Backyard BBQ Season Is Here: 8 Easy Tips for Hosting the Ultimate Summer Party in Cass County

Summer in Cass County brings a certain ease to life. Flip-flops come out, drinks get colder, and weekends start filling up with one thing: backyard BBQs. Whether you're in Fargo or Moorhead, the warm weather is the perfect excuse to gather friends and family for some good food and great company.

If you’re planning to host a BBQ this season, you don’t need a sprawling yard, fancy furniture, or chef-level grilling skills. All you really need is good food, a few places to sit, and an inviting atmosphere that makes people want to stay a while.

Here are 8 easy tips to help you throw a BBQ your friends will remember—without stressing yourself out in the process.

1. Set the mood, not a theme

No need to go overboard with decorations. String lights can add a nice touch, and a playlist that fits the vibe—think classic rock or country tunes—will help create an enjoyable atmosphere. As the sun sets, lighting a few candles or lanterns can make your yard feel warm and welcoming.

Bonus tip: If you enjoy music, invite your guests to contribute their favorite summer songs ahead of time. It’s always fun when someone hears “their” song play.

2. Keep the menu simple

There’s no need to go gourmet. Stick to a few reliable favorites—burgers, hot dogs, grilled veggies, and maybe some chicken or ribs. A couple of solid side dishes, like pasta salad or corn on the cob, will round out the meal nicely. Consider setting up DIY food stations where guests can customize their meals—think taco bar or slider bar. And don’t forget to check for any food allergies or dietary restrictions among your guests.

Pro tip: Choose items you can prep ahead of time so you’re not juggling too many tasks when guests arrive.

3. Do the prep before people arrive

If you find yourself constantly running back into the kitchen or stuck flipping burgers while everyone else is enjoying themselves, you’re not really hosting—you’re just working. Get your veggies chopped, meat seasoned, and a self-serve drink station set up before the first knock at the door. This way, you can relax and socialize too.

4. You don’t need matching patio furniture

Don’t worry if your outdoor seating doesn’t look like something out of a magazine. Mix and match chairs, throw down a few picnic blankets, or even bring out indoor stools or benches if needed. Guests just need a place to sit and enjoy their food while chatting.

Also, consider providing at least one shady spot if it’s a hot day. If you don’t have any shady trees, umbrellas or pop-up tents can make a big difference and keep things cool.

5. Think about what the kids (and grown-ups) will do

If families are coming, set out a few easy games—think volleyball, sidewalk chalk, or a sprinkler for the kids to run through. For the adults, lawn games like bocce or giant Jenga can be a hit. And s’mores over a fire pit? Always a crowd-pleaser.

You don’t need a strict agenda, but having activities keeps the energy up and gives people a reason to linger a little longer.

6. Plan ahead for bugs

Nothing ruins a backyard hangout like mosquitoes. Light a few citronella candles, set out bug spray, and keep food covered when it’s out on the table. A small fan near the table can help too—bugs dislike wind, and your guests will appreciate the breeze.

7. Don’t worry about decorations

Seriously, you don’t need them. A clean yard, some colorful napkins or paper plates, and a few fresh flowers in jars are more than enough. Nobody’s grading your hosting skills. They’re just happy to be invited.

8. Send people off with a little something (if you want to)

This is totally optional, but always appreciated: send guests home with a small snack, drink, or leftover treat. It doesn’t have to be elaborate—just a slice of pie wrapped in foil or a to-go cup of lemonade is a nice way to say thanks for coming.

Bottom line? Keep it easy.

The best backyard BBQs aren’t the ones where everything’s perfect—they’re the ones where everyone feels comfortable. Where people laugh too loud, go back for seconds, and linger long after the sun goes down.

So if you’re hosting this summer in Cass County, don’t stress about making it picture-perfect. Just aim for relaxed, a little messy, and a lot of fun.