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Metro Creative Connection

Summer barbecue season is in full swing.

Now may be a great time to revisit the essential components that make barbecues such a beloved summertime tradition.

• Furniture: If you’re planning to host a backyard barbecue this summer, inspect your outdoor furniture for wear and tear, especially if you did not bother to take it out of the garage last summer. A thorough cleaning might be in order.

• Food: Ask guests if they have any food allergies prior to the barbecue. Let it be known that anyone with a food allergy can bring their own foods without fear of offending hosts. If someone does have an allergy, set aside some freshly cleaned dishes for them in the days before the party. Make sure those dishes are not kept alongside other serving dishes so guests have uncontaminated plates and cutlery to use when they arrive. When planning the menu for people without food allergies, don’t forget traditional fare like hamburgers and hot dogs. Such foods might not be fancy, but they will lend a little normalcy to the festivities. And be sure to stock up on supplies for s’mores so everyone can finish the night off with a delicious dessert around the firepit.

• Games: A new cornhole set, some frisbees and even a few extra baseball mitts and baseballs can ensure everyone has something to do in between hamburgers. If you have the room in your backyard, set up a wiffle ball field and encourage willing guests to make teams and play a game of wiffle ball.

• Audio/visual entertainment: An outdoor movie screen or television and some surround sound speakers can allow those interested to watch a game during the barbecue. If yours is more of a musical crowd, some Bluetooth speakers around the backyard set to a relaxing summer playlist can help to establish the perfect backyard barbecue ambiance.