Everything You Need for the Ultimate Bonfire Party
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The second the weather gets to the perfect temperature, you’re probably also planning your first backyard bonfire party. There’s nothing like sitting under the stars with friends and family and laughing around a crackling fire. This season, gather your loved ones and call for a night of yummy s’mores, good drinks, and your favorite people. After all, this season only lasts so long, so you have to make the most of it! So if you want to make your bonfire really special this year, then we have everything you need for an epic evening.
But building the perfect outdoor bonfire party means much more than just a fire pit and good company. That’s why we’re covering everything you may not have thought of for your s’mores-filled soiree, like snacks, outdoor seating, and cozy blankets (an absolute must-have). Soon enough, you and your guests will be celebrating a fun-filled evening around a bonfire, and you can rest easy knowing you thought of everything beforehand. Don’t forget the bug spray!
1. A Fire Pit
Safety first! A fire pit is essential in order to contain the fire. You wouldn’t want your grass (or loved ones) to catch flames. You can build your own pit in or above the ground, buy a manufactured one, or hire a contractor to professionally install one. Whichever option you choose, make sure your pit is placed in an area away from your and your neighbors’ houses.
2. Plenty of Seating
Who wants to stand around the bonfire all night long? Make sure your backyard is ready for your guests by rounding up durable seating options like folding chairs or a patio set. And don’t forget the comfort! Create a cozy party by arranging large blankets and pillows around the bonfire. It’s better to have extra seating than not enough, so be generous when you’re setting up.
3. Perfect Outdoor Lighting
As the night sky darkens, the light from the campfire might not be enough to help you and your party see clearly. Avoid accidental run-ins and dropped platters of food by adding string lights, torch lights, and lanterns around your property. Make sure to keep the best mosquito repellants on-hand, too.
4. A Great Playlist
What’s a fun-filled backyard bonfire party without a good playlist?! Make sure to put one together before guests arrive and set up a waterproof speaker or two outside. That way, you’ll keep the mood high and your guests jamming until the party ends.
5. Fun Backyard Games
To keep your bonfire party lit (that’s what the kids are saying these days, right?), have some backyard-friendly games handy. With enough lighting, you can even play lawn darts or cornhole. For the adult crowd, tell everyone to come prepared with their scariest story or bust out Cards Against Humanity.
6. S’mores and Snacks
No bonfire is complete without the sweet combination of graham crackers, marshmallows, and chocolate; just make sure you have enough ingredients to feed the entire party. Need assistance? Technology has blessed the world with quirky gadgets like the Six S’more Maker and the S’mores Toaster Warmer.
7. Extra Firewood
You don’t want to have to send everyone home early because you ran out of fuel for the fire, so make sure to stock up. Besides, it wouldn’t be a true backyard bonfire without the rustic appeal of a stack of extra firewood nearby.
8. An Assortment of Drinks
Help your guests quench their thirst with a crisp cocktail or two—and make a few batches ahead of time to save your sanity. If it’s a chilly evening, whip up your favorite hot toddy for extra warmth. And have a few non-alcoholic options on hand too, like club soda, flavored water, or a big pitcher of fresh-squeezed lemonade.
9. A Fire Extinguisher
Always have a fire extinguisher handy, just in case, and let your guests know where it is when they arrive. If you have a garden hose or bucket of sand nearby, that works too. Getting ready for the bonfire is also a great time to teach your little ones about fire safety.
10. The Ultimate Crew
Let’s face it, no party is complete without an epic guest list, so gather your family and closest friends to make your bonfire a night to remember!
A version of this article originally appeared on GuruHub.tv.
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