Hosting BBQs is one of my absolute favourite things to do, but living in a flat made the idea seem impossible. That was until I discovered a community BBQ area in my local park during a walk one day. Each BBQ station comes with a picnic bench and even a designated fire-resistant bin for safe disposal. I had no idea these spaces existed, and it immediately sparked an idea—why not host my BBQs here? Turns out, with a bit of planning, you can host an epic BBQ without a garden! 🎉
🔥 Claim Your Spot Like a Pro
Public BBQ spots can get busy, so I always make sure to arrive early. I aim for a spot near the toilets and play area, which makes it more convenient for families. Setting up early also allows me to add a few personal touches, like a colourful tablecloth or cute decorations, to make the space feel more inviting. 🏕️✨
🍽️ Simple Eats, Big Smiles
A great BBQ isn’t about complexity—it’s about great food with minimal hassle! Here are my BBQ Staples That Always Win:
✅ Burgers & sausages – Quick, easy, and crowd-pleasing 🍔🌭
✅ Pre-cooked chicken legs – Extra flavour, no undercooking stress 🍗
✅ DIY skewers – Let guests pick their own combos for a fun twist 🍢
✅ Simple sides – Potato salad and coleslaw can be prepped in advance 🥗
🥦 Veggie Delights to Wow Everyone
A great BBQ isn’t just about the meat! Here are a few veggie options that are always a hit: • 🥕 Vegetable Skewers – Bell peppers, mushrooms, and cherry tomatoes drizzled with olive oil.
🧀 Grilled Halloumi – A firm favourite that grills beautifully.
🍄 Portobello Mushroom Burgers – A hearty, flavourful alternative.
🌽 Corn on the Cob – A BBQ classic, best served with butter and seasoning.
🫑 Stuffed Peppers – Filled with a mix of rice, beans, and spices.
🌍 BBQs Without the Guilt
At the end of summer, disposable BBQs often go on sale—perfect for stocking up for next year. Even better, there are now eco-friendly BBQs ( https://amzn.to/4kJfTbH) that work just as well but are much kinder to the environment. ♻️ The first time I used one, I was sceptical, but it worked just as well as a traditional disposable BBQ—and I felt better knowing it had a smaller environmental impact! Now, I always keep a few on hand for those spontaneous park BBQs. 🌱
✅ Your Ultimate BBQ Checklist
I’ve learned the hard way that forgetting key BBQ essentials can really throw off the day—like the time I showed up without tongs and had to flip burgers with a plastic fork (not ideal! 😅). Lesson learned—ALWAYS double-check your BBQ checklist! Here’s mine:
🛠️ Utensils – Tongs, spatulas, and serving spoons.
🍽️ Plates & Cutlery – Reusable or biodegradable options.
🧻 Napkins & Wet Wipes – For easy clean-up.
🧊 Cooler – To keep food and drinks fresh.
🗑️ Rubbish Bags – Always clean up after yourself!
🍹 Keep It Chilled and Cheerful
I always encourage guests to bring their favourite drinks, but I also pack a cool box with ice to keep everything chilled. A cool box with wheels makes getting there a lot easier ( https://amzn.to/4imAuB5) A little extra effort goes a long way—Tupperware containers filled with fruit garnishes make for refreshing Pimms on a sunny day! 🍓🍊🌿 My go-to combo is strawberries, oranges, and a handful of fresh mint—it gives the perfect summery touch.
For a non-alcoholic option, try lemonade mixed with frozen berries and a splash of elderflower cordial. 🍋🍒 Non-alcoholic iced teas and lemonade are also always a big hit. 🥤
🏕️ Cosy Corners for Everyone
Encouraging guests to bring blankets, cushions, or portable chairs makes a big difference. I’ve found that picnic blankets with waterproof backing work best, especially if the ground is damp. Inflatable seat cushions or foldable camping chairs also help make longer BBQs more comfortable. I also bring a portable speaker for background music and a few outdoor games to keep everyone entertained. 🎶 A well-set-up space can turn a simple BBQ into an unforgettable gathering. 💛
🚮 Leave No Trace Behind
Being respectful of public spaces is key. I always bring extra bin bags to ensure everything is cleaned up before leaving. And when it’s time to dispose of your BBQ, use the designated fire-resistant bins to keep the park safe and clean for everyone. 🌿♻️
🎯 Game On!
Adding games to the mix keeps things lively. If you have a mix of guests who might not usually join in, pairing up kids and adults or mixing different friend groups can help everyone feel included. Here are a few easy favourites:
🥏 Frisbee – Perfect for a park setting and fun for all ages.
🎯 Ring Toss – Simple but entertaining, and easy to DIY.
🎭 Charades – A classic that’s especially fun with a mix of friends and family.
Hosting a BBQ without a garden is totally doable—and so much fun! With a little creativity and prep, you can make incredible memories while enjoying the great outdoors. 🌞
Have you ever hosted a BBQ without a garden? What’s your go-to grilling tip? Let me know in the comments! 💬👇
Happy BBQing! 🍔🔥🎉
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