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

Summer in Tulsa brings a certain ease to life. Flip-flops become the norm, drinks are served ice-cold, and weekends fill up with one thing: backyard BBQs.

If you’re planning to host one this season, don’t worry about having a sprawling yard, fancy furniture, or top-tier grilling skills. What you really need is good food, a few spots for folks to sit, and an inviting atmosphere that encourages everyone to stick around.

Here are 8 straightforward tips to help you throw a BBQ your friends will remember—without the stress.

1. Set the mood, not a theme

No need to go overboard with decorations. Hang some string lights, create a playlist that matches the vibe (classic rock, country, or anything that feels like summer), and light a few candles or lanterns as the sun sets. That’s all it takes to make your yard feel warm and welcoming.

Bonus: If you enjoy music, invite your guests to add their favorite summer songs to the playlist ahead of time. People appreciate hearing their own song come on.

2. Keep the menu simple

You don’t need to go gourmet. Stick to a few reliable favorites—burgers, hot dogs, grilled veggies, maybe some chicken or ribs. A couple of solid side dishes (pasta salad, watermelon slices, corn on the cob) can make a big difference. Another good idea? Set up DIY food stations where your friends can customize their meals—think taco bar, pasta bar, or even a slider bar. And don’t forget to check if your guests have any food allergies or dietary restrictions.

Pro tip: Choose items you can prep in advance so you’re not juggling multiple tasks once guests arrive.

3. Do the prep before people arrive

If you’re 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.

Chop your veggies, season your meat, and set up a self-serve drink station before the first knock at the door. This way, you can relax and enjoy the company too.

4. You don’t need matching patio furniture

Don’t stress if your outdoor seating doesn’t look like it belongs in 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, make sure there’s at least one shady spot if it’s a hot day. Even if you don’t have any trees, umbrellas or pop-up tents can provide relief 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 cornhole or giant Jenga are always popular. And s’mores over a fire pit? That’s a guaranteed hit.

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

6. Plan ahead for bugs

Nothing ruins a backyard hangout like mosquitos. 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 helps too—bugs hate 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 laughter is loud, second helpings are common, and people linger long after the sun goes down.

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