Everyone loves a great outdoor summer barbecue in the backyard, but a lot of people hate the intense heat that the summer brings. If you are planning on throwing a barbecue for your guests to enjoy, continue reading for some tips that you can implement in order to make sure that everyone remains as comfortable and as cool as possible throughout the event.
Have Plenty of Shaded Areas Available
It really does not matter how you get shade into your backyard. All that matters is that there are plenty of areas where people can get out from under the hot sun in order to cool off. You can install a retractable awning, for example, that you can extend every time you will have guests over, or you can put up gazebos and canopies that are super easy to assemble and just as easy to take down. Set up some outdoor swings that come with covered tops so that people can sit down and relax while being protected from the harsh rays. Or set up tables with big umbrellas over them so that people can eat without having to feel uncomfortable because the sun is in their eyes and they are sweating from the heat.
Open Up the Pool for Everyone to Enjoy
If you have a pool, take advantage of it. It does not matter whether you have an in-ground pool or an above-ground pool because people just want to dive in and cool off. This is especially great for children because they can continue to enjoy themselves and they will be cool enough to not complain about how much they are sweating. Just be sure to remember to tell your guests that the pool will be open and they are more than welcome to bring their bathing suits if they wish.
Have Fun with Water Fights
No matter how old you are, you could probably have a blast if you let loose and enjoyed a good old-fashioned water gun or water balloon fight with your guests. If this is an impromptu idea, then everyone will have to wait for their clothes to dry off in the sun. But if this is something that you are planning for your guests, then you definitely should warn them and advise them to wear bathing suits and bring an extra set of clothes in case they need to get changed.
Continually Serve Ice-Cold Drinks
From frozen margaritas to ice-cold lemonade, make sure that you have plenty of beverages, ice pops, and more, available to keep everyone, from the kids to the elderly, nice and cool while enjoying the food at your barbecue. Once the weather begins to cool off at night, you can all relax and enjoy some iced coffee and dessert to finish off the event.
Hosting an outdoor barbecue in the summer is a hugely popular idea. It is one of the most anticipated events of the summer, but you still need to make sure your guests can actually enjoy it by coming up with ideas that will keep them cool.