisp veggies are a healthy and refreshing option.
Desserts
Satisfy those sweet tooths by baking and bringing a delicious dessert such as:
- Fruit pie – Apple, peach, or berry pies are simple to make ahead.
- Brownies or blondies – Chewy, fudgy brownies and blondies are always crowd-pleasers.
- Cookies – Bake up chocolate chip, peanut butter, or classic sugar cookies.
- Fruit salad – Dice up a mix of fresh, seasonal fruit for a light dessert.
Drinks
Offering to bring drinks along is also quite helpful for the host. Consider packing:
- Sodas or lemonade – Liter bottles of sodas, juice or homemade lemonade.
- Bottled water – Keep everyone hydrated with plenty of bottled water.
- Beer or wine – Check with the host if bringing alcohol is appropriate. Offer to bring beer, wine or champagne that pairs well with BBQ.
- Ice – Extra bags of ice are always useful for cooling drinks in bins, buckets or coolers.
Condiments and Extras
If you want to go the extra mile, consider bringing:
- BBQ sauce – Bring an extra bottle of favorite sauce or two for grilling.
- Cornbread mix – Prepare cornbread or muffins to accompany the meal.
- Chips and dip – Extra bags of tortilla chips, potato chips or a hearty dip.
- Veggie or fruit tray – Make a platter of raw, fresh vegetables or sliced fruit.
- Napkins, cups, utensils – Ask the host if they need any extra supplies like cups, plates, napkins or plastic utensils.
Items to Keep You Comfortable
In addition to food and drinks, you’ll want to bring a few items to keep yourself comfortable at an outdoor BBQ:
Weather Supplies
Be sure to check the weather and prepare accordingly:
- Sunscreen and hat – Prevent sunburn on hot, sunny days.
- Umbrella or rain jacket – Dress for unexpected summer showers.
- Sweater or light jacket – Bring layers in case evenings get cooler.
Seating
Offer to bring a folding chair or camp chairs to ensure comfortable seating.
Games
Bring a recreational game along to engage other guests at the party, like:
- Cornhole set
- Frisbee
- Giant yard Jenga
- Ladder toss
Gift Ideas for the Host
It’s thoughtful to bring a small gift for the BBQ hosts such as:
- Bottle of wine
- Craft beer
- Fresh flowers
- Candle
- Small decorative plant or succulent
- Bottle of BBQ sauce, grill spices or seasonings
Or you may choose to simply write a thank you card expressing your gratitude for being invited.
What Not to Bring
Avoid bringing:
- Anything the host has not requested or already mentioned providing
- Unexpected plus-ones without asking first
Show courtesy by not arriving excessively early or late unless otherwise arranged. Follow any specific instructions the host provides ahead of time as well.
Displaying Etiquette as a Guest
Practicing proper BBQ etiquette shows respect for the hosts and fellow guests. Be sure to:
- RSVP in a timely manner if asked
- Introduce yourself to new guests
- Avoid taking over grilling duties or rearranging the space without asking
- Offer to help the host with preparing, serving or cleaning up
- Provide positive feedback and thanks to the host before leaving
Following etiquette for guests will ensure you leave a good impression and represent yourself well at any barbecue you attend.
Conclusion
Attending a summer BBQ party as a guest means coming prepared with food to share, comfort items and a gift for the host. Side dishes, desserts, drinks, weather gear, games and a thoughtful present are all ideal to bring along. With delicious food contributions, recreation, and excellent etiquette, you will be a gracious and enjoyable barbecue guest.