Hello there, fellow home entertaining enthusiasts! Today, I’m diving into the wonderful world of outdoor parties, specifically those glorious backyard BBQs we all love. But how do we make sure everyone, from Great Aunt Mildred to little Timmy, has a fantastic time? I recently chatted with Emily, a seasoned BBQ hostess and queen of intergenerational fun, to get her secrets.
Setting the Scene for Success
Before we even think about games, Emily stressed the importance of creating a welcoming atmosphere. “It’s all about zones,” she explained. “Think about having a quiet area for chatting, a designated kids’ play zone, and, of course, the main event: the BBQ area.” This allows people to mingle comfortably without feeling overwhelmed or excluded. Comfy seating is key – a mix of garden furniture, blankets on the grass, and maybe even some beanbags will cater to different preferences.
Game On: Bridging the Generational Gap
Now, for the fun part: games! Emily’s mantra is inclusivity. “The best games are those that can be easily adapted for different ages and abilities,” she told me. She had so many ideas!
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Bingo with a Twist: Forget boring numbers. Emily creates picture bingo cards for the kids, using images of things they might see at the BBQ – a burger, a tree, a dog, etc. The adults get regular number bingo. Everyone plays together, and the kids love helping spot the pictures.
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Charades: The Classic for a Reason: This one requires zero equipment and can be hilarious. Emily suggests having pre-written charade cards with a mix of easy (e.g., “cat”) and slightly more challenging (e.g., “doing the washing up”) options. To level the playing field, older kids and adults could act out the harder prompts, while the little ones tackle the easier ones.
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Card Games for All: A simple deck of cards opens up a world of possibilities. Emily recommends games like ‘Go Fish’ for the younger crowd and ‘Rummy’ or ‘Crazy Eights’ for the older ones. The trick is to have someone willing to teach and explain the rules patiently. This can be a great way for grandparents to bond with their grandchildren.
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Family Trivia: Test Your Knowledge: This can be as simple or as elaborate as you like. Emily creates themed trivia questions, often related to family history or shared experiences. “It’s amazing how much everyone enjoys reminiscing and learning new things about each other,” she said. You could even have picture rounds using old family photos.
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Garden Games with Minimal Fuss: Think about easy outdoor games like giant Jenga, croquet or boules. They’re easy to play and perfect for any age range. All that’s needed is a patch of grass and a sense of friendly competition!
Food, Glorious Food: Fueling the Fun
No BBQ is complete without delicious food. Emily’s tip? “Keep it simple and cater to different tastes.” Offer a variety of options, including vegetarian and vegan choices. A build-your-own burger bar or salad station is always a hit. Don’t forget to have plenty of snacks and drinks on hand to keep everyone happy and energised throughout the afternoon.
The Orangery Advantage (If You Have One!)
Emily mentioned that having an orangery really elevates her outdoor entertaining. “It provides a beautiful transition space between indoors and out,” she explained. “On a cooler evening, we can retreat to the orangery, light some candles, and continue the party.” It also offers a sheltered space if the weather takes a turn, so the fun doesn’t have to stop.
Making Memories, One BBQ at a Time
My chat with Emily highlighted how a little planning and a focus on inclusivity can transform a simple BBQ into a memorable event for all ages. By creating welcoming spaces, offering adaptable games, and providing a variety of food options, you can ensure that everyone feels valued and has a fantastic time. Remember, it’s about creating opportunities for connection and shared experiences. So, fire up the grill, gather your loved ones, and get ready for some intergenerational fun!
