What could be a better way to show dad he’s special than to fire up the grill, smoke his favorite meats, and host the perfect Father’s Day cookout this summer? As patties flip and the kids munch watermelon, even your dad’s punny jokes will seem funny. With a few helpful cookout tips, you will knock your dad’s beloved burger spatula out of his hand and his worn-out baseball cap right off his head.
Make your shopping list:
When you are trying to decide what foods and sides to serve at your cookout, think about menu items that can be served in different ways so you can save an extra dime. A few versatile foods include:
- Boneless chicken breasts
- Salad mix
- Potato chips
- Fruit
- Pasta
Feel like involving your guests in the food-finding-fun? Ask everyone to bring their favorite side dish, homemade recipe, or dessert to make the cookout the perfect potluck!
Grill in a safe space:
Over the span of just four years following 2014, fire departments went to an average of 8,900 homes due to grill fires. Whether you are using a gas or charcoal grill, they are all designed for outdoor use only. Even if you are outdoors, make sure you are at least 10 feet away from your home or any flammable structures. Here are a couple of safety tips on how to protect your home and yourself from grill fires:
- Grill safety tip 1: keep small children and pets away from the grill area at all times.
- Grill safety tip 2: observe proper ignition protocols to avoid a quick build-up of gas that could lead to an explosion
- Grill safety tip 3: make sure your grill is stable before preparing meat or main dishes to ensure it won’t tip over and cause a fire
Provide fun activities
The last thing you want is a hangry dad or impatient guests on your hands while you cook. Plan to have a few outdoor games for everyone to enjoy while they wait for dinner. This will also keep the children entertained and kept away from the grill. area. Both kids and adults will love these summer favorites:
- Cornhole
- Giant Jenga
- Bottle bowling
- Charades
Download and print out the charade game below to play with guests!
Celebrate dad and his cooking
Show dad some love for his world-famous burgers and appreciate all that he does. Giving your dad something that will put a smile on his face, besides the brisket, will make your cookout extra special. To help you celebrate, we have created Father’s Day gift tags and a grill safety zone sign to make sure your guests can have fun while being safe at your event.
Download and print the Father’s Day gift tags and safety sign below to help you have wonderful times this summer that you will always remember!