A Father’s Day barbecue is a fun and special way to celebrate dad’s day. You can have a barbecue with only the dads, a men’s event, or have a family event with the children and spouses included as well. The atmosphere will be different between the two. The guest size would also differ, so keep those in mind. If an adult only event is more of what you’re thinking, a smaller, more subtle and classic barbecue would work. This will provide more opportunity for adult friendly games and food. A child friendly event will be more lively and activity options would need to be suitable for children.
Let’s move on to planning your event.
Setting
Backyard
The backyard setting is the most intimate and relaxed option for a Father’s Day Barbecue. Since this is a home, there is the option of guests going inside for some time away from the heat to relax.
To have any type of gathering at your home, make sure that your space is accommodating to guests and they have what they need. The space should be inviting, clean and well stocked with goods for bathrooms.
Make sure you have adequate seating and eating space. You may need to rent extra tables and chairs.
Park
Park options are great for larger space or if you simply don’t want people in your home. Some parks also have other activities like a lake, a playground, or a campsite.
Check out local city parks or state parks. Certain parks like state or national parks may require advanced reservations and a fee. When using a park, seating is available; however, depending on the size of your crowd, you may need to take additional seating. You would also need to take extra items
Food for the Barbecue
The Grill
Grilled Meats
Hot dogs and burgers are simple and classic options. These work well for feeding a large crowd as they can be relatively inexpensive. Add variety with the types of meat for each hot dog and burger. Make turkey, beef, or lamb burgers. Choose beef or turkey franks, or have sausage hotdogs.
Other meats for the Father’s Day barbecue can include chicken, steak, ribs, or fish. Chicken and ribs work well for a true barbecue feel. Add your favorite barbecue sauce to them. Steak can be reserved for only the dads as this is more expensive for a large crowd.
Produce on the Grill
Corn on the cob works well for a summer barbecue. Large mushrooms are great vegetarian options to include. If you’re feeling a little adventurous, try grilled watermelon.
Side Dishes
Depending on your guest list, a potluck might be the simplest option. Create a list of desired sides for everyone to sign up to take. If you don’t want to do a complete potluck, choose 3-4 close friends to split the sides with. All of you can make your specialty dish. This would work well for a larger crowd and if you don’t want to burden everyone with taking a dish.
Classic sides options are green salad, fruit salad, pasta salad, potato salad, and baked beans. Also add whichever dish is your go-to barbecue favorite.
Desserts
Something fun to add would be smores. This can act as an activity and dessert option. Add your favorite cakes, pies, or specialty dessert. Remember to include ice cream or popsicles.
Drinks
Water is the most important drink. Hydration is key for an outdoor barbecue in the summer. Add a summer classic like lemonade. Create different flavors of lemonade for variety. Include your favorite canned or bottled drinks as well.
Serving Items
If doing a potluck, everyone will have their own dish for their food; however, it is still a good idea to have extra serving dishes just in case. For simplicity, this can be disposable serving trays or pans.
Cups, plates, bowls, and cutlery are essential. This can be added to the potluck list or you as the host can provide them. With this, also include large serving utensils. Depending on your location and type of table you are using, you might need disposable table cloths as well.
Father’s Day Barbecue Decorations
Decorations for a barbecue ads. Create center pieces of frames with a list of each dad’s favorite things. For items related to specific themes: favorite sports team items, chess pieces, art displays, etc.
Activities
Your activities will depend on the size of your space, the number or guests you have, and the age range of the guests. If you have fathers with young children in attendance, the activities may be different and having fathers with adult children.
- Water Balloon Toss
- Trivia
- Slip and Slide
- Taboo
- Frisbee
- Touch Football
- Yard Games: cornhole, giant jenga, giant tic tac toe
- Board Games
- Card Games
- Soccer
- Minute to Win It Games
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