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

Summer in Knoxville brings a certain ease to life. The flip-flops come out, 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-notch grilling skills. What you really need is good food, a few places for people to sit, and a relaxed atmosphere that keeps everyone around.

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

You don’t need to go overboard on decorations. String lights can create a cozy atmosphere, and a playlist featuring classic rock or country tunes will fit right in with the Knoxville vibe. As the sun sets, light a few candles or lanterns to keep the ambiance warm and inviting.

Bonus tip: If you’re into playlists, invite your guests to add their favorite summer songs ahead of time. Everyone enjoys hearing a song that resonates with them.

2. Keep the menu simple

No need to go gourmet here. Stick to a few crowd-pleasers—burgers, hot dogs, grilled veggies, maybe some chicken or ribs. Pair those with one or two solid side dishes like pasta salad, fresh watermelon, or corn on the cob. You might also consider setting up DIY food stations where friends can customize their meals—think taco bar, pasta bar, or even a slider bar. Just remember 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 a dozen 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 the party, 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 gathering 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 chat while they eat.

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 in keeping 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 a hit. And s’mores over a fire pit? That’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

You don’t have to plan an 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 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, people go back for seconds, and guests linger long after the sun has set.

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